Tuesday, June 19, 2018

An Amazing Free Alternative to Chimney Rock



If you frequently read our blog posts,  you may recall a recent entry entitled “8 Tranquil Spots not to Miss in North Carolina”.   This post featured some amazing outdoor experiences in and around the Asheville area.   On this same trip, we made a startling new discovery while pondering whether or not to visit the more touristy Chimney Rock attraction, known to so many.  It is no secret that our Frugal Family Travelers often get excited when we find a new place “off the beaten path”.  So, it was ultimately a pretty easy decision in the end to visit this spot! 

“Jump Off Rock” in Laurel Falls, NC became the target of our next adventure!  We drove up steep winding roads roads,  through the beautiful Laurel Falls neighborhood and ultimately made it to the top of the mountain with ease.   We parked the car and were pleasantly surprised to learn that the overlook was just a short distance away. 

At 3,025 ft., the panoramic views from “Jump Off Rock” are truly some of the best you will find while traveling the Blue Ridge Parkway.   Not only did we soak up the views but enjoyed a nice picnic lunch while trying to keep the blanket from sailing away from frequent gusts of wind.  After our picnic, we explored the three hiking trails available.  The trails were clearly marked and the signage explained the approximate hike times and difficulty ratings.  The trails  were also well maintained with diverse features which provided opportunities for discovery.  Overall, our experience here was one we will never forget.   Standing on “Jump Off Rock” to behold the beautiful mountain scenery, while at the same  time experiening the wind on our faces, was an experience that mere words can not adequately express.  So, if you find yourself in this area, add it to your travel itinerary.   You won’t be disappointed!  


Cost: Free

Note: Pack a pick basket and blanket!  Be prepared to enjoy the breeze and the amazing panoramic views!  The ease of access would make this an excellent point of interest for those traveling with small children as well as those with limited mobility. 



























Disclaimer:
All content provided on Frugal Family Travelers blog is for informational purposes only. The owners of this blog make no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information on this site or found by following any link on this site.  The owners of Frugal Family Travelers blog do not share personal information with third-parties and are not responsible for the republishing of the content found on this blog on other Web sites or media without permission.  As with all travel, operating days, times, costs, etc., should be verified prior to departure.

Saturday, June 9, 2018

Take a Walk on the Wild Side!



Recently, our Frugal Family Travelers did a little exploring on the Northshore just outside of  New Orleans.    We discovered the Southeast Louisiana National Wildlife Headquarters.  Positioned on the bayou in Lacombe, Louisiana, the headquarters is located on the grounds of a former Catholic Retreat Center.    We spent our morning exploring the hiking trails and discovered many picturesque views of the bayou, as well as numerous fountains and springs.   The grounds were teeming with wildlife of all kinds.  Azalea and Camellia are abundant on the property and would therefore make this a great a place to visit again while in bloom.  The headquarters also has a wildlife museum with all sorts of interactive exhibits and videos which showcase the diverse ecosystem of the refuge.     It is no surprise why this place was chosen as the headquarters for the refuge.  Sadly, Frugal Family Travelers find that many of these types of places are underutilized by the public, who seem to be seeking more fast paced activities.   “Take a Walk in the Wild Side” and plan a visit here!   You won’t be sorry!


Directions:

61389 LA-434, Lacombe, LA 70445


Cost:   Free


Note:   Pack bug spray and sunscreen!   Don't forget pack a picnic lunch!   This is a great place for a picnic!  

Combine this with other hiking opportunities, just a short drive away, to creat a full day of adventure.... click link below for details:

Big Branch Marsh Hiking























Disclaimer:
All content provided on Frugal Family Travelers blog is for informational purposes only. The owners of this blog make no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information on this site or found by following any link on this site.  The owners of Frugal Family Travelers blog do not share personal information with third-parties and are not responsible for the republishing of the content found on this blog on other Web sites or media without permission.  As with all travel, operating days, times, costs, etc., should be verified prior to departure.