Pisgah National Forest is a confluence of mountain peaks, rivers, waterfalls, and scenic drives with an abundance of hiking and camping for the most adventurous. Largely a hardwood forest it comprises over 500,000 acres of some of the most scenic views on the east coast. Located on the eastern slopes of the Appalachian Mountains it was the first tract of land purchased under the new land management laws of 1911. In turn, it led to the creation of national forests in eastern United States. Pisgah is also home of the First School of Forestry and is preserved in the Cradle of Forestry in America historic site located in the park. It boasts of two of the first wilderness areas in the east.
After hiking to the waterfalls I decided to take a drive and check out the surrounding national forests and preserves. I headed down the Blue Ridge Parkway with Marie looking to satisfy my daily fix for adventure. Stopping at numerous scenic views and overlooks was nice but just not enough. As we approached Pisgah National Forest we decided to drive in and check it out, although all the facilities were closed for the winter.
Approaching what appeared to be an abandoned town of cabins hidden amongst the hardwoods we pulled into a dirt road and parked. Fences, gates, and buildings with padlocks were of course all closed for the winter. Throwing caution to the wind, if you will, we immediatly climbed the fence before we were seen. Unbeknownst to us we had broken into The Cradle of Forestry In America historic site. The cabins we'd seen earliar were the original village of first forestry school and was buried deep in the Pisgah forest. The sleeping cabins, commissary, and meeting room were in good shape. Connecting the village buildings were meandering walkways, one leading to the village outhouse. Nice to know, even back then, there are facilities when you need them.
REST TIME !!!
Oh you blend.
I could do this.
Cowgirl
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