#Appalachian Mystique

[schizzodoll]

Milk & Honey Dice Set 🍯

[oddishfeeling]

do you have any book recommendations? pls i need lots 💙💙

this is such a loaded question friend. but lucky for u, i am procrastinating assignments, my take out has yet to arrive, and i just finished another book!

horror fic has been my choice for the last several books

the centre by ayesha manazir siddiqi is about a young Pakistani woman living in the UK. she's a translator for Urduru films. language and translation are central to this book. people are becoming fluent in a matter of weeks in complex languages.... the centre is gorgeous if not entirely mysterious, magical even. but whats the catch?? beautifully written. vivid details. anisa is a flawed, honest, and genuine feeling mc, as are the people in her life. i just finished it a couple hours ago n i miss my girls.

slewfoot by brom is set in 17th century Connecticut. our protag, Abitha, is not from this town but she does he best to adhere to the Puritan standards, if not for her well being, than that of her husband's. something stirs in the outskirts of the village, in the forest and beyond. she finds help from an unlikely source while also fostering a deep inner power of her own. these characters felt so well thought out, the writing is magnetic and the action is well paced. it puts so many preconceived notions right on their head. i loved this book and can't wait to read brom's other novel, the child thief, a retelling of peter pan and the lost boys!

sister, maiden, monster by lucy a. synder was oh so gay and oh so cosmically horrendous. this is like h.p. lovecraft wasn't a weird racist. this is like if biblically accurate angels were once just women in love. this is horrifying, visceral, and relevant to our COVID world. i was gawking at so many of the details. there are so many monster themes actually, it's perfect. the story is told through 3 povs of 3 different women. and we love women! and horror! i didn't expect to pick this one up but I'm so glad i did.

mary: an awakening of terror by nat cassidy do u know what it's like to be virtually invisible? forgotten? disaffected? do u know the pure joy of having a precious collection, adding to it over time, and it being almost ur only reason for living anymore?? then you're a lot like mary. and mary is a lot like plenty of women who get the chance to live beyond adolescence, who are cast out by society-- deemed invaluable. mary is utterly lost at a time in her life she feels she should have it all figured out. she goes back to her hometown, an ambiguous small town in the middle of the desert, and some unlikely characters help her piece things back together. i finished this book feeling so close to mary. we are friends now. there is mystique, horror, fables, myths, bad guys, mysterious architecture, and well mary is not the most reliable narrator. loved this one too.

the last house on needless street by catriona ward i had no idea where this book was going and i loved piecing the narrative together through several characters and their povs. it forces u to confront ur own biases regarding mental health. u are sympathetic to the characters in the most painful, heart wrenching ways. there is murder. there is mystery. there is missing children. there are cats. this book surprised me and it was fun to have to find a couple reddit threads to be sure i was understanding the story correctly. i felt like i read this kind of fast! which is always fun too.

brother by ania ahlborn this one pissed me off a bit. but in a good way because i was so deeply invested. this one is set in Appalachia. i'm not one for stereotypes, especially bc i think Appalachians have a bad rep and it's of no fault of their own. that being said, the insular feel of the book and the absolute claustrophobia those mountains create in this story were like a character in it of itself. our protag, michael, knows there's something beyond. he's seen them on colorful postcards. but his own mind and his own heart seem utterly trapped here. this one is heartbreaking. it's horrifying. and it'll make u dizzy from the amount of times u change ur mind. excited to read her other novel, Seed, because this one stuck with me so much!

a couple honorable mentions that fit the theme:

the vegetarian by han kang korean food. infidelity. art. nightmares. inexplicable mindfucks! this story was scary because it felt very.. possible? no monsters this time. no spells. just... the mind deteriorating. could happen to any of us.

a certain hunger by chelsea g. summers what if girlbossing is just a quick pivot from sociopathy?? what if the crimes are so much more gratifying than say, fame or fortune or even love?? women can be sociopaths too, you know!! this one is fun bc the protag is crazy and it's fun to slip into these characters. cathartic even. omg did i mention, she's a foodie too! just like me :-)

[bigfootbeat]

Regional Variations in Bigfoot Types

Bigfoot is a cryptid creature that has captivated the interest of people all throughout the country. Even though there are many reports of sightings and tales of this elusive creature, regional differences in Bigfoot reports show the variety of perspectives and descriptions held by various groups. These variances give each region's Bigfoot lore a distinct taste by frequently reflecting the local environment, culture, and folklore. The Pacific Northwest is home to the most famous Bigfoot mythology, depicting the creature as a large, ape-like individual with dark, shaggy hair, typically standing between six and nine feet tall. This region, which includes Oregon, Washington, and Northern California, has rough mountain ranges and enormous, dense forests, making it the perfect place for such an enigmatic creature to live. Stories from this area frequently highlight the creature's amazing strength and size, as well as its capacity to blend into the dense forest. The rich indigenous traditions of the Pacific Northwest greatly influence local bigfoot legends, as numerous tribes have their own accounts of such creatures.

The Rocky Mountains provide a varied background for Bigfoot encounters as you move east. Remote mountain regions and high-altitude woods in states like Colorado and Idaho frequently host sightings of the creature. People in this area often refer to Bigfoot as the "Mountain Devil" or the "Wild Man," with sightings typically occurring near remote cottages or hiking paths. Stories often highlight the creature's endurance and perseverance in severe environments, which contributes to the mystique surrounding the harsh and unpredictable climate of the Rockies. These local stories, which present Bigfoot as a nature protector, frequently emphasize awe and reverence for the creature. The Midwest also refers to Bigfoot as the "Grassman" due to its association with the region's grassy, wide fields and deep woodlands, particularly in states like Ohio and Michigan. Midwest reports highlight how the animal can move quickly and stealthily through the undergrowth, becoming perfectly blended in with its surroundings. The fact that sightings of Bigfoot here frequently take place close to bodies of water, including rivers and lakes, raises the possibility that he favors these settings. People frequently portray Bigfoot in the Midwest as equally powerful and enigmatic as its cousin in the Pacific Northwest, albeit slightly smaller and less aggressive. One form of Bigfoot that is unique to the Southern United States is known as the "Skunk Ape." Mostly found in Florida, the Skunk Ape distinguishes itself from other local varieties with its pungent, disagreeable stench. The lush, humid vegetation of the Everglades provides plenty of cover, leading to frequent reports of sightings. People typically describe the skunk ape as having reddish-brown fur, being shorter, and being more nimble. According to local traditions, it's a more solitary and secretive animal that can make its way across the treacherous swamplands.

In the Appalachian region, Bigfoot is commonly referred to as the "Wood Booger" or "Yahoo." States like West Virginia, Kentucky, and Tennessee abound with stories about this monster, often set against the backdrop of the Appalachian Mountains' thick, hazy woodlands. People usually describe bigfoot encounters in Appalachia as frightening, unsettling experiences where the creature appears out of nowhere and vanishes just as quickly. The rough, desolate Appalachian terrain contributes to the atmosphere of mystery and dread, and many residents see the Wood Booger as a relic from a bygone era or a guardian ghost. These regional differences in Bigfoot mythology demonstrate how flexible the legend is, fitting into a variety of settings and cultural situations across the country. Whether viewed as a mystery wanderer, a swamp dweller, or a guardian of the wild, Bigfoot represents the persistent human obsession with the wild and the unknown. The distinctive interpretations of the monster that each region has contributed to the national Bigfoot mythology enhance the fabric of the country's varied landscapes and communities.

[moonmausoleum]

The Ghost of Little Ottie on Bluff Mountain in the Appalachian Range

It is said that the ghost of Little Ottie is said to haunt the wilderness of the Appalachian Trail after he tragically died on the freezing night on top of Bluff Mountain in Virginia. Hikers tell about the crying help from the little boy that vanished

It is said that the ghost of Little Ottie is said to haunt the wilderness of the Appalachian Trail after he tragically died on the freezing night on top of Bluff Mountain in Virginia. Hikers tell about the crying help from the little boy that just vanishes on the trail.  Deep in the Appalachian Mountains, Bluff Mountain emerges as more than just a scenic wonder; it harbors a mystique that…

[luuurien]

Old Saw - Sewn the Name

(Ambient Americana, Drone, Avant-Folk)

Moving from the pastures to the farmhouse, Old Saw’s latest album is a darker, dustier collection of ambient folk music where Americana and Appalachian folk are given jagged edges and cold textures. As the quintet tear apart the earthy loam of their sound, Sewn the Name leaves you stranded in some of their most immersive, evocative pieces to date.

☆☆☆☆☆

If you’ve ever spent an extended amount of time out in the country, you’ll know the distinct difference between how it feels at sunrise and after sunset. Early in the morning, when the sun is drifting just enough above the horizon to reveal the dew left atop the pastures and make the wheat sparkle in the wind, there’s an unspoken sense of safety and comfort in it all; when you can hear and see all the life moving around you, it’s hard to feel anything but warmth. It’s when the darkness consumes those very same fields, when the rustling past the edge of the fence becomes too nondescript to tell whether it’s wind or a wildcat, when every creak of the porch steps seeming to have doubled in volume, that the magic of open land reveals its true duality. For the New England based quintet Old Saw, both of these feelings are essential to their music, their masterful 2021 debut Country Tropics somewhere between the memory, the dream and the reality of American folk music, reeling fiddle drones and soaring pedal steel creating gorgeous backdrops for spindly banjos and dark orchestral bells and blurry organs to duck in and out of, a vast expanse of ambient country built on the idea of calling out to the open country without forcing a particular vision of it. Their latest release does much of the same, but chooses the darkness rather than the sunrise for more intimate country laments with an extra layer of mystique, Sewn the Name’s six pieces leaving more space for silence and colder textures. It’s nowhere near as welcoming as their debut, but Sewn the Name pushes you into these quieter, lonelier environments to make you hunt for the beauty inside all the mess.

With this greater emphasis on decay comes an embrace of new recording techniques, tape machine manipulation done by pedal steel player Henry Birdsey giving these songs weight and an acute awareness of how they move through time. There’s heavy tape hiss and crackling in midsection highlight Ira Dorset Suffering From Moonblindness, the titular fiddle player’s whining drones wrapped around reversed 12-string guitar and bell recordings to keep you from getting a full understanding of the piece’s mechanics, and the absolutely spellbinding Spinner’s Weave lends different fidelity to each instrumental part, layers of fiddle covered in a fuzzy haze while Al Lakey’s intricate 12-string improvisations sit crystal clear on top like flashes of sunlight reflecting atop lake water. If Country Tropics let you drift through its pedal steel and soaring string lines, Sewn the Name forces you to confront its physical limitations as music - not one of these songs gets close to the ten minute mark outside of centerpiece Highgate Ledger, and it’s not just so they can fit more songs into the runtime, the heavy banjos and creaking fiddle lines dominating closing piece Bobcat Sarabande never heading to a big crescendo or crash into silence. Here, the edges are rougher, the textures more unvarnished, Old Saw burrowing into the roots of American folk music and reveling in how rugged yet timeless sound of these instruments puts their gentle ambient music in such a precarious position.

It’s beautiful all the same, which is largely why Sewn the Name still achieves such heights despite being a more reserved experience. While many other ambient albums have succeeded in holding their music in a single space or feeling (Irrlicht, Music for Airports), Sewn the Name traces different paths that all stem from the same country road: Brooksville Trestle Remains is distinctly eerie with its wandering guitar work and long pedal steel whines, while the previous Weathervaning uses rich fiddle layers and trickling banjo improvisation to reach for the homey warmth of old folk songs, tethered to the roots of their sound while seeking to pull unique moods out of every individual song. It can almost feel intimidating the first few listens, like the quintet are trying to pull you out of the Country Tropics’ sun-drenched warmth and trap you in the dusty wine cellar, but after settling into the album there’s a permeable sense of grief and devotion within these pieces not near as present in their debut. Music with this deep a connection to American folk history will always be in some part worshiping Appalachian country music, but Old Saw’s ambient pieces make listening to them feel especially tender, Bob Driftwood’s intricate banjo contributions in Highgate Ledger and Weathervaning easy to imagine being part of a live folk group and Dorset’s magical fiddle work in every piece beautiful enough to be in any country band, but in these grooveless expanses their dedication to the technique and feel of these instruments becomes meditative, becomes careful and focused on evoking the places this folk music comes from rather than just performing songs in a traditional country style. It’s a tricky task to pull off, but Old Saw’s willingness to play with the usual ambient elements - sound manipulation, tape machines, minimalist arrangement styles - places their songs right in the perfect sweet spot between ambient and country, utilizing the former’s generous stretches or space and the latter’s emotional sensitivity for some of the most powerful instrumental music this year. Sewn the Name may lie on the moonlit end of ambient country, but by trading the genre’s established norms for gloomy Americana dirges Old Saw unlock whole new dimensions to their sound. For them, ambient country can be as cold as it is familiar, soaring as it is trapped in the past; through their refraction of American folk music through the lens of modern experimental music, Old Saw’s music feels especially out of time, Sewn the Name leaving all the rough edges so you can fall in love with the memories the band is sharing. It can be a tough album to crack, but once you do there’s few other albums this year with such a robust vision and vivid storytelling. The floors might creak and the fields intimidate past sunset, but Sewn the Name makes exploring the darkness beautiful all the same.

[livefuntravelposts]

Outdoor Escapes: The Best Hiking Trails in the World

Summer is the perfect time to embrace adventure and reconnect with nature. And what better way to do so than by hitting the trails and exploring the great outdoors? Hiking trails offer a unique opportunity to unleash your adventurous spirit, challenge yourself physically and mentally, and discover the breathtaking beauty of the natural world. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or new to the world of hiking, there is a trail out there that will ignite your passion for exploration. In this blog, we will delve into the joys of summer hiking trails, highlighting some of the most spectacular destinations around the world. We have hiked some parts of these trails.  Not the whole trail but it they are still wonderful.  The Appalachian Trail is close to our cabin in North Carolina and the Inca Trail is wonderful in Peru. So, get ready to lace up your boots, pack your backpack, and embark on an unforgettable journey into the heart of nature.

The Appalachian Trail: East Coast Beauty

Stretching over 2,100 miles along the eastern coast of the United States, the Appalachian Trail is a hiker's paradise. Starting from Springer Mountain in Georgia and ending at Mount Katahdin in Maine, this iconic trail passes through 14 states, offering an incredible variety of landscapes and experiences. Whether you choose to hike a section or challenge yourself to thru-hike the entire trail, the Appalachian Trail will reward you with breathtaking views, tranquil forests, and encounters with wildlife. Don't miss the chance to conquer peaks like Mount Washington, experience the beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains, and embrace the Appalachian culture along the way.

The Inca Trail: Ancient Wonders 

For those seeking a blend of adventure and history, the Inca Trail in Peru is a must-do hiking experience. Following the footsteps of the ancient Incas, this trail takes you through the mesmerizing Andes Mountains, lush cloud forests, and finally, leads to the legendary Machu Picchu. The journey is not only physically rewarding but also culturally enriching as you pass by ancient ruins, stone pathways, and breathtaking landscapes. Immerse yourself in the mystique of the Inca civilization and marvel at the awe-inspiring beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is important to note that permits are required to hike the Inca Trail, and they should be secured well in advance due to the trail's popularity.

The Tour du Mont Blanc: Alpine Splendor

If you dream of hiking through picturesque alpine meadows, crossing glistening glaciers, and being surrounded by majestic peaks, the Tour du Mont Blanc is the trail for you. This iconic circuit trail spans approximately 110 miles, passing through France, Italy, and Switzerland, and offers an unforgettable journey through some of the most stunning landscapes in Europe. As you hike along the trail, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views of Mont Blanc, charming mountain villages, and alpine lakes. Each day brings a new adventure, and each night offers the warmth and hospitality of alpine huts and cosy lodges. Be prepared for varying weather conditions and challenging terrain, but rest assured that the beauty of the Mont Blanc massif will make every step worthwhile.

The Pacific Crest Trail: West Coast Wonder 

The Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) stretches over 2,650 miles from the southern border of California to the northern border of Washington, traversing some of the most diverse and awe-inspiring landscapes in the United States. From the arid deserts of Southern California to the towering peaks of the Sierra Nevada and the lush forests of the Pacific Northwest, the PCT offers a truly epic adventure. Whether you choose to tackle a section or embark on a thru-hike, this trail will test your endurance, expose you to the raw beauty of the West Coast, and allow you to forge lifelong friendships with fellow hikers. Prepare yourself for the stunning beauty of places like the Mojave Desert, the High Sierra, and the Cascade Range. It is important to plan and prepare thoroughly, as the PCT presents various challenges such as water scarcity, extreme temperatures, and demanding terrain. But the rewards of witnessing unforgettable sunsets, encountering wildlife, and experiencing the profound solitude of nature make it all worthwhile.

The Camino de Santiago: Spiritual Journey 

For those seeking a hiking trail with a unique spiritual dimension, the Camino de Santiago in Spain is an incredible pilgrimage route that spans hundreds of miles. The most popular route, the Camino Francés, starts in the French town of Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port and ends in the city of Santiago de Compostela. Along the way, you'll walk through the picturesque Spanish countryside, ancient villages, and historic towns, all while encountering fellow pilgrims from around the world. The Camino de Santiago offers a chance for self-reflection, personal growth, and a deep connection with centuries of history and tradition. Whether you undertake the entire route or choose a shorter section, the Camino de Santiago promises a transformative journey that will leave you with cherished memories and a sense of spiritual fulfilment.

Our Final Word

Hiking trails provide an incredible opportunity to unleash your adventurous spirit and forge a deeper connection with the natural world. Whether you choose to explore the majestic beauty of the Appalachian Trail, immerse yourself in the ancient wonders of the Inca Trail, traverse the alpine splendour of the Tour du Mont Blanc, or challenge yourself on the epic Pacific Crest Trail, each journey will be a transformative experience.   These hiking trails not only offer stunning landscapes but also teach valuable lessons of resilience, self-discovery, and appreciation for the beauty of the Earth. As you hike through diverse terrains, breathe in the crisp mountain air, and witness nature's grandeur, you'll find a renewed sense of wonder and a deeper understanding of your own capabilities.   So, pack your backpack, lace up your hiking boots, and set out on an adventure that will leave an indelible mark on your soul. Unleash your adventurous spirit, embrace the challenges, and let the summer hiking trails be your gateway to exhilaration, self-discovery, and lifelong memories. The great outdoors awaits, ready to reward you with its boundless wonders.  

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[ispeaksforthetrees]

The way people talk about Appalachia sucks.

The way progressives on the internet talk about us as if we are all straight out of a fox news clip is the worse.

And somehow the worst blow of all is calling our mountains "unusable land." These mountains, which are older than bone, older than trees, older than the rings of Saturn, are not "unusable." They are full of life and mystique and music. They have incredible biodiversity, with the most species of salamanders anywhere in the world. There are fertile valleys and old, lush forests. There are caverns that stretch for miles, and ancient rivers that weave between the ranges. I've never seen stars like I have in West Virginia, and I've never heard more birdsong in the morning as the sun finally raises above the mountain tops. Some of the best meals of my life featured mushrooms and meat from local hills and hollers. There are hundreds of herbal medicines that grow here (and hundreds of people who still know how to use them). Folklore and fiddle tunes are passed along on foggy mountain nights as people gather to share what they have and give what they can.

Calling the mountains useless because you no longer rely on them to be desecrated for coal says a lot about how you see us, but it says more about how you see rural places everywhere. We are more than just your resource tiles.

It's true, we have a lot of systemic issues, including some of the highest rates of poverty in the US. No one is more aware of that than us. But the first step towards solving that is to remember that we're people with full lives and communities and cultures. Listen to people who are from here and do community action and organizing here (NOT JD VANCE FUCK JD VANCE).

Appalachia means a lot to me. Appalachians are worth listening to.

I was along the Ohio River for a job a while back and stayed overnight in an airbnb hotel that was run down. It was really sad what the state of disrepair was, but I was woken up at 2am by a CSX train hauling coal or something. What do you propose is done with this area, or the entire state of WV since it's mostly unusable land as the coal industry falls off

Um, I don't know what the solution to the poverty of Appalachia is, but I do know it involves treating the people there like humans

[schizzodoll]

Candy Corn Dice Set 🎃

[inflammatory]

appalachian mystique cause ive internalised those posts about how living in appalachia is like living in an open world video game

coastal

pseudo southern? I will give my USAsona a pseudo southern accent regardless

have a friend who fucked off to virginia in 2019 to live with her dad and she looks like she had a nice time

other contenders: minnesota (name appeals to me, very satisfying to say), texas (swag), new jersey (devil)

my USAsona would be from virginia

[hillbillyhippiemusicreview]

Going to the Woods: A Look At Live Music in a COVID World

Laurel Cove.

Simply hearing a name so lovely elicits visions of grandeur; however, gazing your eyes upon this venue in person is more breathtaking than any figment of the imagination. Full of mystique and tucked deep in the lush woods of the Appalachian Mountains in Pine Mountain State Resort Park, Laurel Cove is an enchanted location perfect for a musical escape—and that’s exactly what Bell County Tourism director Jon Grace has made his mission throughout the latter part of 2020 amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. As a part of the “Laurel Cove Socially Distant Mini Series,” Jon has brought several fabulous acts to the stage in one of the most picturesque hollers in the state. Pineville, Kentucky is on the road to become one of the top music destinations in the area and for perfect reason: the dedication to not only the tunes and visitors’ enjoyment, but also exceptional attention to safety during a pandemic, has certainly put the area on the map for other establishments and venues to follow as a model in these uncertain times, as the music industry struggles to find its footing among capacity restrictions, lack of funding, and unfortunate shutdowns. When asked how the miniseries came to fruition, Jon remarked:

"We’ve been wanting to utilize Laurel Cove for a few years now and every time, have had bad luck strike. Last year with our first Laurel Cove Music Festival, we got rained out and had to move it inside. This year, COVID-19 prevented us from doing a full-scale festival. However, when we reviewed the Kentucky Safe at Home mandates for Events and Venues, we found that Laurel Cove could be a perfect spot for us to host some reduced capacity, socially distanced events. We created a detailed safety protocol plan that was approved by the Kentucky Parks Department and have been able to host a handful of shows over the late summer and fall. It's been extremely rewarding on a few fronts...first and foremost to see that people appreciate and have positive reviews of our safety plan and that they follow it so well. Our compliance has been absolutely amazing. Also, just being able to finally showcase this beautiful venue to everyone. Having events during a pandemic are WAY more detailed and more difficult to plan, but it was worth it and then some. We appreciate everyone who has come out this year.”

The first show in the sequence of events featured a jaw-dropping lineup comprised of Arlo McKinley, John R. Miller and the Engine Lights, and Dave Shoemaker, with an appearance by John Clay. It was the album release show for Arlo’s first record with Oh Boy Records, and it was the perfect evening of tunes and fellowship. Despite the forecasted rain, spirits were high and the excitement to be in the presence of live music again was permeable, oozing from attendees to performers in an almost emotional osmosis and filtering down to everyone involved behind the scenes. I made the trek from Alabama to be on location for the monumental occasion, and it was at this moment surrounded by friends and fellow music lovers engrossed in the magic of the forest that I became enamored with the area and its atmosphere. Show-opener Dave Shoemaker echoed my sentiments:

“It was an honor to be standing in front of a crowd again, let alone a sold-out crowd for Arlo’s album release of Die Midwestern. I felt really fortunate to have so many friends and family in attendance for such a big night, in what I believe is the most beautiful and natural venue in the state. Everyone was very respectful of the social distancing guidelines, and I think everyone in attendance had a wonderful night of music. Kudos to Brother Jon Grace and Jacob Roan for taking the chance and bringing live music to Southeast KY during these trying times.”

Rather than dancing on “Hardwood Floors” like many did pre-COVID, concert goers once again grooved outdoors to the sweet, lonesome sounds of Lost Dog Street Band, Matt Heckler, and Charles Wesley Godwin for the second concert in the miniseries set at Laurel Cove. When I believe its impossible for Jon to concoct yet another stellar lineup, he somehow blows my mind once again—and this show was no exception. Unfortunately, I was unable to attend this event; however, when attendee Stephanie Meg shared her thoughts with me I felt as if I had experienced the evening alongside her:

“Walking into Laurel Cove for the Charles Wesley Godwin, Matt Heckler and Lost Dog Street Band show was quite literally a breath of fresh air during all of the restrictions that have pummeled the music industry during the last 6 months. It was a beautiful, early fall evening, and I was surrounded by trees, mountains, and like minded music folk who were there for the same reason as I was, to fill our souls that had been deprived of the live music scene that truly gives us energy. The spaces were blocked off so that groups could sit together while being distanced from other groups. Masks were required when entering and while walking through the venue, but as soon as you were in your spot, they could be removed to enjoy the fresh mountain air.  The acoustics were amplified through the wilderness while three of my favorite Appalachian artists took the stage, and I sang along and danced in my spot from the first note to the last. I couldn't have asked for a better experience (under the existing regulations), and I hope to return to soon!”

 Following the phenomenal lineup of the second concert in the series was the inaugural event for Black Mountain Management, a Kentucky-based management agency featuring a roster of astronomical talent including DeeOhGee, Nicholas Jamerson, and Eric Bolander. Deemed “Going to the Woods,” the concert was a showcase full of adventure as a kickoff for their artists and new operation. Unfortunately, prior to showtime, Nicholas Jamerson became ill and was unable to perform; however, members of his backing band, the Morning Jays, are also members of the incredible group Brother Smith, and they happily stepped up to bring their easy-listening brand of tunes to echo throughout the forest. Unlike at the first show in the series, the rain did not hold off, though attendees danced in the downpour and sang their hearts out—the mountains were positively alive with the sound of music and reverberating with joy. When asked why Laurel Cove was chosen as the prime location for their first event, co-founder of Black Mountain Management Tiffany Finley said:

“Black Mountain Management’s mission is to highlight top-notch regional talent and hosting the launch event at an amazing (and possibly overlooked or undiscovered) KY venue seemed perfect. We felt like once folks discovered a place like Laurel Cove - they would fall in love.  The same is true for the artists we represent.”

The final concert in the “Laurel Cove Socially Distant Mini Series” will surely rock the venue like never before, as The Steel Woods, 49 Winchester, and Dalton Mills take the stage on October 17th for an evening of some of the best southern rock and folk tunes Appalachia has ever heard. Hearts will be touched and faces will surely be melted with that level of talent all in the same place, and while I am deeply saddened to miss it—I vehemently urge readers to grab your tickets and experience those three sensational acts in one of the most lovely venues in all of America. It is surely an unforgettable experience and you will long for the chance to return. Eric Bolander summed up the mutual feelings shared by attendees, performers, and staff alike:

“Jon Grace's efforts are clearly driven by his deeply ingrained passion for genuine live music. This is only matched by his work ethic.  Jon, and his amazing crew, did everything they could to make a safe socially distant event that made folks feel comfortable and safe.  I'm honored and humbled to be able to call him, and many others in that region, friend! #blackcherrymafia”

After my time spent in the area and speaking with attendees and artists, it is quite clear to me that all are unanimous in their their appreciation of Jon Grace’s dedication to live music and their admiration of the venue’s allure. I personally have been rendered spellbound a time or two immersed in the aura, perched on a bench amongst the trees, gazing upon the reflections of the acts in the pond as they shared their gifts with those in their presence. Words simply cannot do it justice.

Recently, sitting by a waterfall in Alabama restless with a heart full of wanderlust, I penned the following lyrics:

“Like an uncut agate in an untamed stream You were the jewel of the mountain in an Appalachian dream More beautiful than all the hollers and the hills Nothing could compare to the way you made me feel”

Perhaps rather than writing about a person, I was writing about my beloved Laurel Cove. Go visit her sometime—you’ll see what I mean.

Peace, love, & music,

Lyssa

----------------------------------

*This is an independent review. The Hillbilly Hippie Music Review was not compensated for this review.

*The opinions expressed are solely that of the author(s).

[toldnews-blog]

New Post has been published on https://toldnews.com/travel/23-of-the-worlds-best-hiking-trails/

23 of the world's best hiking trails

(CNN) — From a multiday trek tracing the routes of a Japanese poet, to a classic clamber in the Argentinian Lake District, here are 23 of the best hiking trails in the world.

Walking boots and waterproof coats at the ready.

1. Pennine Way, United Kingdom

Pennine Way — the first official long distance trail to be established in England.

Anthony Devlin/Getty Images

Stretching 268 miles from the Derbyshire Peak District to the Scottish Borders, the Pennine Way is the United Kingdom’s most famous long distance path.

The entire walk takes around three weeks, passing over wild moorland east of Manchester and through the picture postcard Yorkshire Dales, before crossing the ancient border of Hadrian’s Wall and on toward Scotland.

One for outdoor fanatics, camping enthusiasts and anyone who can handle the vagaries of great British weather.

2. Camino de Santiago de Compostela, Spain

The Camino de Santiago route was highly traveled during the Middle Ages.

Inn Travel

Rather than following a single path, the Camino, also known as the Way of St. James, is actually a series of different pilgrimage routes, all ending at the shrine of the apostle St. James in the cathedral at Santiago de Compostela.

The most popular modern route follows a line across northern Spain from the French Pyrenees.

While some choose to stay at monasteries along the way, plenty of operators offer hotel stays and luggage transfers.

Pura Ventura has an 11-day trip that passes through Galicia, staying in boutique inns, with bags sent ahead each day.

3. Appalachian Trail, United States

The Appalachian Trail stretches from Georgia to Maine.

Patrick Gorski/NurPhoto/Getty Images

Extending for 2,200 miles, the Appalachian Trail is billed as the longest hiking-only footpath in the world.

It runs from Springer Mountain in Georgia to Mount Katahdin in Maine, passing through some of the most remote country in the United States.

That means it’s an undertaking, either for those with endless vacation allowance, or walkers looking to do a small chunk of a classic route.

Well-marked paths and campsites mean it can be tackled alone. But those keen on comfort can use companies like Go Shenandoah, which offers pre-booked lodge accommodation and packed lunches in the spectacular Shenandoah National Park, Virginia, home to some of the best scenery on the trail.

4. The Basho Wayfarer, Japan

This trail follows the route taken by haiku poet Matsuo Basho 1689.

Shutterstock

Japan boasts numerous ancient trails, connecting temples and cities. This self-guided trip follows a route taken by the poet Matsuo Basho over 300 years ago.

The six-day trek starts in Sendai and works its way through the northern Tohoku region, passing through the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hiraizumi and along the ancient Dewa Kaido path, with its beech and cherry forests, before heading into the mountains of Natagiri-toge and finishing at the temple of Yamadera.

Tour operator Walk Japan offers accommodation in traditional ryokan, with access to onsen baths to soothe aching bones after a long day’s hiking.

5. Refugio Frey and Cerro Catedral, Argentina

The one-day Refugio Frey hike is one of the most scenic in Bariloche.

Joe Minihane

The area around Bariloche in Argentina’s Lake District is home to several stunning walks.

But for those with limited time, it’s hard to beat the one-day trek to Refugio Frey and Cerro Catedral.

A bus to Villa Catedral drops at the start of a wide, well-marked path, which winds its way into the Andes, passing through woods before emerging above the tree line into a world of spectacular, soaring peaks. Intrepid visitors can stay at Refugio Frey, either in the hut or camping in its grounds.

6. Mount Toubkal, Morocco

A hike to North Africa’s highest peak is a challenging, but rewarding task.

Geography Photos/Universal Images Group/Getty Images

North Africa’s highest peak at 4,167 meters (13,671 feet), a hike to the top of Mount Toubkal isn’t for the faint-hearted.

The path upwards rises from the village of Imlil, passing over a dry river bed before rising sharply through the shrine at Sidi Chamharouch and on towards a large mountain hut.

After overnighting here, hikers strap on crampons and set off up the snowfield to the summit, where the Atlas Mountains open out and the views are relentless.

A local guide and muleteers for carrying luggage are a must, with tour operator Much Better Adventures able to arrange both, along with transfers to and from Marrakech.

7. Great Wall of China, Jinshanling section

Walking the Great Wall at the tourist hotspot of Badaling can be a stressful experience, with crowds and hawkers making it almost unbearable.

Jinshanling, situated 87 miles northeast of Beijing, offers the perfect chance to explore a steep, winding and relatively unscathed section of this true Chinese icon.

The route through to the wall at Simatai is closed, but the back and forth trip along this section makes for a strenuous workout, with truly amazing views. Hotels in Beijing can arrange tours and transfers.

8. Dragon’s Back, Hong Kong

The Dragon’s Back trail is among the best hikes in Hong Kong.

Discover Hong Kong

Hong Kong may be known for its towering skyscrapers and narrow streets, but the mainland and islands are dotted with myriad hiking trails, the most famous of which is the Dragon’s Back.

Easily reached by bus from downtown Hong Kong, the path begins in a shady tree tunnel on the Shek O Road, before scaling Shek O Peak, with vistas over white sandy beaches, lush hills and tropical islands. The route ends at the beach at Big Wave Bay, its warm waters perfect for a post-hike dip.

9. The Dingle Way, Ireland

Ireland’s Dingle Way trail can be completed in around eight days.

Ireland Ways

Stretching 111 miles, The Dingle Way is a circular path that offers the best way to get under the skin of wild County Kerry in Ireland’s south west.

Starting in the town of Tralee, the clockwise path follows narrow roads, known as boreens, taking in the wide sweep of sand at Inch Strand, passing along the clifftops outside Dingle town and heading around the edge of Mount Brandon, the highest peak on the Dingle Peninsula.

Ireland Ways arranges accommodation along the route, which can be tackled over as many as ten days.

10. Tergo La Trek, Bhutan

Bhutan’s remoteness only adds to the mystique of its walking trails.

Blue Poppy

The relative inaccessibility of Bhutan and need for tourist passes means its trails are unspoiled and ripe for exploration. Tergo-La Trek, in the Haa Valley, is one of the country’s lesser known routes.

This guided trek from Bhutanese tour operator Blue Poppy rises from 3,500 meters to 4,135 meters, passing through peaceful forest paths and up wild mountain tracks, with views of Kanchenjunga, the third highest peak in the world.

Yak herders’ camps and distant villages add to the sense of being in another world.

11. Tahoe Rim Trail, United States

The Tahoe Rim Trail spans two US states, California and Nevada.

Tahoe South

A 165-mile loop around the Tahoe Rim Basin, this iconic trail was established in 1981 and is regarded as one of the finest hikes in the United States.

Passing through six counties and four national forests, in land that straddles California and Nevada, the Tahoe Rim Trail is the best way to explore the Sierra Nevada and Carson ranges.

Intrepid travelers can pack a tent and get back to nature on an 11-day jaunt, best undertaken between July and September.

12. Armenia and the Silk Road

Armenia’s beautiful natural landscapes are best explored on foot.

Walks Worldwide

Easily overlooked, Armenia has some of the best walking trails in Europe.

The 11-day Armenia and the Silk Road trip takes in some of its finest routes, connecting the UNESCO protected monasteries of Sanahin and Haghpat, passing over limestone peaks and through verdant forests, with the opportunity to hike in the wild Geghama Mountains and climb to the top of Aragats, the country’s tallest mountain.

13. Lechweg Trail, Austria and Germany

The Lechweg Trail follows the Lechweg river from Lechall in Fussen.

Walks Worldwide

Starting in the Bavarian town of Fussen, this nine-day route follows the Lechweg river to its source in the Austrian state of Vorarlberg.

Passing the royal castles of a King Ludwig II of Bavaria, Germany as well as crystal clear lakes, the trail heads through the Tiroler Lech National Park, a protected area with lush meadows, turquoise water and ibex at every turn.

Although the trail is self-guided, Walks Worldwide can arrange accommodation and meals, meaning visitors only need worry about putting on their boots and backpacks each morning.

14. Indus Valley, Himalaya, India

Indus Valley — one of the most famous treks in Ladakh.

Shakti Himalaya

While a Himalayan trek is always going to be magical, this remote three-day jaunt in the Indus Valley takes some beating.

The hike, which is an extension of luxury operator Shakti Himalaya‘s seven-day itinerary to the region, leaves the village of Moncarmo and heads to Matho Phu and Shang Phu.

Phu translates as summer pastures, meaning this lush ground makes for pleasant walking while staring at the surrounding peaks and glaciers.

The trip includes stops at local tea houses, with dome tents pitched each evening for a comfortable night’s sleep.

15. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Uganda

Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest boasts many of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas.

Sanctuary Retreats Gorilla Forest Camp

Wildlife walks don’t come more fascinating than a trip into Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, where you can get up close and personal with the area’s mountain gorilla population.

As part of a wider itinerary, Yellow Zebra Safaris offers walks in which visitors are taken on hikes across the forest to meet habituated gorillas used to the presence of humans.

Groups are typically limited to eight people.

16. West Coast Trail, Vancouver Island

The West Coast Trail was originally named the Dominion Lifesaving Trail.

Christian Heeb/laif/Redux

Canada’s wilderness and sheer scale mean it’s blessed with some truly astounding hiking trails.

The classic West Coast Trail covers 47 miles around southern Vancouver Island, with stunning ocean scenery at Bonilla Point and accessible sea caves at Owen Point.

The hike involves scaling ladders, wading through rivers and battling along muddy tracks, but with the bonus of being able to camp out in spectacular open country.

Although self-guided, walkers need to reserve a place on the trail at the start of the year, with spaces severely limited.

17. Percorsi Occitani, Maira Valley, Italy

Percorsi Occitani is positioned in one of the most unspoiled areas of northern Italy.

Inn Travel

A network of ancient pathways through the Cottian Alps, a walk in the Percorsi Occitani is like stepping back in time.

Many locals still speak the Occitan language, while the remoteness of the Maira Valley makes it one of the most unspoiled corners of northern Italy.

Linking hamlets and villages, this nine-day self-guided route scales some of the area’s more challenging hills, dipping into green valleys, with stays at traditional mountain refuges.

Luggage transfers and traditional Occitan meals can be arranged by Inn Travel.

18. Lares and Royal Inca Trail, Peru

The Inca Trail to Macchu Picchu is unquestionably one of South America’s greatest treks.

It can also feel overrun at times, which is where this excellent alternative comes in.

Lares and Royal Inca Trail, a guided three-day trek in the Lares region, follows an ancient Inca path through Andean forests, up the Huchayccasa pass and through the village of Huacahuasi, with the chance to catch glimpse of soaring Mount Veronica.

Once over, hikers can then catch a train to the Inca Trail, completing the final stretch through the cloud forest and into the famous ruins.

19. Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, Costa Rica

Costa Rica’s rich biodiversity is best explored in the high cloud forests of Monteverde.

The reserve has a series of well-marked paths ideal for those keen on an easy stroll with the chance to see the area’s striking bird life and flora up close without having to pack for a multi-day hike. Orchids, ferns and mosses abound, with the chance of seeing a brightly colored quetzal flying high above the trees.

20. The Lycian Way, Turkey

The Lycian Way overlooks the Turquoise Coast.

Diego Cupolo/NurPhoto/Getty Images

Covering 300 miles around the coast of southern Turkey from Fethiye to Antalya, the Lycian Way gives walkers a chance to explore the former kingdom of Lycia.

Passing through the ancient town of Sidyma and the ghost town of Kaya, the route cleaves to the water, with the chance of a cooling dip after a long day’s walk.

Peter Sommer Travels offers an eight-day guided hike along the opening stretch, with the chance to stay on a traditional gulet sail boat each night.

The route is well-marked and can be followed without a guide.

21. The Balkans, Montenegro and Albania

The Balkans’ mountains make for a stand out hiking experience.

Ramblers Walking Holidays

While the Alps is renowned for classic European hikes, the Balkans’ beautiful mountains make for an excellent alternative for those who’d rather hike away from the crowds.

Kucki Kom, one of Montenegro’s most arresting peaks at 2,487 meters, is worth the trip alone, with the scramble to the top rewarded with huge views of the Komovi Mountains.

Those after a longer hike can book onto Ramblers Holidays‘ 14-day route along Montenegro and Albania’s best hiking trails, starting in Kotor and ending in Tirana.

22. Cloud Forest trek, Laos

A challenging trek through the rare cloud forests of northern Laos.

Facebook/Nam Et-Phou Louey National Protected Area

The remote area of Houaphan in Laos is home to Indochina’s last wild tigers. Inside Asia’s Cloud Forest Trek gives hikers the opportunity to catch a glimpse of these elusive creatures, with the chance to set and monitor camera traps.

This multi-day guided trip to the summit of Phou Louey, Laos’ third highest mountain, also includes overnight stays in bamboo huts and time spent watching wildlife at the Poung Nied Salt Lick.

23. Cape to Cape Track, Western Australia

The Cape to Cape Track stretches over 76 miles of Western Australia’s coast.

Greg Wood/AFP/Getty Images

Starting at the lighthouse at Cape Naturaliste and finishing 76 miles away at the lighthouse at Cape Leeuwin, the most south westerly point in mainland Australia, this track is the ultimate way to see some of the finest scenery in Australia.

Hikers can camp along the route or arrange accommodation via the Friends of the Cape to Cape Track.

The Cape to Cape Track route is well signposted, but guides are available to those who want to learn more about the area and its beaches and forests.

[andythomas684-blog]

World's best hiking trails to hike

From a multiday trek tracing the routes of a Japanese poet, to a classic clamber in the Argentinian Lake District, here are 23 of the best hiking trails in the world.

Walking boots and waterproof coats at the ready.

1. Pennine Way, United Kingdom

Pennine Way -- the first official long distance trail to be established in England.

Stretching 268 miles from the Derbyshire Peak District to the Scottish Borders, the Pennine Way is the United Kingdom's most famous long distance path.

The entire walk takes around three weeks, passing over wild moorland east of Manchester and through the picture postcard Yorkshire Dales, before crossing the ancient border of Hadrian's Wall and on toward Scotland.

One for outdoor fanatics, camping enthusiasts and anyone who can handle the vagaries of great British weather.

2. Camino de Santiago de Compostela, Spain

The Camino de Santiago route was highly traveled during the Middle Ages.

Rather than following a single path, the Camino, also known as the Way of St. James, is actually a series of different pilgrimage routes, all ending at the shrine of the apostle St. James in the cathedral at Santiago de Compostela.

The most popular modern route follows a line across northern Spain from the French Pyrenees.

While some choose to stay at monasteries along the way, plenty of operators offer hotel stays and luggage transfers.

Pura Aventura has an 11-day trip that passes through Galicia, staying in boutique inns, with bags sent ahead each day. what to wear on a hike and still look cute https://www.hikingbay.com/what-to-wear-on-a-hike-and-still-look-cute

5 best trips for solo travelers

3. Appalachian Trail, United States The Appalachian Trail stretches from Georgia to Maine.

Extending for 2,200 miles, the Appalachian Trail is billed as the longest hiking-only footpath in the world.

It runs from Springer Mountain in Georgia to Mount Katahdin in Maine, passing through some of the most remote country in the United States. That means it's an undertaking, either for those with endless vacation allowance, or walkers looking to do a small chunk of a classic route. Well-marked paths and campsites mean it can be tackled alone. But those keen on comfort can use companies like Go Shenandoah, which offers pre-booked lodge accommodation and packed lunches in the spectacular Shenandoah National Park, Virginia, home to some of the best scenery on the trail.

4. The Basho Wayfarer, Japan

This trail follows the route taken by haiku poet Matsuo Basho 1689. Japan boasts numerous ancient trails, connecting temples and cities. This self-guided trip follows a route taken by the poet Matsuo Basho over 300 years ago.

The six-day trek starts in Sendai and works its way through the northern Tohoku region, passing through the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hiraizumi and along the ancient Dewa Kaido path, with its beech and cherry forests, before heading into the mountains of Natagiri-toge and finishing at the temple of Yamadera. lattcure outfitters sleeping bag https://www.hikingbay.com/finding-the-best-lightweight-sleeping-bag-for-hiking

Tour operator Walk Japan offers accommodation in traditional ryokan, with access to onsen baths to soothe aching bones after a long day's hiking.

5. Refugio Frey and Cerro Catedral, Argentina The one-day Refugio Frey hike is one of the most scenic in Bariloche.

The area around Bariloche in Argentina's Lake District is home to several stunning walks.

But for those with limited time, it's hard to beat the one-day trek to Refugio Frey and Cerro Catedral.

A bus to Villa Catedral drops at the start of a wide, well-marked path, which winds its way into the Andes, passing through woods before emerging above the tree line into a world of spectacular, soaring peaks. Intrepid visitors can stay at Refugio Frey, either in the hut or camping in its grounds.

6. Mount Toubkal, Morocco

A hike to North Africa's highest peak is a challenging, but rewarding task.

North Africa's highest peak at 4,167 meters (13,671 feet), a hike to the top of Mount Toubkal isn't for the faint-hearted.

The path upwards rises from the village of Imlil, passing over a dry river bed before rising sharply through the shrine at Sidi Chamharouch and on towards a large mountain hut.

After overnighting here, hikers strap on crampons and set off up the snowfield to the summit, where the Atlas Mountains open out and the views are relentless. best winter hikes in washington https://www.hikingbay.com/10-best-winter-hikes-in-washington

A local guide and muleteers for carrying luggage are a must, with tour operator Much Better Adventures able to arrange both, along with transfers to and from Marrakech.

7. Great Wall of China, Jinshanling section Walking the Great Wall at the tourist hotspot of Badaling can be a stressful experience, with crowds and hawkers making it almost unbearable.

Jinshanling, situated 87 miles northeast of Beijing, offers the perfect chance to explore a steep, winding and relatively unscathed section of this true Chinese icon.

The route through to the wall at Simatai is closed, but the back and forth trip along this section makes for a strenuous workout, with truly amazing views. Hotels in Beijing can arrange tours and transfers.

8. Dragon's Back, Hong Kong

The Dragon's Back trail is among the best hikes in Hong Kong.

Hong Kong may be known for its towering skyscrapers and narrow streets, but the mainland and islands are dotted with myriad hiking trails, the most famous of which is the Dragon's Back.

Easily reached by bus from downtown Hong Kong, the path begins in a shady tree tunnel on the Shek O Road, before scaling Shek O Peak, with vistas over white sandy beaches, lush hills and tropical islands. The route ends at the beach at Big Wave Bay, its warm waters perfect for a post-hike dip.

9. The Dingle Way, Ireland

Ireland's Dingle Way trail can be completed in around eight days.

Stretching 111 miles, The Dingle Way is a circular path that offers the best way to get under the skin of wild County Kerry in Ireland's south west.

Starting in the town of Tralee, the clockwise path follows narrow roads, known as boreens, taking in the wide sweep of sand at Inch Strand, passing along the clifftops outside Dingle town and heading around the edge of Mount Brandon, the highest peak on the Dingle Peninsula.

Ireland Ways arranges accommodation along the route, which can be tackled over as many as ten days.

10. Tergo La Trek, Bhutan

Bhutan's remoteness only adds to the mystique of its walking trails.

The relative inaccessibility of Bhutan and need for tourist passes means its trails are unspoiled and ripe for exploration. Tergo-La Trek, in the Haa Valley, is one of the country's lesser known routes.

This guided trek from Bhutanese tour operator Blue Poppy rises from 3,500 meters to 4,135 meters, passing through peaceful forest paths and up wild mountain tracks, with views of Kanchenjunga, the third highest peak in the world.

Yak herders' camps and distant villages add to the sense of being in another world.

11. Tahoe Rim Trail, United States

The Tahoe Rim Trail spans two US states, California and Nevada. A 165-mile loop around the Tahoe Rim Basin, this iconic trail was established in 1981 and is regarded as one of the finest hikes in the United States.

Passing through six counties and four national forests, in land that straddles California and Nevada, the Tahoe Rim Trail is the best way to explore the Sierra Nevada and Carson ranges.

Intrepid travelers can pack a tent and get back to nature on an 11-day jaunt, best undertaken between July and September.

12. Armenia and the Silk Road

Armenia's beautiful natural landscapes are best explored on foot.

Easily overlooked, Armenia has some of the best walking trails in Europe.

The 11-day Armenia and the Silk Road trip takes in some of its finest routes, connecting the UNESCO protected monasteries of Sanahin and Haghpat, passing over limestone peaks and through verdant forests, with the opportunity to hike in the wild Geghama Mountains and climb to the top of Aragats, the country's tallest mountain. keto hiking food https://www.hikingbay.com/tips-to-choose-keto-hiking-food-for-a-multi-day-hike

13. Lechweg Trail, Austria and Germany

The Lechweg Trail follows the Lechweg river from Lechall in Fussen.

Starting in the Bavarian town of Fussen, this nine-day route follows the Lechweg river to its source in the Austrian state of Vorarlberg.

Passing the royal castles of a King Ludwig II of Bavaria, Germany as well as crystal clear lakes, the trail heads through the Tiroler Lech National Park, a protected area with lush meadows, turquoise water and ibex at every turn.

Although the trail is self-guided, Walks Worldwide can arrange accommodation and meals, meaning visitors only need worry about putting on their boots and backpacks each morning.

14. Indus Valley, Himalaya, India

While a Himalayan trek is always going to be magical, this remote three-day jaunt in the Indus Valley takes some beating.

The hike, which is an extension of luxury operator Shakti Himalaya's seven-day itinerary to the region, leaves the village of Moncarmo and heads to Matho Phu and Shang Phu.

Phu translates as summer pastures, meaning this lush ground makes for pleasant walking while staring at the surrounding peaks and glaciers.

The trip includes stops at local tea houses, with dome tents pitched each evening for a comfortable night's sleep. 15. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Uganda Uganda's Bwindi Impenetrable Forest boasts many of the world's remaining mountain gorillas. Sanctuary Retreats Gorilla Forest Camp

Wildlife walks don't come more fascinating than a trip into Uganda's Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, where you can get up close and personal with the area's mountain gorilla population.

As part of a wider itinerary, Yellow Zebra Safaris offers walks in which visitors are taken on hikes across the forest to meet habituated gorillas used to the presence of humans.

Groups are typically limited to eight people.

[auburnfamilynews]

The CBS Game of the Week will broadcast the 124th meeting of Auburn versus Georgia. There have been so many thrilling and dramatic games over the 127 -year history of the series, and this year’s edition will just add to the mystique that is the Deep South’s Oldest Rivalry.

The two programs mirror each other in a lot of ways. Both like to be downhill running teams and both rank in the top five of the SEC in total offense. However, this edition of the rivalry could well be “the battle of the defenses” as both teams field two of the best in the league. The Tigers rank third in the SEC in scoring defense (17.4 points per game) while the Bulldogs are second nationally in scoring defense (10.1 ppg).

The matchup should be worthy of its selection as the CBS Game of the Week. Fans can expect a nailbiting thriller, scheduled for kickoff at 2:30 CT. Those attending the game can expect almost perfect game-day weather with little to no chance of precipitation and temperatures starting out in the low 60’s at kickoff and falling into the  40’s by the end of the fourth quarter. For those who will watch the game on television, we have prepared our usual broadcast schedule of Saturday’s games.

Game times are Central Standard, and all SEC games as well as those involving Top 25 teams are underlined. Games on ESPN/ABC can be viewed by clicking here, and games on ESPN3 can be viewed by clicking on this link.

Acid Reign will have his Open Thread up Saturday morning so feel free to join in the discussion on the thread and add your thoughts about the game as it unfolds. War Eagle and …

Beat them Dawgs! Nov. 16, 2019. All Times Central. 11:00 a.m.  Indiana (7-2) at No.9 Penn State (8-1) – ABC  No. 11 Florida (8-2) at Missouri (5-4) – CBS No. 15 Michigan State (4-5) at Michigan (7-2) – FOX VMI (4-6) at Army (4-6) – CBSSN No.5 Alabama (8-1) at Mississippi State (4-5) –  ESPN Alabama State (5-4) at Florida State (5-5) – ACCNX No.14 Wisconsin (7-2) at Nebraska (4-5) – BTN TCU (4-5) at Texas Tech (4-5) – ESPN2 UMass (1-9) at Northwestern (1-8) – BTN Tulane (6-3) at Temple (6-3) – ESPNU Kansas (3-6) at No. 22 Oklahoma State (6-3) – FS1 See the rest of the schedule after the jump.

Noon  UTEP (1-8) at UAB (6-3) – ESPN3

1:30  No. 23 Navy (7-1) at No. 16 Notre Dame (7-2) – NBC 2:00 Idaho State (3-7) at BYU (5-4) – ESPN3 Coastal Carolina (4-5) at Arkansas State (5-4) – ESPN+ UL Monroe (4-5) at Georgia Southern (5-4) – ESPN+ Troy (4-5) at Texas State (3-6) – ESPN3 2:30 No. 12 Auburn (7-2) host No. 4 Georgia (8-1) – CBS Game of the Week No.2 Ohio State (9-0) at Rutgers (2-7) – BTN Wake Forest (7-2) at No.3  Clemson (10-0) – ABC West Virginia (3-6) at No. 24 Kansas State (6-3) – ESPN No.18 Memphis (8-1) at Houston (3-6) – ESPN2 Central Michigan (6-4) at Ball State (4-5), 3:30 p.m. ET, CBSSN Virginia Tech (6-3) at Georgia Tech (2-7), 3:30 p.m. ET, ACCNX No. 19 Texas (6-3) at Iowa State (5-4) – FS1 Kentucky (4-5) at Vanderbilt (2-7) – SECN 3:00 No. 8 Minnesota (9-0) at No. 20 Iowa (6-3) – FOX Syracuse (3-6) at Duke (4-5), 4 p.m. ET, ACCN Hawaii (6-4) at UNLV (2-7), 4 p.m. ET Incarnate Word (5-5) at New Mexico State (0-9) – No broadcast Wyoming (6-3) at Utah State (5-4) – ESPNU 3:30 Stanford (4-5) at Washington State (4-5) – Pac12N Rice (0-9) at Middle Tennessee (3-6) – ESPN+ 4:00 Louisiana (7-2) at South Alabama (1-8) – ESPN+ 5:00 Southern Miss (6-3) at UTSA (4-5) – ESPN+ 6:00 No.1 LSU (9-0) at Ole Miss (4-6) – ESPN No.17 Cincinnati (8-1) at South Florida (4-5) – CBSSN Air Force (7-2) at Colorado State (4-5) – ESPN2 6:30 No. 10 Oklahoma (8-1) at No.13 Baylor (9-0) – ABC South Carolina (4-6) at Texas A&M (6-3) – SECN Louisville (5-4) at NC State (4-5) – ACCN Arizona State (5-4) at Oregon State (4-5) – FS1 No. 25 Appalachian State (8-1) at Georgia State (6-3) – ESPNU 7:00 No.7 UCLA (4-5) at Utah (8-1) – FOX 9:15 New Mexico (2-7) at Bo. 21 Boise State (8-1) – ESPN2 9:30 Arizona (4-5) at No. 6 Oregon (8-1) – ESPN

10:00 USC (6-4) at California (5-4) – FS1

The post College Football TV Broadcast Schedule for Saturday, November 16, 2019 appeared first on Track 'Em Tigers, Auburn's oldest and most read independent blog.

from Track 'Em Tigers, Auburn's oldest and most read independent blog http://trackemtigers.com/college-football-tv-broadcast-schedule-for-saturday-november-16-2019/

[charlesjening]

Exclusive: We Know What Mark Weinberger Will Be Doing That He’s Officially Out at EY

No one was as surprised as we were when the news broke late last year that Mark Weinberger was stepping down as chairman and CEO of EY. Adding to the mystique of his unexpected departure, our source — who helped us break the story — hinted that Weinberger’s exit was prompted in part by pressure in the wake of the #metoo movement and recent sexual harassment claims at EY. As far as we can tell, there’s nothing to that allegation, despite the firm’s continued issues with sexual harassment trouble.

Now, y’all know how much we love a good unsubstantiated rumor around here. And it would be easy to speculate wildly on why Mark Weinberger decided to step down. It could be that the guy has been at the firm since I rocked jelly shoes, a perm, and a too-tight iron-on Snorks T-shirt (the 80s were rough, you kids today have no idea) and deserves a break. It could be, as he alluded to in his letter to employees, that he feels pretty good about how the firm met its Vision 2020 goals and feels as though “stepping down at the beginning of our financial year 2020 seems like the appropriate moment.” Hell, for all we know it could be that he’s a huge gamer and, like me, has gotten so into Fallout 76 since its November release that he realized he simply could not balance his innumerable duties at the firm with his unquenchable desire to roam the Appalachian wasteland with nothing but a guitar sword and a hunk of rotting wolf flesh to sate his parasite-induced starvation.

I digress, got carried away for a second there. Point being, at the end of the day, the real reason Weinberger is stepping down is between him and his family. Speaking of, we have a sneaking suspicion family was a real motivator here, and in an exclusive interview with Going Concern the day the news broke last December, he confirmed those suspicions. He plans to focus on his family now that his duties to the firm have (mostly) come to an end.

As I was speaking to him last year, I remembered an article I’d written many, many years back, back when this website was still relevant. In it, I shared a story I’d read in which Weinberger talked about his commitment to his family, and used an odd example to prove it. You can relive it here, but the long and short of it is that shortly after becoming EY CEO, Weinberger was in China giving a speech to thousands of EY employees and instead of attending the reception afterward, got right on a plane back to Washington to be with his daughter for her driving test. You see, he’d promised her a year prior he wouldn’t miss it. According to him, no one remembered the speech he gave, but everyone remembered how he apologized for ducking out on the reception to be with his daughter as he’d promised. “You can have all the initiatives you want saying you can have flexibility, but until some of the real leaders make the choice to choose family, I don’t think people feel like they have real permission to do it,” he told TIME in 2014.

Shortly after telling the China story to TIME, he told them another tale — between Bed, Bath & Beyond runs, no less — about missing the World Economic Forum so he could help his daughter move into her dorm at USC.

We can extrapolate two things from these stories: A) obviously he takes his commitment to his family seriously and B) in order to be successful in the above, sacrifices must be made. I mean, if I had to choose between having lunch with George Soros and shopping for a new faux fur throw at 20% off, I know which I’d choose. But putting family and espresso machines before business was not always a luxury Weinberger could indulge in, at least not until now.

Our original tipster told us Weinberger wasn’t leaving to pursue “another private sector job, return to government service, or academia” and our interview with him confirmed just that. Will he end up on some board somewhere helping hungry kids or vaccine-injured rescue dogs or something? Sure, it’s possible. I mean, the guy is gonna get bored as hell just sitting around hanging out with his wife and four kids all the time. But as far as we know, the plan is to spend some much-needed quality time with his family above all else. Now you know, too.

Weinberger’s departure is officially effective today, July 1, just in time for fireworks and bomb pops around the pool with the fam for Independence Day in his best white New Balance like any legit dad. We wish him well and can only hope his successor Carmine DiSibio looks half as good in a Photoshopped pussy hat.

The post Exclusive: We Know What Mark Weinberger Will Be Doing That He’s Officially Out at EY appeared first on Going Concern.

republished from Going Concern

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Where does UMBC over Virginia rank among greatest sports upsets of all time?

There are so many ways to contextualize UMBC’s stunning 74-54 win over Virginia in the NCAA tournament on Friday night. And yet none on its own can really do the upset justice.

There was the 0-135 record of 16-seeds against 1-seeds. There was the point spread – Virginia by 20.5 – and the money line – Virginia -4500, if it was listed at all. There were Virginia’s ranking, No. 1 no matter where you looked, and UMBC’s, 188 on KenPom. There were UMBC’s 20-plus-point losses earlier in the season to powerhouses such as Vermont and Albany.

Yes, the team that just pulled off the impossible really did lose 83-39 to Albany less than two months ago. Seriously.

But the only way to truly contextualize UMBC’s historic victory is to place it in historical context. Where does it rank among the greatest sports upsets of all time?

If we limit the list to somewhat mainstream American sports, and to single games or events, surely UMBC over Virginia is among the top six. But it’s ranking can be debated.

GREATEST AMERICAN SPORTS UPSETS OF ALL TIME

6. Appalachian State over Michigan, college football

Was Appalachian State’s Week 1 victory over Michigan in 2007, sealed by a blocked field goal on the final play of the game, more surprising than UMBC over Virginia? Yeah, probably. Was it more unlikely? Yes. Appalachian State went in, unofficially, as a 33-point underdog. It came out a 34-32 victor.

But in the end, this was an early-season football game, which means it A) carried more unknown variables going in, and B) wasn’t as consequential as 16-over-1 in the postseason.

5. Chaminade over Virginia, men’s basketball

Virginia’s other shocking loss was more incomprehensible and unbelievable than its 2018 NCAA tournament disaster. In 1982, the Cavaliers, with the indomitable Ralph Sampson, lost 77-72 to Chaminade, a Hawaiian NAIA school with an enrollment of 900. There was no betting line, no media coverage, no awareness, not a single thought that the top-ranked team in the nation could lose. And yet it did. It remains the most inexplicable upset in college basketball history.

But there was so much mystery and mystique around the game – it wasn’t televised or caught on video, so fewer than 4,000 people have ever witnessed it – that it’s tough to judge. There are urban legends that have been crafted. There’s so much we don’t know about the circumstances and possible explanations for how the heck this happened that it’s difficult to rank it among the three greatest sports upsets of all time.

4. UMBC over Virginia, men’s college basketball

Let’s fight through recency bias and assess UMBC’s stunner fairly. And yes, it was a stunner. But was it as unfathomable as many people felt it was in the aftermath? Probably not.

It was as earth-shaking as it was because 16 over 1 had never been done before. But just because it hadn’t been done before didn’t make it near-impossible. Several 16-seeds had come close. And when you consider that, over the years, 135 had entered games against top seeds with, on average, roughly a 2 or 3 percent chance to win – just as UMBC did – it’s actually somewhat surprising that none had.

There are also reasons UMBC over Virginia was more likely than most potential 16-over-1s. Virginia was missing a key player. It also plays a style and a pace conducive to fluky outcomes. Its system neutralizes talent advantages. Underdogs only have to sustain extraordinary performance for relatively fewer possessions. So there were reasons to think a UMBC upset was possible.

What made it so remarkable was the margin of victory. UMBC didn’t just win as a 20.5-point underdog; it covered the spread by a whopping 40.5 points! In a way, though, the thoroughness of the victory downplays how great an upset it was. UMBC would have been able to pull it off even with a flawed performance. So while it will go down in college hoops history, it doesn’t quite top the all-sports charts.

3. Mississippi State over UConn, women’s basketball

Yes, it was the Final Four, and yes, Mississippi State was a No. 2 seed. It wasn’t some plucky underdog. But it was an underdog – a massive one. Because anybody was, and still is, a massive underdog against UConn.

The Huskies carried a 111-game winning streak into the 2017 Final Four, and appeared to be cruising toward a national title. They were 21.5-favorites, and -7,000 on the money line. Both those numbers were bigger than Virginia’s against UMBC. UConn’s track record was also much stronger. The stakes were much higher. And the finish – a Morgan William buzzer-beater – was more dramatic. So William and the Bulldogs still take the crown for biggest college basketball upset of all time.

2. Buster Douglas over Mike Tyson

Not only had Tyson never lost when he stepped into the ring against Douglas in 1990; of his 37 wins in 37 fights, 35 had been by knockout. He had a longer and more comprehensive track record of dominance than anybody else on this list. That’s why Douglas was a 42/1 underdog – and even those odds were, according to reports, only offered at one or a few Las Vegas casinos. It was a foregone conclusion that Tyson would make quick work of his overmatched opponent.

And then, well, he didn’t. Douglas knocked out Tyson in the 10th round. For those who weren’t alive to experience it – and for those who aren’t boxing fans – it’s difficult to comprehend just how shocking Douglas’ victory was.

1. Miracle on Ice

It was college kids against pros. It was amateur Minnesotans against the mighty Soviets. It was the sporting extension of a political rivalry. And it was a game the USSR simply couldn’t lose. There was seemingly no way. The Soviets had won the past four Olympic golds. They’d won 17 of 20 world championships between 1963 and 1983. They’d smashed the U.S. in a warmup game weeks earlier.

But in 1980, the American kids shocked the world. They won 4-3 in the Olympic medal round, and ultimately took gold. The Miracle on Ice was dubbed “the greatest upset in sports history” at the time, and it probably still stands as such.

Also considered: New York Jets over Baltimore Colts in Super Bowl III, USA over England at the 1950 World Cup, 16-seed Harvard over 1-seed Stanford in women’s NCAA women’s basketball tournament, Rulon Gardner over Alexander Karelin at the 2000 Olympics.

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Henry Bushnell covers soccer and college basketball for Yahoo Sports. Have a tip? Question? Comment? Email him at henrydbushnell@gmail.com or follow him on Twitter @HenryBushnell.

More March Madness coverage from Yahoo Sports: • UMBC shocks Virginia, first 16-seed ever to beat a No. 1 • What is UMBC? Everything you need to know about the university • UMBC’s upset eliminated last perfect bracket in Yahoo Sports Tourney Pick’em • Where UMBC’s upset of Virginia ranks among all-time greatest upsets • Meet UMBC’s other hero, the man behind its famous Twitter account