A hike at Grandfather Mountain

In honor of my sons' Grandfather, (who graciously took them to an outdoor magic show in heat advisory weather today) I've decided to post some pictures from our weekend trip to Grandfather Mountain in western North Carolina.

Grandfather Mountain holds loads of awe inspiring views; a nature park with opportunities to see and learn about the native animals; and a mile high swinging bridge (a personal favorite of our little ones.)

Won't you join me on a beautiful hike through Grandfather Mountain park? (I decided to hold the commentary so you can enjoy the peaceful nature sounds.)

Grandfather Mountian named for the old man profile see above.

Jars of homemade jelly were lined up right along the main scenic highway

Swinging Bridge Facts (from Grandfather Mountain Website)

The Mile High Swinging Bridge was built to give visitors easy access to the breath-taking view from Grandfather Mountain's Linville Peak.

The 228-foot suspension bridge spans an 80-foot chasm at more than one mile in elevation. Surveys show that the journey to the other side is always considered the highlight of a trip to Grandfather Mountain.

The term "mile high" refers to the structure's elevation above sea level (5,280 feet)
The term "swinging" refers to the fact that suspension bridges are free to sway.

Happy Fourth of July! - A tour of Old Salem, NC

On this historic day in America, I want to take you to a small town in North Carolina that still looks much like it did over 200 year ago!

 Original 13 colonies flag outside Single Brothers House.

Old Salem, NC celebrated its first (documented) Independence day in 1783. 

Construction of the town first began in 1766 by members of the Moravian Church, an early Protestant denomination. 

Moravian Church

Several of the buildings still appear as they did at the time of their construction. 

G. Schrote Home 

House on Main St.

Historical Old Salem Homes on South Main St.

Miksch House

Adam Butner (best known as operator of Salem Tavern) began in Old Salem as a hatter.

 A. Butner Hat Shop 1825

The Winkler family ran the bakery in town for 30 years. The bakery is still open to purchase bread and other treats.

C. Winkler's Bakery

The Boy's School was erected in 1794 to house and operate as a school for boys in Salem. This Old Salem landmark continued to run into the 20th century.

 The Boy's School (from rear)

If you're ever near Winston-Salem, NC, Old Salem is a definite must see. A small bakery and ice cream shop serve scrumptious edibles. I highly recommend the cake batter flavored ice cream. Yummy!

There is also a garden shop, some gift shops and museums.

Happy Independence Day America!