This area of the country is beginning to show fall colors so we are spending more time doing short hikes to enjoy this novelty, well novelty for us anyway. Although the reds and yellows are just starting to appear, the variations of green are amazing. I didn’t remember that as the initial stage.
Like yesterday, our first stop is about an hour into the day, a good time to stretch the legs. It's a River Walk in Danville, Virginia. What a wonderful way to start a day. This could become addictive. We definitely didn't hike the entire 12 mile trail. Just a short morning leg-stretcher works.
Another hour drive and we make a quick stop in Lynchburg, Virginia. This could be an interesting city to explore more in the future. Lynchburg has somewhat of a notorious history when researching the city online. Today, it has evolved into a cultural spot known for arts, live music and multiple parks and gardens. We made two quick stops here. The first: Monument Terrace, which dates back to the 1880s. There are 139 steps that lead to the Museum housed in the Old Court House. I am proud to share that I went all the way down the steps AND ran back up the steps!
Several monuments dot the surrounding terraces and gardens paying tribute to various wars. Of course, climbing all those steps warrants a stop at a local coffee shop, Mission House, before we leave town.
The major stop of the day is Thomas Jefferson's Monticello Estate. In our trips to the D.C. area, we have enjoyed Colonial Williamsburg, toured the metro area monuments, stopped in a couple Smithsonian and other museums, the Capitol, etc. Monticello has eluded us, but not this time. We took a wonderful guided tour through the property. Oh the stories. The history. Our guide shared that 90% of the home is original including the wood floor in the parlor, the chess game and several shelves of books!
Like the Biltmore, the gardens of the estate are lush and colorful. Many unique and stately trees.
The eastern U.S. is packed-full of historical spots. So much to learn and cherish. Can you guess our destination tomorrow?
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