I learned that when a stream (like this one) has green growth on the rocks and the bottom, it is because it is spring-fed - constant temperature and flow. I also learned that I should never never never drink any water directly from any stream, no matter how clean "I think it is". In response to Wendy's question, however, it is perfectly safe to swim in the streams (parasites enter through the digestive system, not skin contact [even private parts]).
Although we both love the rushing water and waterfalls, Wendy also took many pictures of little flowers. If you like that sort of thing, please give her a call.
Back at the Homestead we had lunch at the Casino, and then Wendy went for a swim/dip in the "healing waters" of The Jefferson Pools. I had not gotten enough of "the great outdoors", so I went for a 4.6 mile hike up Deerlick Trail (830 elevation up to the ridge, and then back down):
The view from the hotel door right behind me - Casino lunch is the building down on the left, and the trail will go along the top of the far ridge
Near the ridge, looking back down the trail:
Turn around, and look up to the point:
Pretty nice view!!
Um, our guide Brian never said ANYTHING about dealing with BEARS! As I was going along the ridge, one crossed the path pretty far ahead of me and just flew through the woods. I thought that was all, but going down down the switchbacks, I saw Mom (black spot in the middle of the photo) with 2 little cubs making her way up the other side of the gorge (going AWAY from me).
I then saw 2 white-tail deer bound off into the woods, up the mountain.
And a beautiful end to the afternoon with a swim in the Main Pool:
Off to Natural Bridge, VA tomorrow, then up the Blue Ridge Parkway, and on into Charlottesville!
