Luray Caverns

We arrived at Canyon Country Campground in Wellsboro, Pennsylvania late Thursday afternoon. This park was situated right next to the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon; yet another canyon which is also referred to as, The Grand Canyon of the East. Although this area is considered the darkest quadrant on the east coast, the sun did not set until 8:00 pm and we were able to get a fantastic view of the canyon. The grandeur of the canyon appeared nestled between the treetops, faintly illuminated by the setting sun. Now, after viewing both Canyons which lay claim to being the “Grand Canyon of the East,” it is difficult to say which is more picturesque. Although these canyons are so different in appearance, both are a must see and equally Grand. The following morning we got an early start as we headed to Luray, Virginia home to the incredible cave known as The Luray Caverns. Honestly, we were not aware of the magnificence of the canyons, nor were we aware of their popularity. These canyons attract over 500,000 visitors annually. The Luray Caverns proved to be the most spectacular attraction on our travels, for these caverns have to be one of the most remarkable sights I have ever witnessed. The mile and a half long trail that winds through the cave led me on an amazing journey deep underground. The entire experience seemed somewhat surreal as I explored this subterranean wonderland. The Smithsonian Institution reported, “It is safe to say that there is probably no other cave in the world more completely and profusely decorated with stalactite and stalagmite ornamentation than that of Luray”. Additionally, one of the chambers houses an organ that is connected to a network of rubber mallets that strike stalactite matching a musical scale. We were even lucky enough to hear the mellifluous tones produced by this incredible instrument. The following day we drove to Holly Point campground in Wake Forest, North Carolina. There, I was able to visit my best friend Dalton, whom I have known since early elementary school. He moved to Creedmoor, NC recently, after accepting a position with a building supply company. It was fun having a chance to see him settled in and happy with his decision. Dalton is a hard and conscientious worker; I know he will do well!