Backpacking The Original Blue Ridge Parkway

Celebrating the Blue Ridge Parkway's 75th Anniversary

2010-09-22T19:01:00.000-07:00

Harley Jolley - My former NPS Supervisor

Phil Francis - BRP Superintendent

The official celebration of the BRP was held at Cumberland Knob on Friday, September 10, 2010. "Sojourner" Barlow attended and met many of the wonderful people that had help make the End To End Backpacking Trip in 2008 so special.

CLICK HERE FOR ALL OF THE PHOTOS

Blue Ridge Parkway End To End Cycling Tour to begin June 14th 2010

2010-05-22T18:36:00.000-07:00

Grandfather Mountain Sunset Blue Ridge Parkway
Click on map for a more detailed map

We are less than one month away from the next trip down the Parkway from End to End. On June 14th Three cyclists and my big Ford F-350 will begin the next run from End to End.

This trip is one where I will have the opportunity to share my love of the Parkway with three soon to be teachers that are part of the NC Teaching Fellows Program.

NC Teaching Fellows Program

Blue Ridge Parkway Cycling Tour Information

The National Parks: America's Best Idea

2009-09-16T22:51:00.001-07:00

Salisbury Post Article Celebrates the First Anniversary of My Blue Ridge Parkway Walk

2009-09-16T22:32:00.000-07:00

Click the Image for The National Parks on WTVI

"THE NATIONAL PARKS: America's Best Idea"

A Film by Ken Burns

On PBS

SALISBURY POST ARTICLE

"Hiker enjoys Walk of a Lifetime"

CONSERVATION TRUST OF NORTH CAROLINA
SUMMER NEWSLETTER - Spotlight
"Walk of a Lifetime"

2009-09-07T13:38:00.000-07:00

THIS WEEK
LET US REMEMBER THE EVENTS OF
9-11-01
AND INSIST THAT OUR COUNTRY BE DETERMINED

NEVER TO HAVE THESE OR SIMILAR EVENTS
OCCUR ON AMERICAN SOIL AGAIN.

TRIBUTES PAGE
Last year on 9-11 I was backpacking on the Blue Ridge Parkway
I completed a resupply on that date and purchased a new Tent.

LET US NEVER FORGET!!!!

Another Article about my Parkway Walk Just Released

2009-08-03T21:34:00.000-07:00

The Conservation Trust of North Carolina just released their Summer 2009 Newsletter and the Feature Article titled "Walk of A Lifetime" is a three page article about my Original Blue Ridge Parkway End To End THRU Hike. The article's author is Richard Broadwell of the Conservation Trust of NC. Richard is located in Boone where he helps to develop and implement CTNC's land protection activities in the western part of NC and assists local land trusts and other conservation partners with their work. Read the article by clicking the title below.

"WALK of a LIFETIME"

Other Articles about my BRP Walk Here

TRAIL ANGELS

2009-02-28T16:47:00.000-08:00

TRAIL ANGELS

I have been very slow to post this entry on the Blog because of Life. When you are on the trail or just coming off of it you are not caught up in "everything else". You have more focus on that one thing - The Trail or The Walk. My apologies for the long time it has taken me to post this... it is fairly large... also there will be lots of pictures soon. Please accept my apologies and enjoy the post.
It may take a while to post all of the pictures here but I will get them posted asap.

Dave "Sojourner" Barlow

“Trail Angels” are the "unsung heroes" of different trails such as the Appalachian Trail , the Pacific Crest Trail, and others by helping hikers with food, water, rides, laundry, showers, and much more. During the dark times, when hikers waver between continuing on and giving up, the support, encouragement, and "magic" provided by a trail angel can make all the difference. Often anonymous, trail angels help thru-hikers for no other reason than, in the words of one angel, "the satisfaction of helping another human being . . . making their journey better and in the process becoming woven into that journey." Frequently, trail angels find spots where hikers are liable to run into trouble and then, like magic, solve the problem—for instance, by providing water in the desert. In this way they seem like guardian angels, appearing just when they are needed most.

So here it is, at long-last…a list of the amazing folks who lent me a hand and made this journey possible. I really hope that I do not leave anyone out. You have taught me so much about kindness and hospitality, and the success of my completion of the Original Blue Ridge Parkway walk is yours to share! Thank You with all of my heart.

Ahoalton!!!
Dave “Soujourner” Barlow

It all started only 3.5 miles from the start of my walk down the “Original Blue Ridge Parkway” – near McCormick Gap in Shenandoah National Park. I saw a vehicle pull out of an overlook and it looked as if the driver was going to head South, but instead the driver hesitated and turned North. Pulling over to the side of the road beside me the window was already rolled down. “Good Day Sir” How are you doing? The driver asked. He asked if I was doing “The Trail” and I replied with the first of thousands of explanations over the next 42 days that I was not, but instead was walking the “Original Blue Ridge Parkway”. Asking if I needed anything at all and finding out that I did not, the cheerful driver gave me a business card and added that if I did need anything to give him a call. His card had printed in Big Gold Letters across the top – “TRAIL ANGEL”.
Bill Gallagher of Rockfish Gap, Virginia had set in motion at least for me, the first of many, many, such encounters and random acts of kindness during my next 42 days on the Original Blue Ridge Parkway.

I would like to list the “Trail Angels“for my walk in the order that they presented themselves to me. I dearly hope that I do not leave anyone off of the list. If I do, please let me know so that I can rectify that error. Again, Thank You All!!!!

My First and foremost “Trail Angel” is My Wife Debbie, who when I first mentioned to her that I wished to undertake this endeavor not only agreed, but told me that she would do all she could to make it happen for me. She not only assisted, but put up with the month of packing and repacking, food drop planning, and more, and visited with me on the journey and actually claimed me at the end of the walk.

My son Brent for being there for me during the expedition in Boone, NC, Craggy Gardens Picnic Area, and again at the end in Cherokee, NC to claim me.

My daughter Katie at Craggy Gardens Picnic Area.

My son Glenn and his family for being there at Craggy Garden Picnic area and at the end in Cherokee, NC to claim me.

Derek Miller, My Trail Email Update Author and my resupplier in Roanoake, Fancy Gap, and Boone, and Reunion- met me at the end of the walk. Also helped me purchase a Tent in Roanoke.

On The Trail

Bill Gallagher of Rockfish Gap mentioned above.

3 unnamed Guys from Waynesboro who offered me a Coke in an overlook early in the trip.

Jeremy Sears, Park Ranger that I met at Love Gap. Followed my movements on the N. end of the Pky. and “had my back”.

Chet White- Photographer for the News Advance of Lynchburg, Va. finds me right after the Bluff Mtn. tunnel - the only tunnel in Va. He provided me with Bananas and Ice water after pictures.

Calvin Rice, the manager of the Otter Creek Restaurant. Held my resupply food and offered large helpings at Otter Creek restaurant.

Blair Edwards – Captain, Big Island Fire Department – Offered shower at the FD along with a tour.

Chris Dumond, reporter for the News Advance of Lynchburg, Va. Met me with Chet at S. side of James River and spent the night in one of the worst campsites and hiked with me half way up Apple Orchard Mountain.

Rod and Sue Dyers form Batavia, Ohio. Encountered me @ Petite Gap on my way up Apple Orchard Mountain. Ice cold Coke and Ice water. AT Folks.

Wild Raspberries all through the MP 74, 75, area. A gift from real Angels.

AT Trail worker with “Chicken Little Syndrome”, warns me of the impending Tropical storm Hannah. He was correct… I wrote in my Journal a couple of days later… what I call my Tempest Quote:
“High speed, horizontal, water control exercise in futility, while dodging flying acorns and dead limbs and trying to keep dry in the process.” No Fear – My God had it all in control.

Dan and Linda Brown took my pack at the Fallingwater Cascades parking area and let me hike “slackpack” the three miles to the Peaks of Otter Lodge. They also procured three copies of the News Advance newspaper from Lynchburg, Va. Dan is a former Superintendent of the BRP and Linda is the Chair of the Employee and Alumni Association.

Dena Amos - A white SUV pulls up and stops and the driver asks if I was the guy in the Sunday Paper? When I explained that I was, she gave me a Bible. She had driven up all the way from Bedford, Va. Just to give me the bible for my trip.

Harvey’s Knob overlook in morning – low on water and rain moving toward me in the distance. Cyclists gave me ice water and brownies. Awesome!!!

Maintenance Crew – Mr. Overstreet and his Giant Sweet Potatoes at the SPEC Mine Trail overlook. Just talking with him reassured me that the true spirit of working the land “is not a lost art”.

Walking in rain – peaceful and warm. Got to MP 100 Deer antler – Gift.

Vinton Ranger Station Maintenance Crew provided Shelter from rain, Candy Bars, fresh water, great conversation. Met with Roy Jones, Peter Givens, C. Overstreet.

Called a couple of friends from AO 2007 today and found out that with their new teaching jobs, there is a connection between the supervising teacher and my Mom. Apparently they went to Mexico together to distribute Operation Christmas Child Shoeboxes. Really made my day.

Met Eddie Blankenship at the Roanoke River Gorge overlook. He shared with me his favorite Bible Verse. Proverbs 3, 5-6 and “The Serenity Prayer”.

God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change; courage to change the things I can;and wisdom to know the difference.Living one day at a time; Enjoying one moment at a time; Accepting hardships as the pathway to peace; Taking, as He did, this sinful worldas it is, not as I would have it; Trusting that He will make all things rightif I surrender to His Will;That I may be reasonably happy in this life and supremely happy with HimForever in the next.Amen.--Reinhold Niebuhr

Kyle Underwood Age - 81 walking along the Parkway @ Mason’s Knob. Chatted about the parkway’s history and changes.

Derek Miller – Roanoke Resupply.

Water Worries next day. Cahas Knob MP 139 Local Cyclist and then VMI Cross Country Team – Susan is their Coach. The team topped my bottles off. God and his Trail Angels are good- very good.

Devils Backbone. Fire down below and later chimes from the Abbey. Called Pastor Bev and mention my craving for Grape juice.

Smart view area met Dwayne and Carol Thompson while searching for a campsite beside the Scion Abbey. Offered side yard for me to camp in. Also cold water at well beside rodeo circle. Dwayne checked on me the next day around noon. He also offered his parents yard to stay in @ MP 155. Harmon and Adalee Williams.

Harmon and Adalee Williams were 6 years old when the Parkway was being built. Adalee has concerns for me about bears. They are just about the same age as my parents.

Tuggle’s Gap Restaurant Rocky Knob Blueberry Pie and Mtn. Dew with Leanne Womack singing “I Hope You Will Dance” on the radio.

Pete Schula District Ranger - Rocky Knob. Shower at the Maintenance Area. Great conversation and encouragement. The BRP and the NPS are definitely receiving my Trail Emails.

Roger and Linda Smith, Campground Hosts - Campsite at Rocky Knob Campground. Campsite.

Barbara West, Rocky Knob Visitors Center Eastern National Parks and Monuments Seasonal. She showed me a book that I did not know about. "Visual Character of the Blue Ridge Parkway". Apparently it is an internal document. I will check when I get to Headquarters.

Bill Cruise met me @ MP 173 while I was taking a picture after coming out of the rain. Stopped and offered me 5 Bananas, 2 Red Grapefruit, and Warm Blackberry Cobbler and a spoon to eat it with. He also offered me a place to stay and shower if I needed or wanted it and gave me directions to his home.

That evening shortly after passing through the Meadows of Dan area, I came to MP 180 and a truck stopped and Rees Woody hops out a tells me that it looks like rain and that he figures I will need a place to stay tonight. He lives a quarter mile down the road and has a horse farm on Mayberry Creek. He has a picnic shelter with two tables, rocking chairs, marble topped end tables and ceiling fans. The horses are friendly and there is a grape arbor and a well with fresh, cold water. His daughter is a VP with IBM and that is how they came to have what they do. “If no one is using it then it is going to waste.” Ask and ye shall receive! I had my grapes and grape juice that I had been craving.

Eldon Painter - Pumpkin Farmer – Cabbage too. He offered cabbage for me to take with me.

Stewart Childress - Pastor Bluemont Presbyterian Church also Mayberry Presbyterian Church. Allowed me to stay in the Church Picnic Shelter adjacent to the BRP. Great time talking about the walk and my walk with the Lord.

Phillip Hale - “Worlds Best Schwanns Man” - Gift of ice cream to Preacher Childress and myself in exchange for the story about my walk.

Dick Hinton - Photographer Drives a TJ Jeep at Puckett cabin, Fancy Gap, and several more times. Checking in on me and gave me apples and candy bars at Fancy Gap crossing.

Ricky and Judy Smith and Wanda Winesett and kids. Fancy Gap Country Store. Tomato, Apples, Chow Chow, Pepsi.

Harvey Ward - Galax, Va. Stayed in yard. Dad was a sawyer for the CCC. Passed away at 96 in 2007. Brought me 2 bottles of ice water before turning in for the night.

Whit and Gelene Sizemore, Whit picked me up on BRP after morning start. He sold some of his land to the Parkway to keep it from becoming developed. Showed me Horse Knob where the Baptist Air Care helicopter Crashed several years ago, where he grew up, the town center, and his Fiddle Workshop. Took me home to meet his wife and have Breakfast. He is a Fiddle Maker and Player, Played for Randy Kendrick at the Knoxville World’s Fair.

Carl Deaton- father of Jenny and Spencer Brown - Hiking the ATsouthbound. They became good friends with Tim “Footnote” Pegram. “The Happy Couple”'

Kristin Johnson (The Bride) from Huntersville, NC Wedding pictures at millpond.

Air Bellows Gap – I looked out and saw Grandfather Mountain ~50 mi. away. I also saw Table Rock and Hawksbill – What a Cathedral!

Ralph and Frank Levering - brothers. Ralph is a Davidson College Professor. Frank is a well known author and has a TV show – Simple Living TV.net on WUNCTV.

Timber Rattler on Road. He and I were both totally calm and relaxed. No Fear. This is his home.

Grapes at the Mt. Jefferson Overlook. The Grapes smell so good when walking past them. Turkeys led me to them at the side of the road. Ate a whole hat full.

Amanda Watson At Benge Gap. Park Vista Motel and Restaurant. I smelled the kitchen as I walked down toward the gap. Bill Watson's Country Store. Meal and place to camp was provided. We traded stories. Amazing Hospitality! Also offered meal in the morning as well. Mt. Jefferson Overlook is where Amanda Watson got engaged. Wedding is scheduled for 2009.

Samaritan’s Purse Day. Valerie Davis came out to meet me along with the photographer. Photo shoot, Lunch and Interview. Brief tour of Operations of OCC with Rachael Fugate. Met Randy Riddle – Director of Domestic Operations. Offered to provide me with Hotel room. Took me to meet Lisa Hash at ASU. Invited me back for next mornings Devotions so I could be introduced to all of Samaritan’s Purse at their morning devotions. I met Joey Turner of Samaritan’s Purse and OCC the star of many OCC Youth Videos. Sam McGinn - Senior Ministry Representative gave me the tour of the whole campus @ Samaritan’s Purse. Rachael took me to Cone Manor House to spend the day – Intense Rain.

Ladies at Cone Manor House let me camp out in the Kitchen. Raining like mad. I caught up on my journal and did the Charlotte Observer Interview with Joe Marusek.

David Dutton drove up in the rain from Mooresville to see me in the driving rain. He gave me a small air horn to assist me with protection on the rest of my trip. He also let me use his cell phone and he interviewed with Joe Marusek as well.
Derek Miller, Lisa Hash joined me and we went out to dinner in Boone. Still raining. Stayed another night with Lisa. 4am Geoff Swanstrom jumps on me while I am sleeping. He shows up in some of the darndest places. We have a reunion that lasts until Sat. afternoon. Debbie and Brent join us. Geoff and Derek leave, Lisa goes to Cookout. My family does the resupply and then take me to dinner before returning home.

Lisa Hash takes me to church and then sets me back out on the Parkway.

I open package from FUMC Landis and I have Grape Juice and Brownies as well as written good wishes from my Church Family. Whoo Hooo!!

When Lisa left, I was able to quickly get back on track and was approaching my home area on the Parkway (Sub District). I had a chance to tell my story at least 20 times today to youth and adults as well as cyclists that needed to know about the detour around Craggy Gardens. I knew what was around each corner. As I made my way around Grandfather Mountain and on toward Grandmother Mountain, it became dark. I was pushing to reach the road to Wilson Creek and planned on camping off the side of it. God had other plans. He showed me where to camp. It was a Beautiful site. The next day it was almost 6 miles before I found the road I had planned to camp off of. I would never have made that the night before.

Called Gerry and Trappy Cook from Flat Rock Trail. They weren’t home and couldn’t believe the message I left. Gerry said he played it at least 20 times.
Christa and Sam Poore, also, Janine Hughes of Christa’s Country Store. Like Family to me. They let me know that Grandfather Mountain had been sold to the State of NC that morning by the Morton Estate.

A Couple from Linville Falls area gave me a Caffeine Free coke after they had driven home on their motorcycle and then got into their truck and found me again on the parkway.

Kirk Gordon from Ontario, Canada on BMW Motorcycle. Ifirst met him at Linville Falls Campground. Again at Chestoa View Overlook the next day. Peanuts and Bananas.

Gerry Cook came out to meet me at Bear Den. Took me home and got to meet Trappy, Lucille, Kim, and her daughter Abbey. Snacks and Sandwich as well as Soda, and fresh water. Lucille remembered me exceptionally well despite her Alzheimer’s. He put me back out on the Parkway later that evening.

Bill and Judy Carson - Altapass Orchard. Place to stay, Apples, Tour. I got to meet Richard Broadwell and others folks from the Land Conservation Trust of NC. Got to learn more history than I ever knew about the Overmountain Victory Trail and what they are trying to do to preserve the Parkway and history. “Saving The Good Stuff”. I will be back and I would like to hike from the Altapass Hotel site all the way down through the Loops of the Railroad and through the tunnels.

Jay Shields, Pisgah District Ranger, Mike and Bea Hensley, Museum of NC Minerals Staff. I am really home. Mike mentioned lots of bear evidence near the old Victor place and told me to be careful. Bea is the same age as Harley Jolley my Supervisor on the Parkway when I started.

Lots of wind and very cool as I head towards Crabtree Meadows. Lots of Bear evidence from Gooch Gap all the way to camp. At 3 Knobs Overlook my hiking poles were blowing violently sideways. Cold front has moved in and the wind is from the N-NW. Fall was definitely in the air and I was in for a cold night. The days are beginning to be noticeably shorter. Fall is coming to the higher elevations of the Blue Ridge, The Black Mountains, and the Craggies.

Met Herman Zephaniah Young and his wife at Licklog Ridge Overlook. One of the Best views on the Parkway. Herman is 6 generations removed from Thomas Young of the Mt. Mitchell and Young’s Knob area. 9 Generations back in the Micaville area were the 1st Methodists in this area. Thomas was a circuit rider with a number of churches.

“NEVER TRY TO OUTGUESS THE LORD”. This is the 2nd night I tried to predict where my campsite would be. This was the Black Mountain Gap Bear Night. A motorist warned me that 2 very large Black Bears were hanging out at the turnoff to Mt. Mitchell and had been there for several hours. I backtracked about a half mile and made a campsite off of the Parkway and about 30 feet below the road grade. I was less than a mile from the bears.

The next morning while passing the turnoff to Mount Mitchell there are no cars and much evidence of the Bears from the night before. The sound of silence from the vehicles is deafening. This 15 mile stretch of the BRP is closed and is all mine to enjoy. The only sounds are rustling of leaves, an occasional insect buzzing by, woodpeckers, dripping water from rocks in the road cuts, the crunching of leaves, twigs, and P’corns (Rebecka – my Granddaughter’s name for acorns). The Sun is warm – the shade is cool. The views are stunning.

A little past MP 363 I realized I could see Mt. Pisgah and The Smokies. I can almost see the end of the BRP from here. Very Emotional.

Family Reunion and Feast at Craggy Gardens Picnic area. Wonderful meal with the whole family. Gave girls Chestnuts and showed them how to find them. Also gave them a tour of where I spent the night last night.

Andrew Johnson student at UNCA and a former student of mine and Alaskan Odyssey participant in 2005. Stayed with him for 2 nights on campus while waiting for Headquarters to open on Monday am. Took me to Skyland UMC for Sunday Service.

Kaci Campbell – Former student at Mooresville High School and currently at UNCA took me to Headquarters and met with Harley Jolley and Parkway Superintendant Phil Francis. She returned me to the Parkway to resume my walk after Headquarters visit.

Harley Jolley and Phil Francis. Just great to visit with them at Headquarters. First time I had been in the new facility. Harley walked in and greeted everyone as if he owned the place. He does! He is one of the original CCC boys that built the BRP and he has worked with the Parkway for over 50 years. He turned 88 this year as did Bea Hensley. Remember, I dedicated part of this walk to him and to the CCC Boys. Phil Francis receives us as if we are heroes. Kaci Campbell is amazed. She later tells me that “Harley is “Precious” and that she was very humbled to watch history being made.” She thanked me for including her in my walk in such a personal way.

HQ Staff, Jayme Miller, Pansy Clark, Steve Stinnett – Chief Protection Ranger and others… All made me very welcome. I was given a copy of the book “Visual Character of the Blue Ridge Parkway”. Kaci will keep it for me for now – It is too large to pack.

Raptors – “Because they Can”. Soaring, Gliding, Hanging, Tilted, Veering, Hovering as the thermal lifts, holds. Feathers like hooks on the ends of their wings cling and hold as the mighty birds wheel in the azure blue, thin mountain air. “Because they Can” Glorious Day!! Silence is loud. Not many cars. The click of Grasshoppers on the heated roadway, High Cirrus Clouds are signaling a weather change. Sundogs in the afternoon. The rustle of leaves – the beginning color change. “The Fall of Summer”. Seasons changing on the Parkway. My walk is nearing its end.

Leaving the Mill’s River area. Looking back to the Asheville Airport watching a jet take off, it circles overhead and as the turbines whine, the sound disturbs a Pack of Coyotes just off of the Parkway. The chorus of yelps and howling that ensues can be heard for several miles. Only on foot is one treated to such pleasures of the Parkway.

All other travel is missing the mark. Bicycles, Motorcycles, Cars, Buses, Trucks, are all “Time Machines”. John Muir was right. “Only by going alone in silence, without baggage, can one truly get into the heart of the wilderness. All other travel is mere dust and hotels and baggage and chatter.”

Monarch Migration. Saw a few in the Cherry Gap area.

Graveyard Fields was on Fire with color.

School Group from Florida 8-9th grade. Shared my Journey with them.

David Lowery and Sonny Bates told me about the “Goat Man” at Overlook before Richland Balsam.

Richland Balsam Cyclist took my pictures and shared my story with his crew. They each shouted “You Go Dave” to me as they sped downhill from Richland Balsam – the highest point on the BRP. This cyclist also shared with me the news that there had been a rock fall in Yosemite National Park that hit Camp Curry the day before. Small World – only three more days left.

Marcia Bowers, Balsam District Ranger met near Ranger Station at Balsam Gap. She had been receiving my Trail Emails and offered to let me inside to look at Soco House the next day while she was on patrol. It has been 34 years since I had last seen it and stayed there when going through NPS Orientation.

Group of Motorcyclists at Apple Orchard Overlook asked me about my story and my walk. They made comments such as “What A Legacy”, “More of a Man than I Am” I really thought it intriguing.

While Climbing Mt. Edith Cavel – MAMA aeromedical helicopter flies through the Gap four different times. This reminds me of Bald Mtn. area earlier in the trip when Jeremy Sears had to medivac a motorcycle crash victim with the Virginia State Police helicopter. How things have changed from the 70's when I was a Park Ranger.

Jim and Cindy Barrett in the Red Mazda Convertible at next to the last overlook before Water Rock Knob. Gave me Beef Jerky and circled up with me and offered Prayer for safe Travels and the Lord’s Blessings to Share the Story when finished.

Unknown Couple at the last overlook before Water Rock Knob. Gave me some Vitamin Water – Orange Energy. We also spoke about how we were supposed to be at that overlook at that exact moment in time and not on top. The light was awesome with slanted rays and more. Incredible Pictures.

Marcia Bowers picked me up at Hornbuckle Valley Overlook. Takes me to Soco House for a tour. Then asks if I would ride with her to Cherokee before she brings me back on patrol. In Cherokee she treats me to breakfast. Shares with me her family history in this area. Jenkins Ridge Overlook. Harley mentions her family some in his book.

“Leaves, swirling, flying, making little tornadoes, crackling, crunching, there is a coolness to the air, golden, red, brown, green. These are the colors of Fall. This is a quite different season than when I began six weeks ago. It is quite a different Parkway than when I began. Older, wiser, more heavily travelled, many, many, more motorcycles, bicycles, cars. Less financial support and more demand and use. People are Loving the Parkway to Death. But in a different way. Not hikers, not historians, just people wanting to get away from their hectic, frenetic, noisy, hasty, harried lives to escape easily to the tonic of wilderness. Thoreau was sooo right. However, the people want it easy, fast, right now. So many times I’ve found during this time that drivers are so involved in their narcissism that they would rather almost hit me – a pedestrian than possibly scrape another vehicle or Slow Down or Brake and Stop if necessary. There are Racers, Buzz cars, Grannies and Buicks, SUV’s that will never see anything more extremes than this, Campers, Great White Waste (Motorhomes), Fishermen, Bicycles, Motorcycles of all types and numbers. There are all different types and in Roanoke there are the Commuters. All enjoy the Parkway. Who cannot? Harley Jolley was right: “Why wouldn’t Everyone want to enjoy the Parkway?” Where Else Would You Rather Be?”

Big Witch Gap – A Memorial to Joe Kolodoski. Killed in the Line of Duty June 21, 1998. We will always remember. Rest in Peace Brother!

Things to remember and Things I will Miss:

LGM’s - The Mile Markers - "Little Gray Men"
My morning shadow
Turkey’s calling but unseen
Katydids, salamanders, tree frogs, crickets, Owls, night sounds
Wind in the Trees
Morning Smells
Quiet Weekdays – The road is Mine
The play of light
Clouds skittering across the sky
The sound of Trekking Poles working the Parkway
My Little Buddy - "My Shadow"
The Heel Pressure of the downhill stretches
“Feet Dancing” in the Sleeping Bag at night after the boots and socks come off.
Falling Acorns (P-Corns)
Trail Angels
Telling My Story
Moonlight on the Tent
Silence
The Woofing of Deer
Lack of Hub Bub – Busyness
Bird Songs – Night Hawk Calls
The Simple Life. No Cares. This is what I do.
Crows- Ravens
Sounds of Bear Dogs trailing Bears
Bear Scat
Looking at the little things of God’s Creation and really enjoying them because I have time to. Because I Can.
Changing of the seasons and the change of the light as the days grow shorter.

Walking with the Lord in his Cathedral - But he is right here and he was with me on this Journey. We had quite a time together. I can't wait to get back.

Remember, It is His Kingdom, His Power, His Glory! And when we join him in Heaven – I can Only Imagine!!!!

Just a Few of the Critters of the Blue Ridge Parkway

2008-10-13T20:40:00.000-07:00

How Big a Boy Are You? Only ~2.5 Ft. and ~3 inches of Timber Rattlesnake

Beech Gap Tunnel Gap Area Monarch Migration
Did not see a single Bear, but this was the Mac Daddy evidence ~3 Pounds worth
Wooley Worm says
"Cold start to the winter followed by a warm spell and then a cold end to the Winter season."
Salamander found outside my tent door after 15 hours of steady rain
Katydid or Katydidn't

Just a few of the Critters I encountered on my walk on the Blue Ridge Parkway

Lots More to Come in the Coming Weeks

2008-10-13T19:05:00.000-07:00

Kaci Campbell, Dr. Harley Jolley, Dave Barlow, BRP Superintendent Phil Francis at Headquarters
Sun's Rays settling behind Water Rock Knob
Fall has arrived at the Water Rock Knob Area of the Parkway

Dave "Sojourner" Barlow and Granddaughters Rebecka and Alicia Barlow with a wagon load of Operation Christmas Child Gift Boxes.

Now that the Blue Ridge Parkway Walk is finished, the work really begins. I kept a detailed Journal and have more than 350 pages of information and more than 2,360 photos that were taken on the 42 -day "Walk of a Lifetime" Some of the photos and Trail Journal entries will be posted here soon.

Anyone that hikes long distances will recognize the expression "Trail Angels" I will try to list in the coming days some of the Trail Angels that have enriched my experience. I will also try to post some of the absolutely incredible photos that I have had the privilege to try to capture for all to see.

Sooooo...... Here is a little sampling!!!
Dave "Sojourner" Barlow

Derek - The Trail eMail Publisher

2008-10-13T18:09:00.000-07:00

Derek Miller and Dave Barlow

(Click to Enlarge)
Many of you have followed my walk through regular "Trail eMail" Posts from the ubiquitous E-mailer - Derek Miller. Let me take a few minutes of your time to introduce you to this unique individual. Derek is a personal friend of mine that is like both a Brother and a Son, a mentor and an apprentice. We sometimes jokingly explain to others that we are "Long Lost Brothers from Different Mothers"
Derek is the "Lead Staff Member" of my summer American Odyssey programs that have been offered for the last 13 years. Derek assists me in designing the offerings of American Odyssey, Derek and I have traveled throughout North America together, from the Arctic Ocean throughout Alaska, Canada, New England, and Mexico. We have been to all of the lower 48 states together as well as all of the Canadian Provinces.
Derek and I met in 1998 and he has served as a Staff member from 1999 - to the present on almost all of the American Odyssey offerings. You can ask any of the American Odyssey participants and they will tell you that it is uncanny how you can ask Dave or Derek the same question at the same time even if they are in different locations and you will receive the same answer. We are programmed on the exact same frequency and have the same wavelength down to the nano Angstrom.
He is a former High School Math Teacher, a Nurse at the Burn Center in Chapel Hill, NC, a student of New Games and Initiative Games, Tom Brown Jr. and Early American Ways, Music, Guitar and Native Ameican Flute.
Derek took most of the photos at the end of the Blue Ridge Parkway Hike and actually was able to assist with the resupplys that took place in Roanoke, Hwy 52 at Fancy Gap in Virginia, Boone, and was there at the end of the Parkway Walk for me. I am Proud to introuduce you to:

Derek Miller
"My Long Lost Little Brother From a Different Mother"

Thank You from the bottom of my heart for the Friend You Are To Me!

"THE ORIGINAL BLUE RIDGE PARKWAY IS MINE"

2008-10-13T17:20:00.000-07:00

David Barlow at Southern End of the Blue Ridge Parkway

MP 469

On Sunday October 12th at 1:35 pm David Barlow took his Backpack off and set it down on the side of the Blue Ridge Parkway next to the 469 Milepost marker and declared that -

"The Original Blue Ridge Parkway Is Mine - And also part of Operation Christmas Child."

A total of more than 479 miles was walked over a 42 day period to raise awareness for the World's Largest Christmas Project. Hundreds of people were able to hear about the ministry of Samaritan's Purse and several newspaper articles and web articles were the result of the effort. More than 250 Business Cards were given out with this Blog site address and other contact information.

ARTICLES TO DATE REGARDING THE JOURNEY

An article from The News & Advance, in Lynchburg, VA.
"Retired Park Ranger Hiking 469-Mile Blue Ridge Parkway"
Special thanks to Chris Dumond, the author of the article, and Chet White, the photographer.

Samaritan's Purse -Located in Boone, NC has an amazing Web Article on their Website http://www.samaritanspurse.org/
Look at the changing Photos at the top left of the website.

This article thanks to Valerie Davis, Rachael Fugate, and Jon Black - Photographer. and all of the folks at Samaritan's Purse in Boone, NC
The Samaritan's Purse Web article is titled
"Sharing The Journey"

"Barlow Hiking for the World's Children"
Joe Marusak

The Charlotte Observer

The Christian Post Article

"Russian Adoptee, U.S. Hiker Changing Lives with Shoe Boxes"
By Michelle A. Vu
Christian Post Reporter
Wed, Oct. 08 2008

Possibly More to Follow.

In the Final Week of the Parkway Hike

2008-10-05T11:35:00.000-07:00

WOW!!!

I can hardly believe it!! I am finally within sight of Mount Pisgah and the Great Smoky Mountains. I rounded the turn at Balsam Gap Overlook, climbed onto the Craggy Mountains and when I looked off into the Weaverville, NC area and toward I-26 I could see them both.

This Journey has been amazing and yet I know there is much still to be done. I still have more than 70 miles to go. I will meet with the Headquarters Staff on Monday, October 6th and then "Press On" toward Cherokee and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

I apologize for not being able to update the Blog as I go. I have passed out so many Cards. I plan on spending quite a bit of time updating after I complete the Journey. I must tell you though, there is enough information for several books. The wonderful kindness of strangers, the intensity of the experience, the sights, the smells, the people, the culture of the road and the visitors and more......

Please keep returning. Within the next couple of weeks, I will have much more here to share.

Also, Remember www.Samaritan'sPurse.org
and

Operation Christmas Child

The National Collection Week is November 17-24, but you may send completed boxes year-round to our headquarters:

Operation Christmas Child
Samaritan's Purse
P.O. Box 3000
801 Bamboo Road
Boone, NC 28607

More Soon to Come!!!!

Dave "Sojourner" Barlow

"The Journey Is The Destination"

2008-08-28T15:46:00.000-07:00

I Hope to Make John Muir Proud.

"The Journey Is The Destination"

Greetings Friends, Family, Colleagues and Others:

Tomorrow morning I will depart for the Northern end of the “Original Blue Ridge Parkway” at Jarman Gap on the Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park to begin my “Hike of a Lifetime”. I took a 2 day rain delay while the remnants of Tropical Storm Fay refilled the springs and seeps of the high country for me so that I will have plenty of fresh water.

I have been trying for a while to decide on what to use for a “Trail Name”. In church on Sunday our Pastor dedicated the school children’s Book Bags and of course my Pack. She also spoke about Journeys, and "Kingdom, Power, and Glory” and how it was all God’s Kingdom, and His Power, and all for His Glory. The Scripture was Psalms 121. Our Pastor also gave me a copy printed out of this verse for me to take with me from the Church Family. During the sermon the word "Sojourn" came up and I think I will adopt it for now as my Trail Name – “Sojourner”. However, if rain from more tropical storms like "Fay", "Gustav", and "Hanna" continue to bring their moisture to the Blue Ridge, I may have to adopt the trail name of “Rain Dance”. Two weeks ago, while on the Parkway, I noticed that the Parkway was extremely dry due to the drought. I was a bit concerned that there would be little water available for me at higher elevations. It looks as if my prayers regarding this have been answered.

I have also been trying to decide how to dedicate this undertaking to a “Greater Cause”. I finally decided to dedicate it to raising awareness about Samaritan’s Purse and Operation Christmas Child. After my Mother mentioned hearing of a runner wearing a Bumper Sticker for Operation Christmas Child running across the State of Minnesota to raise awareness, I decided to do something similar. I plan to carry on my Pack the Operation Christmas Child Bumper Sticker and during one of my resupply stops near Boone, NC. I plan to have some friends bring me a little red wagon and some of the OCC Shoe Boxes and we will do a Photo Shoot on the Parkway of the Thru Hiker (Me) wearing my Pack and Bumper Sticker, pulling a Little Red Wagon carrying Operation Christmas Child Shoe Boxes, wearing an OCC T-Shirt.

I will be thinking of all of you while I take this stroll down the Blue Ridge Parkway to visit places I always heard about but have never visited. I will reminisce about the past- both mine as a National Park Service Ranger, and of the “Boys of the Civilian Conservation Corps”, who 75 years ago, built this wonderful, scenic, most visited, and most treasured, National Parkway. As I get closer to NC, the experience should be more of a Homecoming – since I am very familiar with most of the Parkway in NC. If you can, come visit me. I shouldn’t be that hard to find. Milk and cookies are always nice as well as fresh fruit and ice. Please keep me in your Prayers for Strength, Health, and Safety. I have had the Bible Verse Psalms 121 claimed for me and I will cling to it. So long for now. Watch for the updates that will be forthcoming as I get underway.

“Sojourner” or “Rain Dance” Barlow

Rain Delay is In Effect for my Blue Ridge Parkway Hike

2008-08-26T21:23:00.000-07:00

Update to this Blog entry on 8/28/08
It turned out that the rain totals in the Landis, China Grove area of NC received between 12-14 inches of rain in a 36 hour period. The storms moved into Virginia and are just now clearing out.

It appears that Tropical Storm Fay has entered the equation and will delay the start of my Blue Ridge Parkway Thru Hike for at least one and possibly part of another day.

"It is not too bad if you are caught in it while on the trail. You adapt to the card you are dealt. It is quite another thing to start out in a terrible, sloppy, mess. It can set a negative tone for the whole experience" "Sojourner" Barlow

From www.WBTV.com Weather Center in Carlotte, NC
Wednesday: Periods of rain, heavy at times, even pockets of thunder and lightning can still develop Wednesday in the vicinity of the remnants of Fay as she slowly pulls away to the northeast of the Carolinas. Highs near 80. This system should be on its way out of the region by Thursday, but not before rain putting down rain totals of 3 to 7 inches. While we sure need the rain, it may be too much of a good thing in a short period of time, particularly in the mountains and foothills, where flooding is a concern.

All of this weather is heading up the Blue Ridge Mountains and will be in the Jarman Gap area for the next two days putting down some huge numbers of inches of rain.

Dedicating the Blue Ridge Parkway Thru Hike To a "Higher Cause"

2008-08-25T20:22:00.000-07:00

Ever since I decided to Backpack the Blue Ridge Parkway from end to end and include with it Section 1A that is now a part of Shenandoah National Park, I have tried to decide how to dedicate this undertaking to a “Greater Cause”. I have prayed long and hard about it and I had not received and answer – that is until last Friday.

I received an Email from my Mother on Friday night and she mentioned that she had recently learned about a runner that was running across the state of Minnesota?? to raise awareness about Samaritan’s Purse - Operation Christmas Child. My Mother is very involved with this wonderful ministry through her Church - Master Builder Ministries and beyond by doing awareness sessions for other churches. Her idea was for me to put an Operation Christmas Child Bumper Sticker on the back of my pack for the Parkway Hike. I could speak to people along the way about the program to raise awareness. I also took a cue from the way Mom and Dad dedicate the Operation Christmas Child Shoe Boxes. The boxes are pulled in to the church sanctuary by children in wagons.

That was it! I plan to carry on my Pack the Operation Christmas Child Bumper Sticker and during one of my resupply stops near Boone, NC. I plan to have some friends bring me a little red wagon and some of the OCC Shoe Boxes and we will do a Photo Shoot on the Parkway of the Thru Hiker (Me) wearing my Pack and Bumper Sticker, pulling a Little Red Wagon carrying Operation Christmas Child Shoe Boxes, wearing an OCC T-Shirt.

In the Church that I attend, First United Methodist of Landis, NC this last Sunday we had the Dedication of the Book bags for all of the students returning to school this week. Since I spent 33 years in the classroom and I will not be returning to the classroom this year, but will be living out of my pack for about six weeks – I was asked to bring mine for the dedication as well.

Our Minister, Rev. Bev Coppley was a student in my Homeroom class when she was in the 7th Grade. On Sunday her message was all about “Journeys” and "Kingom, Power, and Glory”, and the Scripture was Psalm 121. Our Pastor also gave me a copy printed out of this verse for me to take with me from the Church Family. During the sermon the word "Sojourn" came up and I think I will adopt it for now as my "Trail Name" - Sojourner.

LINKS

Samaritan’s Purse
Operation Christmas Child
Master Builder Ministries

Master Builder Ministries Operation Christmas Child Outreach Ministry
Psalm 121
First UMC Landis

Only One Week Left until I start My Journey Down the Parkway

2008-08-20T00:23:00.000-07:00

Where I will begin my Journey on August 28th, 2008

It is early Wednesday morning and I still have a list of about 100 things to do before I can head for Jarman Gap in Shenandoah National Park to begin the "Journey That Will Be The Destination".

My teacher colleagues are already attending school - these are the Teacher Workdays that allow the Teachers to Gear Up for the start of a New Year. The excited faces will all be in their seats on Monday the 25th of August and I will not be their Teacher this year.

Instead I will be making my final preparations for my approximately 500 mile Backpacking Trip that will cover the Entire length of the Original Blue Ridge Parkway from Jarman Gap (Map) in Shenandoah National Park all the way down the Blue Ridge Parkway (Map) to Cherokee, NC. The actual road distance of this journey is listed at 478 miles and is ~8.5 miles longer than the Blue Ridge Parkway due to my inclusion of Section 1A that was deeded over to Shenandoah NP in 1961. Just think - No Stop Signs for almost 500 miles.

On August 12th while returning from a visit with my parents in Rhode Island, I stopped by the Otter Creek Restaurant on the Parkway. I left a parcel of food with the Manager - Mr. Calvin Rice. He has been the Manager of the Otter Creek Restaurant for almost 50 years. This supply of food will last me a week so I will not need to carry as much when I start out.

I guess I'd better wrap it up for now, it is late and I have a lot of preparation still and items that have to be done in advance for me to be able to be gone for nearly 6 weeks.

"The Order of The Long Leaf Pine"

2008-08-19T23:00:00.000-07:00

"The Order Of The Long Leaf Pine Certificate"

On Tuesday, June 10th, 2008 the Faculty and Staff of Mooresville High School Gathered for a Retirement Luncheon for Mr. Rankin and David Barlow. We have been good friends and colleagues for many years having worked together in several schools - but longest at Mooresville High School. I had Mr. Rankin's daughter in my class and she was present as well as my family and Susan Shields and Natalie Miller another of my former students and Staff Member of the American Odyssey program.

What a festive occasion it was - Balloons and cakes representing our career interests, wonderful lasagna and salad and ice cream. The Faculty really outdid themselves. Cathy Black the Bible Teacher put together a slide show of the past and present for both Mr. Rankin and myself. There were photos of his coaching activities and my Hands On activities in class as well as photos from the American Odyssey Trips. It was awesome!!!!

Coach Nancy Dilks served as the Emcee and many wonderful stories were recounted from both of our careers. Mr. Eddie Karriker spoke about both of us. Natalie Miller spoke almost to tears. So did Mr. Rankin's daughter.

Margaret Shoe, a History Teacher, that I had the pleasure of working with for 20 years - (I also had her daughters in class) got up to speak and began to summarize my career. Shortly thereafter, she began to read a letter from the Governor of North Carolina - Mike Easley.

I was being presented "The Order of the Longleaf Pine" The Highest Award that can be given for a civilian in the State of North Carolina for dedication and years of service.

Wow! What an Honor!!

Information on the Order of The Long Leaf Pine
Longleaf Pine information from the Governors Office

Yes, there were newspaper articles. My recognition even made the Charlotte Television Station WCNC News 6 - 36. Links to the Newspaper articles are here:

Mooresville Tribune

"For Outdoors-Loving Teacher, It's on to the Next Adventure"

By MELINDA SKUTNICK
Friday, June 13, 2008

The Salisbury Post

Landis Resident, Firefighter, Teacher Honored with Long Leaf Pine Award

By Sarah Nagem
snagem @salisburypost.com

Friday, June 20, 2008

What a Send Off!!!!

My Last Day At School

2008-06-27T20:41:00.000-07:00

"My Last Day At School"
Click Photo To Enlarge

Celebrating 75 Years of the CCC

2008-06-22T21:12:00.000-07:00

Former Supt. Gary Everhardt and David Barlow

Former BRP Superintendent Dan Brown

Gary Everhardt
Dr. Harley Jolley
Linda Brown

Representative Ray Rapp presents
The Order of The Long Leaf Pine

President FDR introduces the four CCC members

On Thursday, June 19th, I attended a wonderful event at the Claxton Farm in Weaverville, NC to recognize 4 Civilian Conservation Corps members for their contributions with the building of the Blue Ridge Parkay and to celebrate the release of Harley Jolley's new book "The Magnificant Army of Youth and Peace" In addition, Dr. Jolley and all persons present were treated to a visit by President FDR. Conversations were had relative to the work done by the CCC members as well as the book.
Shortly after discussing the book and the contributions of the CCC, Representative Ray Rapp presented Dr. Harley Jolley with the "Order of the Long Leaf Pine" The Order of the Long Leaf Pine, created in 1965, is the highest civilian honor that can be granted in the U.S. state of North Carolina. The Order of the Long Leaf Pine is among the most prestigious awards presented by the Governor of North Carolina. The Order of the Long Leaf Pine is presented to individuals who have a proven record of extraordinary service to the state.
In addition to the presentation of the Order of the Long Leaf Pine, Dan Lundsford the President of Mars Hill College spoke about Dr. Jolley and time spent in his class. Also, a lovely artwork was presented to Dr. Jolley which was a view from Waterrock Knob. Finally, Patrick Flaherty of the Blue Ridge Parkway shared a song titled "Cutting Rock and Building Trail (The CCC Boys)" with all present.
Many supporters of the Parkway were present. The event was organized by the BRP Foundation and its Executive Director Houck M. Medford. Many members of the Friends of the Blue Ridge Parkway were present, as well as a good number of the Blue Ridge Parkway Employees and Alumni Association. Also present were Gary Everhardt and Dan Brown - former Superintendents of the Blue Ridge Parkway.

To view this story in the Asheville Citizen Times Click Here.

Tim Pegram's Book

2008-06-17T21:20:00.000-07:00

"The Blue Ridge Parkway By Foot - A Park Ranger's Memoir"

By Tim Pegram

Click Here

for

Friends of the Blue Ridge Parkway

As skillfully as early landscape architects planned the Blue Ridge Parkway to "lie lightly upon the land," author Tim Pegram has crafted a delightful journey in words to pay tribute to his years as a National Park Service park ranger and his endeavor to be the first person to through-hike the linear park's 469 miles. I don't know when I have enjoyed a book more! I have chosen to read, and reread, it at a leisurely pace, much like Pegram's 41-day walk, or a relaxed drive along the Parkway. That way, I can stop at all the overlooks, savor each person, place, view, milepost, story, and insight, and look forward to what lies around the next bend, on the next page. Written in a personable, engaging style, this book is sure to become a treasured favorite of everyone who loves the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Kathryn Brett review on Amazon.com

The "Big Idea"

2008-06-12T00:18:00.000-07:00

It had been nearly 30 years since I left the Blue Ridge Parkway for a career in Public Education when I noticed an article in the Salisbury Post about a retired Park Ranger who was Backpacking the Parkway. This was a feat that had never been done before. As I read the article, I noticed that it was Tim Pegram, my colleague from 1974 and 1975. We had worked as Seasonal Interpretive Park Rangers at the Museum of NC Minerals at Gillespie Gap Mile Post 331.3 near Spruce Pine, NC.

Tim recently published his book "The Blue Ridge Parkway By Foot" A Park Rangers Memoir. His wonderful book weaves the magic of the Parkway and its people, its places, and its history with stories of his career as a Protection Ranger in several of the Districts that he worked in.
Immediately after I turned in my retirement papers I called Tim to let him know that I planned on repeating his Thru Hike on the Parkway. What a great way to "Bookend a Career teaching Geology and Astronomy in High School and College.

The next question was - How could I make it different?

Tim suggested that I add ~10 miles to the walk by starting at Jarman Gap in Shenandoah National Park and that way I would have backpacked the original Blue Ridge Parkway Section 1A - the first section completed. This section had been deeded over to Shenandoah Nat. Park in 1961. Next, I would continue onto the current Blue Ridge Parkway at Rockfish Gap at Milepost 0 and would then only have 469 more miles to go to arrive in Cherokee, NC.

There are definite ground rules that I have established for this experience. They are listed below.

1. Make myself very visible - People driving cars do not expect to see a backpacker on a curvy roadway. Flourescent Green and Orange and retroreflective I will be.
2. No overnight stays in Motels, Hotels, or Lodges.
3. No Fires.
4. Keep a neat appearance. I am not homeless - my home for these 40 days is just a long and winding road.
5. No Firearms. They are illegal on the Parkway.
6. I will carry a Cell Phone but it is for a weekly check in only.
7. Resupplys will take place in Roanoke, I-77, Boone- Blowing Rock area, and Asheville.

I really want to make this event unique. I am trying right now to decide how to best use this event to raise funds to dig wells in underdeveloped countries through an organization like World Vision. Since I am a Captain in the Fire Service and involved in Urban Search and Rescue, I am also looking into the possibility of using a particular brand of boots for later promotion.

More to come later. I need to go and finish packing. I'll bet you can't tell how excited I am.

Dave Barlow