What an absolutely beautiful site,
Gray’s lily in bloom!!
At a breakfast meeting a few weeks ago, a friend told me it was in bloom at Roan Mountain. I went home, packed my camera and took off on a four-hour drive in search of the illusive bloom. Arriving at Carver’s Gap, I headed north on the Appalachian Trail. What I found at Engine Gap was amazing. Gray’s lily was in bloom.
The blooms are best viewed looking up and most often that requires lying prone on the ground. (Funny how things of value require a little extra work.)
After making a huge number of photographs, I hiked up to Jane Bald for a better view of the surrounding area.
I stayed for a sunset photograph from Jane Bald but clouds prevented a colorful capture.
I arrived home the following morning at 1:30 AM well pleased with my trip.
We hiked to Engine Gap and discovered that there were even more lilies in bloom that day. It was like discovering them all over again. I was so glad I made the second trip, not just for my friend!
My response seeing and capturing these images is unbridled joy! Never mind that a multitude of others had already captured these beautiful blooms. This was the culmination of a personal quest. And the victory was ever so sweet!!
Your input is welcome!!!