Grandfather Mountain

Grandfather Mountain is a few hours away, but the drive was nice (if you take the Blue Ridge Parkway), and we will definitely go back before we move. Next time we'll make sure that Dan can make it. There is also a mini-zoo there with bears, deer, otters, cougars (Go BYU!), and eagles (Go USA!). I don't have any pictures of that because my camera died, but the kids loved it. They also have picnic benches and a candy/fudge shop. There is a little museum that is pretty pointless, but has clean bathrooms. :) It was a perfect day.

This is the view from the beginning of our drive up the mountain. We actually didn't have to do any hiking, but you can if you want to. The picture at the top of the post is taken from the parking lot.
Elena said, "I want to stop the car and take a picture with my favorite rock!" It's called Split Rock and I'm standing under the other half.

This is after we crossed the Mile High Swinging Bridge. Behind us is the gift shop where they sell yummy ice cream.

Right after crossing the bridge: It is a little intimidating because there are no guardrails or anything once you go up those steps. That's why I took one kid at a time. The other one would wait right here with Abuelita.
Some photos of the view:
The full 360 from the top of Grandfather Mountain:

God is so good to give us these glimpses of perfection. It is gorgeous there!