Roaring Creek

5.18.13   Roaring Creek  It was a bit damp today.  It rained on us most of the first half of the hike, but the rain was very light.  There were 11 of us on this hike.  The only wildlife we say were a couple of turtles.  The initial part of this hike is all uphill, but not too bad if you are in shape.  Unfortunately, since it was so overcast, it was difficult to show a great deal of color in the photos.  I did shoot some photos of some of the mosses and fungi that were along side of the trail.  On the way back down, we found the most beautiful Rhododendron.  It was bright purple and just starting to open (see pictures).  The new section of the trail offers a wonderful overlook, but unfortunately it was completely cover by clouds.  I would rate this hike as moderate.  The total distance of the hike was about 8.5 miles.  If you would like to see a few pictures, click on the Roaring Creek Tab above.