I know, I know....it's early, but I can't help thinking about it. I've had some observations after having spent the last six straight years (04-09) trekking up to the BRP in various locations and taking in the splendor that is the Smokies and Nantahala in Autumn.
What I've noticed, and this may be complete coincidence, is that the even numbered years have been spectacular color while the odd numbered ones have been, "Eh, iffy at best...". Last year was not good for me, for example. I went to lots of places, but nothing with the "zing" of '08.
I go to the same spots every year: GY Fields, Bubbling Springs (Hwy 215?), Craggy Gardens area, Looking Glass Creek/Falls, and other areas between the Pisgah Inn and Brevard along 276 (I think that's the Hwy number). Even numbered years have been stellar, odd ones not so much.
Have others noticed this? Or am I ready for "the home"? I did just manage to graduate twin boys from high school this year, so it could be stress.
Where are you all betting on this year for pictures that "pop" in the Smokies/Nantahala?
Posted by Steve Hamley on July 5, 2010 at 10:16 PM
Joe,
Possible, a lot of trees only bear heavily every other year like the walnut in my yard. So maybe the even years are better but not because of the math, it's the natural cycle or rhythm of nature. But according to my records and images, BOTH 2007 and 2008 were very, very good.
It's always safe to put your money on "the usual suspects"; Grandfather/Tanawa Trail, Graveyard Fields/Shining Rock, Mt Mitchell areas for early color in the first week, The Smokies river valleys and Cades Cove in the fourth.
Discussion
1 repliesWhat I've noticed, and this may be complete coincidence, is that the even numbered years have been spectacular color while the odd numbered ones have been, "Eh, iffy at best...". Last year was not good for me, for example. I went to lots of places, but nothing with the "zing" of '08.
I go to the same spots every year: GY Fields, Bubbling Springs (Hwy 215?), Craggy Gardens area, Looking Glass Creek/Falls, and other areas between the Pisgah Inn and Brevard along 276 (I think that's the Hwy number). Even numbered years have been stellar, odd ones not so much.
Have others noticed this? Or am I ready for "the home"? I did just manage to graduate twin boys from high school this year, so it could be stress.
Where are you all betting on this year for pictures that "pop" in the Smokies/Nantahala?
Possible, a lot of trees only bear heavily every other year like the walnut in my yard. So maybe the even years are better but not because of the math, it's the natural cycle or rhythm of nature. But according to my records and images, BOTH 2007 and 2008 were very, very good.
It's always safe to put your money on "the usual suspects"; Grandfather/Tanawa Trail, Graveyard Fields/Shining Rock, Mt Mitchell areas for early color in the first week, The Smokies river valleys and Cades Cove in the fourth.
Cheers, Steve