Carver's Gap and Rhododendron Gardens

We decided to visit the famed Rhododendron Gardens of Roan Mountain in the middle of the week to avoid the crowds.  We settled on Wednesday, June 20th and left Dot at 8:00.  Upon arrival around 10, we were surprised to find droves of people and a steady stream still descending upon the Carver's Gap parking area.  Apparently more people were interested in hiking on the balds than viewing the gardens.  There were hiking clubs from all around.  We joined the lines of people and took in some views from Round Bald.  There were still a few blooms on the balds to enjoy.

We headed back to the parking area and drove up to the Rhododendron Gardens.  We were told that heavy rains had knocked off a lot of the blooms but there were many left to enjoy.  Unfortunately, a low hanging cloud kept us from enjoying the overlooks.  And a cool breeze caused us to change our picnic venue further down the mountain at Roan Mountain State park.  We explored around the area and hike the Cloudland nature loop.

the gardens

Round Bald

Panther Creek State Park

We headed west this Saturday instead of the usual east or south for our hike.  Our destination was Panther Creek State Park near Morristown, Tennessee.  It is a scenic park that sits alongside Lake Cherokee.  We stopped at the visitor center for maps and recommendations, and settled on doing the loop that overlooks the lake when you reach the top.  It is called Lookout Point loop.  We also took a spur trail to the lake's edge, and had a break on a well positioned log.  Our total mileage was nearly 3 miles.  As we returned to the beginning of the loop, the heat and humidity increased, so lunch on a shaded picnic table was a nice reprieve.  It was a good day, and a good park.  There are several trails in the park, so a return trip is probable.

Overlook from the trail

Spur trail to water's edge.  We all sat on this log for a snack/break

Geese and other birds were abundant

Kingdom Come State Park

Our Memorial Day hike was at Kingdom Come State Park in Cumberland, Kentucky.  Our group did some short hikes.  One was to Raven Rock.  This park mostly has shorter trails, but can be combined for longer hikes.  We also had picnic lunch and rented some pedal boats while we were there.