‘Tis the Season for a Good Hike
‘Tis the season for a good hike (well, in C’ville hiking is year-round but this is my favorite time!). A gem of a walk/run is right around the corner from Clifton at Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello. The gorgeous Saunders Trail was blazed by the crew at Monticello itself so it’s in impeccable shape. It’s wide, boarded most of the way, umbrellaed in spectacular old trees with views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the city of Charlottesville. It’s a manageable four miles and accessible for wheelchairs and strollers. It’s perfect for children to run and skip, too! It’s never crowded (a secret that I am letting out of the bag) so a stroll or run are always possible and benches along the way for a rest if needed.
If you have a chance, stop by the Farm Table Café for a fresh sandwich or cold drink and don’t miss the garden and gift shop.
Oh, I almost forgot. When about halfway down (park for free in the Monticello parking lot) you may catch the scent of fried chicken coming from the historical Michie Tavern. I was there a couple of weeks ago and it is hands down the best fried chicken I’ve had in a long time! So crispy and moist. Yummy! I didn’t indulge, but the corn bread and mashed potatoes with gravy are considered a must!
Spring is here with everything starting to bloom here, especially the red buds that I look forward to every year. May will bring hundreds of peonies here to the Clifton for all to enjoy!
See links below for pictures and more information.
Happy Spring!
Cheers,
Ann
https://www.monticello.org/visit/the-saunders-monticello- trail/