Continuing on, we turned at the split for Spur Trail to head out to Sunset Overlook with a nice view over West Jefferson.
Back on the main trail, it was another half-mile or so to Jefferson Overlook, the uppermost overlook along the entrance road. I think this one has the nicest views.
Just past here, the trail went up stone steps above some rock outcrops. In the past, it was a rock scramble to get up but they had since built the stairs.
The trail ended shortly after at the summit parking area. There were some cool chicken of the woods mushrooms growing on a tree in the picnic area.
From here, we got on summit trail up to the top, but there isn't much of a view here, so got on Rhododendron Trail. I spotted a hickory tussock moth caterpillar along the trail.
There were a couple spots to catch a nice view from the trail.
But the best views were from the far end of the trail at Luther Rock. We stopped here and took a break to enjoy the views.
Then we finished up the loop and hiked back.
We had worked up an appetite and stopped in West Jefferson for lunch at Boondocks Brewing. They have nice covered outdoor seating so we could dine with Alex. After lunch, we stopped at Barks and Co. so Alex could pick out some treats. It was a tough choice, but he went with the bacon bits. Then we headed to Boone and parked at the trailhead for Boone United Trail. This trail leads from Boone United Methodist Church through a conservation easement along Howard Knob.
It was moderately steep, but lots of switchbacks so it wasn't too bad.
Near the top, there was a loop and I think there was a second loop, but we missed the turn and then all downhill back to the car.
We had a light dinner and then checked into the hotel in Lenoir for the evening.
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