Travel Chaotically! - Shenandoah and salamander sushi?????

On our last day of hiking in Shenandoah, we decided to take Rose River Loop (about 3.5 miles) with a little detour to see Dark Hollow Falls.

Often the forest in Shenandoah is much more open than it is in the Smokies.  Aren't the ferns pretty?

Hard to believe, but this morning was cool enough to warrant a jacket!!!

On leaving Dark Hollow Falls, we rejoined the Rose River Trail, following it along the bank for some time.  After a bit, as the trail began to rise above, though still alongside the river, I heard weird clanking noises!!  Like a slamming car door, but with a higher pitch.  In the middle of the woods???? Then, I looked down....

Mr. Bear was busily looking under rocks for his lunch!!! Slurping away!
No wonder red salamanders are hard to find!

How Bentie looks after seeing a bear!!!

My travel adventures always start me thinking...  This quote Ruthie shared with me, captures a piece of that pondering perfectly:

Why do  you go away?  So that you can come back. So that you can see the place you came from with new eyes and extra colors.                     ~  Terry Pratchett,  A Hat Full of Sky.

Thanks for sharing your peace and incredible beauty, Shenandoah.  I will remember it always for itself and for enhancing the depth of my understanding and appreciation for walks in "my" woods.  Love, les