Much to my surprise we've had a good fall color season. I was
sure that the drought (now four years old) and the warm temperatures
would make for a late, short season. I was right about the timing,
I think that right around October 26th was just about as good
as it will get this year. That is about two weeks late as compared
to most years. Since I spent the 26th on a trip to the Nantahala
Gorge, I found the timing to be great. I took some folks from
Volvo to Tellico Gap and we walked north on the Appalachian Trail.
Despite getting the bus semi-stuck on a hairpin turn we all survived
and had a good time.
The leaf color is the big thing happening this month, at least
for the next week or two, and possibly even until Thanksgiving.
I can't remember when we've had color this late in the year.
Some of the more noticeable colors are found in the maples,
hickories, and
sourwoods. Individually
these are gorgeous, but when seen as part of a large picture
they can combine to be truly breathtaking.
The Blue Ridge Parkway in autumn offers a chance to see this
area at is most attractive. From lovely vistas
to postcard-like turns
in the road, a drive along the parkway is something special.
And when you add a waterfall
in the distance it becomes breathtakingly beautiful.
In addition to the fall color we can look forward to a celestial
show on the night of November 18th. The Leonid Meteors are expected
to be equal to, if not more spectacular than last year. To learn
more about this phenomenon check out this month's trivia.
