As tents were packed, the Educators of Excellence caravan headed to our next adventure at the base of Mount Mitchell. Driving along the Blue Ridge Parkway, the group explored the scenic view while making a stop at the historic Linn Cove Viaduct. The team enjoyed “pie in the park” while having lunch (and pie for dessert!) and learning the historical connection between Linville Falls and the American Revolution from Ranger Jonathan Bennett.

The group at Wiseman’s View overlooking the Linville Gorge.

The team arrived at our next destination at Briar Bottom Group Campground just in time to set up camp before experiencing the soothing downpour of rain and the rumbling of mountain skies. We prepared for bird banding in the morning under the picnic shelter.

Learning about bird banding with Museum ornithologist, John Gerwin.

There were a couple of quotes of the day that we’d like to share to give you a sense of our experience.

“Don’t let me forget to get the dead weasel out of the van.”
—Melissa (After collecting a road-killed weasel for the group to observe, which was later returned to the forest.)

“When you’re a lifelong learner, you are always able to be surprised by nature when you open yourself up to the world around you.”
—Nikki (While reflecting on how we’ve been impacted by the natural world around us.)