Wednesday, October 30, 2013

High Falls State Park, Georgia

October of 2013 we visited High Falls State Park, Georgia. All I can say is - absolutely gorgeous! A must visit ~ be sure to hike the falls!
Site 16 at High Falls State Park, GA

Before arriving at High Falls State Park I was a bit nervous. There weren't many photos on line and it didn't appear that there was much to do around the park or any plant based restaurants to try....but I was wrong!

Site 16 at High Falls State Park, GA
We got in a bit late and got camp set up - right on the stream.  The leaves were just prior to turning but a few of them were showing their true colors.

High Falls State Park, GA
I love the hills and tall trees around the campground with semi-secluded spots that invite friendly chatting but are large and private enough to hunker down around the fire.

Chilly!
The weather was chilly for us Floridians so we were excited to bundle up!

Going for a walk at High Falls State Park, GA
Lots of walks were taking up and down the hills - just for fun. We don't have such things in North Florida.

Dauset Animal Preserve near High Falls State Park, GA
Dauset Trails is a must-see.  It is about 10 minutes from the park and they care for sick or injured animals that can not be released back to the wild.  The intention is to educate children and increase awareness. The staff was so helpful and inviting.

Dauset Animal Preserve near High Falls State Park, GA
Even the grounds are worth the trip just to walk around.  The land was placed in to a trust by a wealthy entrepreneur who loved the pristine environment and animals that inhabit it.

Going to check out the black bear at Dauset Animal Preserve near High Falls State Park, GA
Not only are there injured animals being cared for, there is also a reptile room and farm animals.  The cost is free except for a donation!

High Falls State Park, GA
Before the falls there is a large dam and lake with water sports available in the summer.  

High Falls State Park, GA
We couldn't wait to start hiking!

High Falls State Park, GA
There are both stairs and a hiking path for you to take your pick!

High Falls State Park, GA

High Falls State Park, GA

High Falls State Park, GA
Don't forget to look up at the beautiful foliage at High Falls State Park!

High Falls State Park, GA
The mist off the stream is just gorgeous in the October mornings.

High Falls State Park, GA
One wonderful surprise was that the Fried Green Tomato Festival was going on that weekend! Little did we know the movie Fried Green Tomatoes was filmed about 25 minutes away in the quaint little town of Juliette. The townsfolk were obviously a close knit group and were so welcoming. We enjoyed walking around, looking at crafts and enjoying perfectly fried green tomatoes. YUM.

Fried Green Tomato Festival, Juliette

Fried Green Tomato Festival, Juliette
Live music in the little town of Juliette

Fried Green Tomato Festival, Juliette
We walked around the Whistle Stop Trading Post - actually shown in the movie!

Fried Green Tomato Festival, Juliette
Fried Green Tomato Festival, Juliette
And here is the famous Whistle Stop Cafe with plant based menu items! My only regret is that I didn't go in and get the fried green tomato salad. Next time!

 Whistle Stop Cafe at Fried Green Tomato Festival, Juliette
Some local ladies baked cakes to win money for charities. My daughter took her chance at the "cake walk" game.
Cake Walk at Fried Green Tomato Festival, Juliette
I leave you with some panoramic shots of the falls.
Enjoy!

High Falls State Park

High Falls State Park

High Falls State Park

High Falls State Park

Friday, September 13, 2013

Long Key State Park ~ Post Labor Day Trip

Our recent trip to Long Key State Park was a momentous occasion.  My hubby camped with no TV or easy access to watch football for an entire week.
And enjoyed every minute! 
Site 19 at Long Key State Park

Site 19 at Long Key State Park

The beach at low tide - Long Key

Gorgeous Beach at Long Key

Heading over to Lorelei for our first dinner. It was HOT out!

Gorgeous views at Lorelei


Chris

Me!

View from our campsite at Long Key State Park

Morning Coffee at Long Key State Park

Gorgeous tree at campsite - Long Key State Park


Awesome History of Diving Museum ~ Islamorada
History of Diving Museum ~ Islamorada

Diving Deep at History of Diving Museum ~ Islamorada

History of Diving Museum ~ Islamorada

Watch out for the lobsters in Islamorada ~ they're big!

Arrrg ~ Shipwreck museum in Key West

Shipwreck museum in Key West

Shipwreck museum in Key West

Me at Shipwreck museum in Key West


Paddle boarding in Islamorada

Paddle boarding in Islamorada

Florida Keys SUP ~ Paddle boarding in Islamorada

Morada Bay ~ Islamorada

View from Outdoor World ~ Islamorada

View from Outdoor World ~ Islamorada

Boat Rental ~ Outside of Long Key State Park

Boat Rental ~ Outside of Long Key State Park

Boat Rental ~ Outside of Long Key State Park

Fishing it up! Boat Rental ~ Outside of Long Key State Park

Don't worry ~ He was catch and release

Cool Boutique at Morada Bay ~ Islamorada

Cool Boutique at Morada Bay ~ Islamorada

Moon party ~ Morada Bay, Islamorada.  We must attend some day!

Lazy Days, Islamorada