Flag Rock

Today we hiked some trails in the Flag Rock area, which the city of Norton is working to improve and expand.  Katie Dunn of the city of Norton volunteered to join us on the hike and show us around, and of course, make sure we found all of our turns.  Her husband, Wally Smith, UVA- Wise joined us too.  It was a little wet from recent rains, but everything was lush and green, and the salamanders were out in force enjoying the damp conditions.

The 5 mile loop starts at Upper Norton Reservoir and loops around, runs along an old forest road roadbed, and makes its way back to the reservoir.  The hike looped through several areas of varying foliage and conditions, meandered by interesting rock formations, and crossed a small stream, which made for an interesting hike.  We exchanged lots of trail and hike information with Wally and Katie as we hiked through the forest.  It was good to see the nicely marked trails and even more trails being installed.  We would like to return, perhaps in late fall or even winter, when the foliage doesn't obscure the views as much.