Off the scenic Blue Ridge Mountain Parkway lies many spectacular natural landscapes. One of the most popular destinations is on the southern end of the Parkway, Graveyard Fields. This natural marvel is situated in the Pisgah National Forest, and south of Asheville, North Carolina. The area contains a three mile loop with beautiful cascading waterfalls. The three major waterfalls are Yellowstone, Second, And Upper. This is a place to come and see nature at it's best. To top it off, you can view so many different natural landscapes and take in the fresh mountain air.

You are able to view the falls year around. The area also provides some of the most eye catching views of the natural habitat. In late spring and during the summer months, Graveyard Fields explodes with breathtaking Rhododendrons and Mountain Laurels. Some other plant specimens available to you are Pin Cherry, Cattawba, Serviceberry, Red Maple, Blueberry, Yellow Birch, Mountain Ash, Honeysuckle Bush, and Ground Cedar. There are also a variety of of wild flowers throughout the forest. This area has an elevation of 5,120 feet and rises to 5,600 feet above sea level. Years ago, powerful mountain winds caused many trunks of trees and branches to fall to the ground. This gave one an eerie feeling, and the entire area resembled a graveyard. In 1925, a massive fire destroyed most of the forest setting.

Throughout the years, the natural trees, shrubs and flowers have resurfaced, making this area one of the most striking landmarks along the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Besides the beauty of waterfalls and plant specimens, you can walk along the moderate trails and hear and see the sounds of the Carolina Junco and Catbird. You may get a glimpse of a white - tailed deer or possibly encounter a black bear. There is also known to be a few variety of snakes and even a rattlesnake here or there along any given trail. This is all part of nature. I wanted to share some other photos of this area with you. Throughout the Blue Ridge Mountains and Smokey Mountains are fog and low lying clouds. This area is noted for the constant haze engulfing the mountains. These shots were taken in late spring and summer.

The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the most scenic highways in the United States. Thousands of visitors a year take in the spectacular natural landscapes that surround the Parkway. Graveyard Fields is one destination that is enjoyed by many. If you are planning a trip to the southeastern United States, this entire stretch of highway runs 460 miles through breathtaking views of the mountains of Virginia and North Carolina. If this trip is not available for you to take, I hope you have enjoyed seeing a little bit of the nature that surrounds my geographic location.