walking in the woods

The first weekend we were here, we headed 40 mins. south to the Pennyrile State Resort Park. I had never been to a "resort park" before and was really impressed. Bruce and I always wonder where everyone is when we are hiking in the national park systems. We always seem to have the place to ourselves, and while the peaceful nature of our solitude is delightful, we are concerned at the lack of nature lovers out there. Of course, we feel like perhaps a lack of people means a lack of interest which may lead to a lack of funding for these incredible spaces.

Anyways, I digress. This park was fantastic...firstly, it was free! Secondly, it had a fabulous trail system that would suit families with small children as well as experienced hikers. Thirdly, it offered tons of fun activities, a beautiful golf course, a miniature golf course tucked into the woods, rustic and modern camping, wooded or waterfront cabins, and a large lodge available for rent for family reunions, weddings...what have you.

When we were hiking on the trail we came across this little friend...and Griffin was wondering why we kept telling him he couldn't play on the rocks.

After our walk we stopped into the lodge hoping to I.D. the snake, which didn't happen...but, we did end up having lunch there. Turns out there is a cool restaurant in the lodge with incredible views of the park. The lodge is situated on the edge of a cliff and overlooks a very beautiful lake that even has a swimmin' hole.

Unfortunately, I didn't take any photos of the lake, but I think we are going back there this weekend to take a little walk and hear a bluegrass concert so I will snap a few then. We will host our first visitors this weekend, my dad and step-mom from Knoxville. We are definitely looking forward to having company, as we haven't made friends down here yet. Hope y'all have a great holiday weekend.