Tonight I am settling down in beautiful Elk Banner North Carolina. Here is a recap of the last couple days now that Turbo has made himself at home at our AIRBB after last nights camping shenanigans.
Friday was my last day at the local Honda Dealership, it was a bitter sweet three months. Saturday I built my bed platform for my RAV4. Sunday I packed for a road trip and Monday 5am I’m on the road, destination Appalachian Mountains.
Not going to lie, I have been feeling a bit off lately. Not sure to blame it on work, moving back to Wisconsin, weather, worrying about winter preparation, missing my favorite activities or all of the above. Maybe call it a quarter life crisis, but I’m hoping with the new job I’ll find myself again. I’ll finally be able to join a gym again and no more 10-11 hour days in chaotic customer service. Something I’ve been seeking for approximately 8 years.
First Night Camping Spot Acquired
After 12 hours of driving, we found a really cool spot to camp in Kentucky near Red River Gorge, was a beautiful peaceful night. Minus the dog attacking my brand new drone (RIP) and splitting his nose open from the wings. Our peaceful evening turned into a bloody disaster. My drone, not so much. Do you know how much dog bleeds from their nose when its cut only a little? It’s a LOT, but we managed with some towels and ice. Shortly after he decided he wanted to play with firewood and kept reopening his wound, so we decided to call it an early night. I set up the decoy tent and we slept in the Rav4.
The following morning, I woke up bright and early before the sun came up and started packing up. Of course, I did not skip the most important meal of the day, also my favorite meal. BREAKFAST! Something light and easy, my go too banana and oat meal.
I sit and listen to the birds, the wind ever so slightly flowing through the leaves, such a peaceful morning just beginning. Time to head out and find a hike, lets get the heart pumping before we make our way out to North Carolina.
Planning The Next Couple Days
I have decided to get an AIRBB for the next two days as I plan to hike Grandfather Mountain in which unfortunately Turbo was not equipped with thumbs to climb this hike and he needs a place to stay the day. I never thought I would be so grateful for an AIRBB, the hosts were the most amazing people I have ever met. Animal lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, adrenaline junkies, loving and caring family people. I decided to have dinner with them, share life stories, have a beer and even a bon fire. I felt right at home away from home, plus the view wasn’t bad.
Exploring Grandfather Mountain and Banner Elk
I could not have timed this more perfectly. The weather, the colors, stunning.
I drove up the mountain, parked the car and headed to a few iconic spots. One being the Mile High Swinging Bridge man, the views!
Next up, the Grandfather Trail, the trail I came down here to do. How exciting! This short but strenuous hike is not for the faint of heart, my fear of ladders was put up for the test but the view from the top is worth it.
Last But Not Least
If you are going to be over here you MUST check out the Blue Ridge Parkway, I could not be more grateful for this beautiful October day.
As I get back to my vehicle, turn on my gangster rap music and head back into town. I am grateful. It’s time for some food. The small town of Banner Elk has got to be the cutest small town I’ve found to date. Super clean, welcoming, so many options to explore and even dog friendly outdoor bars. I couldn’t resist.
Other Cool Spots Near Banner Elk
Linville & Linville Falls: This is where Grandfather Mountain is, but also holds epic hikes to find waterfalls. Long hikes, short hikes, you name it.
Blowing Rock: Museums, waterfalls, good food, hiking, skiing, ziplines and more. Great welcoming tourists town that still offers that small town charm!
This state is awesome.
North Carolina has been so amazing, I have decided to stay a tad bit longer. Heading out in the morning to Hickory to visit some family! Just in time for October fest. Cheers!