Anna Ruby Falls

 Friday, we revisited our favorite German-themed town of Helen, and then continued on our way up toward Unicoi State Park.  We hiked up to Anna Ruby falls and picnicked alongside the river.  J had the day off because of Pioneer day (I know it is a Utah state holiday, but because Deseret Industries is Church owned, he gets the holiday off as well!).

 The falls are so large that it is hard to get a good picture of the whole falls.  The was the best we could do.  Below are some close-up pictures.   The falls are split, which is why it is so hard to get the full falls into one frame.

 

Zuri's favorite part of the hike was throwing things into the water.  She just loves it!

 

At the visitors center, they had on overlook to the river where you could throw some food into the river for the fish (trout).  Zuri had a blast feeding the fish.

After the hike we stopped for a picnic--and to cool off in the river; it was a really hot day.

The trees are so dense and grow so straight and oh-so tall.  Zuri and I are near the thick tree that is slightly leaning into the path. 

After the hike we took a scenic drive up through Dahlonega and back home.  We found a couple really interesting things along the way.

There was this huge pile of rocks in the middle of the road on a roundabout.  So we investigated a little further:

The pile of rocks marks the grave of a Cherokee princess.  It is custom to drop a stone on her grave for each person who passes by for good fortune.  There is also a magic springs about 3/4 of a mile away called Porter Springs.  Unfortunately, we didn't stop by the springs--it is on our to-see list though!

 There is a vine that grows here which is rumored to have been brought over from Japan.  This vine invades everything.  It grows on power lines, trees, houses, fences, anything.  Here is a picture of an abandoned house and how the vine has overtaken it.  You can only really see a portion of the roof.  It is crazy.

She will wear the hat in the car, but outside when it is actually needed?  No way.

For any of you who are fans of The Office--agritourism is a real thing. 

....and finally...just for Emily...