Broke camp early, but did not leave the park right away. Decided to visit some of the overlooks that I missed on my bike ride yesterday. Drove the RV back to the main lodge and followed the park road around to the Nature Drive.
First was the Tower Tunnel Overlook. Too foggy. I stayed for a bit to see if I could get a decent shot, but could not see across the valley. I could barely make out the river below as well as the railroad. Moved on down to the Clinchfield Overlook and got to see a bit more, but still very foggy. Took a few pictures and decided I would come back later. It was a pretty good climb out but I was pretty sure it would be worth it. The last stop was the Stateline Overlook and it was a bit clearer. You can see Kentucky from here, as well as the railroad, rivers and Highway 80.
Drove the loop back around and stopped at the lodge for a light breakfast. Took the kitchen about 30 minutes to figure out that they were all out of EggBeaters. This is not rocket surgery kids. The biscuits were good though.
I went back to Clinchfield overlook and it was definitely worth the return trip. The fog had cleared and just as I was climbing down the hill I heard a train coming into the tunnel. Perfect timing. Lots of good photo opportunities of the train, the river below, rock outcroppings and even a self portrait.
After enjoying the peaceful view for a bit I moved on to Damascus by way of McClure and more importantly, Nora. Dad and many of his siblings were born and grew up here. I stopped for shots of the Clinchfield viaduct, and Granny Long’s old place. Then continued to move south to Damascus.
Arrived in town and found that the RV Park I had intended to use was full up, but I moved on to the edge of town and found me a good campsite at the Laurel Creek RV Park. Tomorrow I head out to the Creeper Trail.