Friday, September 28, 2012

Blue Ridge Parkway: Humpback Rock Farm slips into fall

The colors of fall have begun settling on Humpback Rock Farm at milepost 5.8 along the Blue Ridge Parkway. The nineteenth-century mountain farm located just south of Afton is made up of a rustic cabin, barn, hen house, spring house, and other outbuildings typical of a time from the past. Mr. Scarecrow watches over the last of fruits and vegetables in the garden as days shorten and temperatures drop.

During October, every weekend will feature costumed historical interpreters and musical entertainment. On crisp autumn days,  the fire in the cabin will warm chilly visitors while cooking demonstrations take place, or sit on a split-log bench under the chestnut tree and enjoy lively, toe-tapping mountain music from local artisans. Stroll along the self-guided trail with signs along the way that explain the buildings and crafts of the time.

Friday the colors of fall could be seen at the farm and along the Parkway. There's a special feeling in the mountains at this time of year especially on days when there are few others around so it's easy to imagine the feeling of living in such isolation.

On a rainy day, the well-known Humpback Rock that looms over the farm could not be seen behind the fog. With temperatures in the 60s, it was a good day to hike some of the trails and take in the beauty of the mountains.

Photos by Lynn R. Mitchell
September 28, 2012

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