Some roads Closed in the GSMNP begining Monday November 7th

Our friends at the Great Smoky Mountains National Park have announced temporary, single-lane closures along the southbound lanes of the Spur (US 441), the Gatlinburg Bypass, and Cherokee Orchard Road beginning Monday, November 6 through Friday, November 17.
This closure is being done during the removal of trees along the roadways.
In addition, roadside brushing work will take place during the same time period along the Foothills Parkway East between Cosby, TN and Interstate 40.

The roadways will remain open, but motorists should expect single-lane closures during daylight hours from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. No work will be allowed on weekends from 6:00 p.m. on Friday through Sunday evening. 

For more information about temporary road closures, please visit the park website at site at https://www.nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisit/temproadclose.htm or follow SmokiesRoadsNPS on Twitter.

Rich Mountain continues to give!

This is a regular hike of mine for several reasons.  The physical challenge if you keep up a steady pace.  The potential viewing of wildlife, especially in the late summer, early fall, and, like much of this region of the country, the fall colors.

 Today the trail was quiet after a rain shower and no one was on the trail. Though there were lots and lots of vehicles coming out of Cades Cove! The rain was light when I began yet it quit all together soon after I started and I was given the opportunity to see a bunch of birds, squirrels and chipmunks gathering food, some up close as I hiked.
There was some fresh sign of bears, but saw none.  Next time I think I'll do the loop.

Rio Del Mar (Northern Callifornia)

On a short retreat to visit friends and family. The Mysterious one and I got to walk in the pacific; the water was cold, and hike a short bit in a state forest known as "The Forest of Nisene Marks".

And a couple of awesome sunsets!