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Stephen Catalano

The granite outcropping makes for some epic foreground in your photos! It's a safe hike, too. I'm not afraid of heights, but most folks shouldn't have a problem with it.

During peak season, the traffic going up to Grandfather Mountain SP can be unbelievable. Avoid it by knocking out this hike! Personally, I think the SP can be skipped so you won't miss out on much.

Grandfather mountain is pricey, so I tend to just stick to the blue ridge parkway. That being said, if you're planning on spending the whole day, I'd do it! It's a beautiful park with incredible views and plenty of activities.

This is a no brainer. Easily one of the most beautiful places in Italy, and quite possibly the world. When you're on this hike, make sure you stop in at one of the many restaurants that overlook the ocean.

Came up here for sunset and wasn't disappointed. Bring along your tripod and wait til the light gets really low. Its a beautiful spot! Bring a headlamp so you can see back to your car!

While I don't do too much climbing myself, I came here with some friends who absolutely loved the area. Would recommend if you're looking to climb!

There are a couple campsites along the trail that I saw, once with a fire ring and a nice area to set up a tent. The views are tremendous and I brought along my camera for some photos. Bring a polarizer if you're shooting in mid-day! Really makes those clouds pop.

Did this trail as a run and really enjoyed it. Big, open meadows made for a relaxing run with expansive views. The tree was fun to finally see, as I'd heard it about it over the years but never saw in person.

This loop is phenomenal. If you go in the reverse direction, it can be a little difficult (the bulk of the miles and steep climb), but it's worth it if you'd like to camp at the top for sunrise/sunset. Also got to cool off in some of the pools!

Reminded me quite a bit of all the fire-watch towers out west. We don't have many of those here on the east coast (that are accessible) so this is a rare find. Highly recommend this one.

Stumbled upon this adventure not too long ago and decided I'd check it out. Was pretty shocked at how fun this hike was. The rock formations make for some epic photos (forgot the camera on this day hike) so come during sunset and make your way back down by headlamp!

If you've got snow coming in and have been itching to get on your X-Country ski's/snowshoes, then go for it! If you're not local, this might be difficult to time properly, but its definitely fun if you're able to pull it off.

The open field at the summit reminded me of the Roan Highlands area of NC. Its rare that you get such wide open views, so put this one on your list!

Brought my pup along with me for this one and it was a great hike! I think he was just as blown away by the views as I was. I think we'll try and come back to do an overnight, cause there are some beautiful campsite areas.

I am in no way, shape, or form a great MTB rider, so Enchanted Forest was the perfect starter trail for me. If you're looking to wade into the MTB world, its a great place to 'catch the bug'!

This is definitely a great alternative to SML for canoeing/kayaking. Its peaceful, not too large, and the rentals down there are VERY affordable. If you're a local.. I'm jealous!

This hike offers some fantastic views for landscape photographers. I came during the evening hours and the light was soft, made for a few calm photos of the cove area.

Tons of moss and fern that you don't see much. Made for some great photos. It stayed pretty cool back in the woods, too, even on a relatively warm day.

This was a good camp spot. Met up with a buddy here and it was basecamp for a few days of hiking. Out tent site was a little rocky, but nothing too bad.

Yea, this one is forever saved in my book. Its a great hike with views that make the trip worth it. I came up here for sunset and will probably make my way back for a sunrise trail run!

Came here to scope out the views for photos and was impressed. Quiet trail and offers a good place to take photos at the tail end of the day.

Nice summer swimming hole! I showed up relatively early and it wasn't crowded at all. Bring a few friends and hang out!

Pretty great spot for bouldering if you're into it! Not only that, but the rock offers some really cool textures for macro photography.

Nice paddle on the James with tons of bird/wildlife activity. I only spent a half day, but would probably do it again!