High Shoal Falls

We recently moved to North Carolina, so my wife could start a new job. I am enjoying living here. One my favorite things about North Carolina is their great State Park system. Most of the state parks are free, and in beautiful locations.

South Mountains State Park is a great example of this. The South Mountains are one of the many ranges in central and western North Carolina, before you reach the main body of the Appalachians. Lynley and I had a picnic here on our way to Lake Lure a few weeks ago. We decided to take the 3 mile round trip hike to High Shoal Falls. The hike was beautiful, and started out easy, along the river. Eventually though, it started to climb, and then it was up 1/2 mile of steep stairs to the base of the falls. I was proud of Lynley, even though she is about 6 months pregnant she made the climb.

The falls are definitely worth the effort. They are large and beautiful. Being so high up in the mountains, the flora had changed to mostly evergreen trees, and it was beautiful. If you ever get a chance, it is well worth the trip.

I created a focus on the falls by making the greatest contrast be the dark of the rocks, against the white of the falls. I also used the lighter green of the trees on top to show the way the sun shone through them against the light sky.

I hope you enjoy the painting!