Summer is in full swing down here in the south! I love summer because there are so many ways to spend the day after being cooped up all winter long. One of my favorite ways to spend my time outdoors, is by going for a hike! Not only is it free, but it’s also a great way to get your body moving, while enjoying some fresh air.

My friend Lacie and I decided to drive to Boone, North Carolina on a beautiful Saturday morning so we could hike the Rough Ridge trail. Before we left, we stopped for coffee and walked through the market in Hickory.

We each ended up buying a bundle of lavender and Lacie bought a bouquet of flowers for her apartment!

Can you believe this entire bouquet was only $12!?! It was so heavy too!

The drive up the Blue Ridge Parkway is always stunning. Currently, everything is super lush and green and in full bloom! They say the best time to visit the parkway is in the fall when all the leaves are changing colors.

The Rough Ridge trail is just under a mile long each way and is one of the Parkway’s most popular! You’ll immediately understand why once you make it to the top.

This was a simple trail and I would recommend it to anyone looking for a light hike. Most of the trail is shaded by trees, which is a saving grace in the middle of June.

At some points, you will have step up onto some large rocks, so if you have any knee problems this may not be for you. Because this trail is so popular, they’ve added steps in some areas to make it a little easier.

For me, there is something so rewarding about making it to the top of a mountain and taking a moment to appreciate the view.

I can’t wait to spend the rest of the summer exploring new trails along the Parkway!