There are moments on the Blue Ridge Parkway when time feels suspended — when the light hits just right, the fog rolls in low and soft, and the ridges seem to lean in and listen. It was in one of those moments, at Thunderstruck Overlook, that I crossed paths with two riders who looked like they had just stepped out of a country song. Dressed in wedding attire, leaning against … [Read more...] about A ride to remember: Nicki & Aaron’s Blue Ridge elopement
Blue Ridge Parkway
Exploring southwest Virginia’s rock churches
Bob Childress was on a mission from God. Robert Walter Childress, born in 1890 in a remote area of Southwest Virginia near Ararat, deplored what he saw in his neighbors while he was growing up, thinking them to be untamed, uneducated and violent country people. After a brief career in law enforcement, he dedicated his life’s work to conveying civility through … [Read more...] about Exploring southwest Virginia’s rock churches
Saddle Up: Cataloochee Ranch Rides Again
Meandering up Fie Top Road in Maggie Valley, North Carolina, just as it seems you may eventually ride off the edge of the earth, you emerge atop a mountain ridge, a large rustic lodge appearing in the distance — the Cataloochee Ranch. “The ranch has an amazing history and it’s always had this unique identity,” said Annie Colquitt. “It’s this special place in Haywood County and … [Read more...] about Saddle Up: Cataloochee Ranch Rides Again
Exploring Elkin: From Mill Town to Motorcycling Mecca
Nestled on the banks of the serene Yadkin River, the town of Elkin resembles many small North Carolina towns: a main street lined with older buildings, a movie theater, a bank, various shops. One of the joys of motorcycling is discovering these time-capsule towns. It’s even more joyous to see them thriving in the 21st century. “About eight years ago, we were stagnant. The mill … [Read more...] about Exploring Elkin: From Mill Town to Motorcycling Mecca
The Blue Ridge Mountains: Of what was and shall ever be
North Carolina is a collection of wonderful regions and places, from the mountains to the sea. Each is different of course, with its own geography to be savored on two wheels. It is remarkably easy to avoid being trapped on highways and allow oneself to be consumed by the beauty of the byways. Along the way, the people are terrific as well, with different traditions and foods … [Read more...] about The Blue Ridge Mountains: Of what was and shall ever be
