Great roads . . . Boone and Banner Elk Ride

We discussed moving up the Parkway today, but were concerned about finding a place to stay because of all the folks traveling for the holiday weekend. On the Blue Ridge, once you get beyond Boone the hotels and other places to stay get more scarce. We looked through our motorcycle book that lists good rides in specific areas and found a ride that left from Boone. We decided to stay another night here and ride around the area. It was a good choice as the ride took us by some great places with some pretty views on some great curvy roads. Before we started on the ride we stopped by the Earth Fare health food store for a fresh juice and found a little farmers market/craft show that was set up next to the store. We looked through and bought a couple of really unique jewelry items that were made by local folks. After getting our juice, we headed down the road. We stopped by the original Mast General store in Valle Crucis. This store first opened in 1883 offering everything from "cradles to caskets" [and we actually saw one of the old caskets like those that used to be sold in the store]. They have kept the store very close to it's original condition, which makes a visit of historical interest. The store is stocked with a wide range of products, both modern and classic. It was great fun! Once we left the General Store, we headed up NC 194 which is a great curvy, twisty, winding road . . . . lots of fun on a motorcycle! Among some of the towns that we rode through were banner Elk, Linville and Blowing Rock. We also rode by Grandfather Mountain, which was very crowded [cars lined up waiting to drive in]. We talked about coming back to drive through on our way back down the parkway when things are less crowded, but after checking the weather and seeing that they are calling for rain Jim says he thinks he wants to head back to Asheville. Stay tuned!