Star City

Roanoke, Virginia, might not be the first place that springs to mind when you hear the nickname "Star City." But once you visit, and hike to the Star, you'll understand.

I was on my way to Blacksburg and had an afternoon to kill, so I decided to do a little hiking up Mill Mountain. It was chanterelle season, and I spotted some along the way, though they were getting a little crusty. This cluster was very decidedly NOT a troop of chanterelles.

There were also lichens, Rose of Sharon (Rosasharn, for the Steinbeck fans), chicory, and sweeping views from the top.

All in all, an excellent hike and a great way to spend the afternoon.