The family went up into the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia to Skyline Drive last weekend to see the fall colors. But we only drove through, we didn't stop. So this weekend, my son found a short trail to go for a walk today. Skyline Drive parallels the Appalachian Trail, so we were able to walk this famous trail, and look down into the Shenandoah Valley. Skyline Drive and the overlooks were built during the depression by the Civilian Conservation Corps. For those history buffs, the Shenandoah was originally settled by Scots and Scotch-Irish back when America was still a colony. The valley also played a major role in the American Civil War. In fact, we saw a sign that said General Stonewall Jackson brought his 25,000 man army over the Blue Ridge in 1862. As you will see from some of the pictures, this was no small feat.

My son and I standing on one of the overlooks looking into the Shenandoah Valley.






Skyline Drive






My son on the Appalachian Trail






This gives you an idea how high up the trail is






We weren't alone on the trail. If you look close in the middle you can see the black bear that we came upon. Not sure who was more scared, him or us.