Signs of spring have been showing themselves in a cyclical fashion here in Knoxville for the last several weeks, from the daily chance of rain to blooming Dogwoods, one can feel the shift in seasons.
This is perhaps my favorite change in seasons, finally getting reprieve from the blustering cold and watching the beauty in our area thaw out, wake up, and bloom in full glory.
Of course, in East Tennessee there is no better place to watch this phenomenon that in the Great Smoky Mountains, and over the past week I hiked the Chimney Tops and Grotto Falls to get contrasting panoramas.
The Chimney Tops is my favorite hike in the Smokies. I consider the two-mile trek uphill one of the best tests of endurance that doesn't require an overnight pack. The clouds rolled over the neighboring mountains when I reached the summit, and the skyline was polarized black and blue across the horizon. The wind was extremely strong, and I felt as if the gale would be enough to throw me off of the rocky peak as I climbed.
Luckily, I was not blown off of the mountain, and the rain held off until I was safely in the confines of my car before it fell.
Grotto Falls was more of a leisurely stroll in comparison, being a beautiful day to hike an easy 1.4 miles.
The falls were filled with families showing marvelling children the waterfall flowing gently down a staircase of ledges.
Watching the rebirth of greenery always helps put one's own life in perspective, and the coming of Spring is always synonomus with new life. I encourage any and all to spend some time in the mountains during this temperate time of the year. Perhaps watching everything blossom will entice you to do the same.
Thursday, April 2, 2009
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
