The Creeper....

Our community group (from GFC) had a field trip this past weekend....to ride the Creeper Trail!  Unfortunately, there were a few of our group (Terry, Tim and Becky) who couldn't make the trip and we really missed them, but wanted to make sure they were able to be a part of our day, even if it is vicariously! 

We met at Damascus, VA at 8:30 a.m.  Yes, you heard that right!  For most of us, it meant that we had to leave our homes about 7 a.m.   Can you say, "Ugh"?  But it was more than worth it.  It was a beautiful day, and it was an experience we won't forget!

The ride started at White Top, in the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area.  Actually, our ride via van on a twisting two-lane road started at Damascus, but the 17 miles of bike trail started at White Top.

The Creeper Trail is NOT named after the vine the Virginia Creeper, but rather after the train that used to traverse these former railroad tracks.....so named because it was "creeping" as it ascended the mountain.  Since we will be going downhill, I don't think we will be creeping....but, rather, will have to make good use of our brakes to keep from "flying"!

 

After double checking that our bikes (mostly rentals) were all set to go, we headed out.  Tony (on the left) has ridden the trail too many times to count, but this was the first in a long time due to some medical issues.  Willie and I had both ridden the trail before, but it was a new experience for Jeff, Cheryl and Ralph.  Yep....I think we're all ready to go. Let's ride!!

Just one of the many bridges we crossed...

And, of course, we HAD to take advantage of the opportunity to stop and check out the scenery, which was always beautiful!

Our first real stop was at a Christmas tree farm just off the side of the trail...

 I think Cheryl might be scouting a Christmas tree for this year...

...and maybe Willie and Jeff are discussing the feasibility of getting one of these trees?

 You'll have to excuse me for a minute while I take in the little details around me....

And now back to our group.....

 Tony was so glad to finally be back on the Creeper Trail....

As we approached the old Green Cove train station, we passed through more picturesque settings....

 

My hubby....

Yes, dear, it IS Memorial Day weekend, but I hope you're not going to put your hand over your heart every time we stop!  LOL!  But isn't he one good-looking dude?

Everywhere we looked there was beauty to behold....

As we pedaled into one clearing these flowers seemed to be everywhere.....

Unfortunately, it was here that one of our number, Ralph, took quite a spill in an effort to get the best angle for a photo.  Thankfully, he was NOT seriously injured.

At the same clearing we saw this run-down building which had once been a B&B....probably a B&B for rodents now!

For a big part of the distance, the trail followed alongside this lovely stream....I just love the sounds of "babbling brooks"! 

 

We didn't see much wildlife, but we did see this snake sunning himself on the edge of one of the trestles.

 And then we made our way down to this beautiful waterfall....

Below still another trestle, we saw quite a few butterflies....from up on the trestle we couldn't see what they were attracted to, but when I got down to the water's edge, it was easy to see that they were enjoying the salt from these peanut shells someone had left behind.

 

Ralph wasn't the only one to take a spill....I took a spill getting on the bike one time (where HAS my balance gone in my more mature years) and another "sit-down" getting off the bike near the end of our ride.  But all in all, it was a safe and wonderful day enjoyed by all.  I don't know about everyone else, but I'm ready to go again!

So now I'll leave you with one last shot of some of the handiwork of God that we found ourselves surrounded by....