A South Mountain Day

It's hard to believe that The Fuzz has been back from the coast for 3 weeks already.  But as they say "When you're over the hill, you pick up speed."

Well, be that as it may...

The Fuzz and His sweetie felt like it was time to get away for a few hours in the mountains.  They are fortunate to live within a short drive to South Mountains State Park- just over the county line.

This was a favorite destination for years.  Most summer vacations were spent  here at the Shinny Creek campsite.

The place is still here, although a bit fancier these days.

The campground is kinda small by some standards-

only 4 campsites strung out along the creek.

But the water is clean and cold.

And although it is not encouraged, The Fuzz has always found it to be delicious!

But this was not a camping trip, so after a brief rest, The Fuzz and His Sweetie kept on moving up the Shinny Trail.

The Fuzz couldn't help getting a few pix along the way.

After following the creek for quite a ways, this Trail makes a turn and starts up a rocky spur to the crest of the mountain.

It can get a little steep in places.

But there are always things to enjoy along the way.

And of course there is a nice view from up there.

This is where the hawks do their thing.

And up here one is on their level, kinda personal.

This is one place were one can even have a "birds eye view" of the bird!

But you might have to be quick about it.

Well, it was nice but it was time to head on down the trail....

Wobbly legs and all.

It was a pleasant break.

Here in the Old North State we are blessed with a coast...

And mountains-

And everything between.