Eliza the Hiking Dog in the Appalachians, Western North Carolina

I sat for Eliza last summer and was thrilled to be asked to come back!
Last year, my car was suffering and needed towing and repairs. This year, my new ride performed beautifully, so it was much more comfortable to drive in and out of the mountains.
Eliza lives near Mars Hill in Western North Carolina. It is a rugged and beautiful area in the Appalachians and only a few miles from Tennessee.
It was a beautiful early spring and wildflowers appeared in the woods and fields. The trees are a little behind up in the mountains, but early redbud makes a splash.
Everyone tries to figure out what breeds she is, but we just don't know. Catahoula and pug?
Heinz 57 is the best answer! She's a beautiful mutt and a very happy dog. Her patterns are remarkable and she gets compliments everywhere.
Eliza has a ton of energy and loves to race up the hills around her house. She is FAST! And has such a great time, no matter the weather or the setting.
We went hiking on the Appalachian Trail near Hog's Back shelter out of Sam's Gap. We saw one through-hiker heading north. And we talked to a few people and met a few shy dogs in the woods. There weren't any leaves yet, so it's possible to see the mountains, which just roll into the distance in constant ridges and valleys.
Another day, we hiked in Tennessee at Rocky Fork State Park and followed the Flint Creek and Flint Mountain loops for an 8 mile steep and lovely hike. It started out crossing a stream with no bridge, but our feet dried as we walked. Despite the gray skies and questionable clouds, the creek tumbling out of the mountains for miles and the views through the trees were mesmerizing. Plus there were snacks and excellent company.
To be safe, I carried bear spray. I saw a lot of evidence of bobcat and small animals like possum and racoon, plus deer tracks, but no bear evidence. But there were no people either, so we felt very adventurous.
Other days, we just ran around the woods near Eliza's house. It is very steep - 250 ft straight up immediately behind the house, and ridges for miles. She runs circles around me, but she always comes back to check.
Weaverville is a cool little town north of Asheville. We love the nature park for walking. Even though it's an on-leash situation, there is still water to get into, which is the best part. Lots of squirrels taunting us, but we turn the other cheek.
In the center of Weaverville, there is the excellent Pet Pantry, where Eliza gets to choose a yummy new treat (we went with Buddy's Biscuits, bacon and cheese this time) and they give out free bacon snacks (to Eliza, not to me). There is a huge selection, it's hard to choose just one. All quality stuff too.
My second favorite is Blue Mountain Pizza, which has a nice general store style front porch, is pet-friendly, and hand tosses their delicious pizza and slices to order. Bonus - they make their own ice cream! I went for cannoli this time, but that ice cream is on my list for sure. Eliza is really good hanging out under the table, having a few biscuits, and ready to go on cue.
One of us saw the weather forecast, so we deliberately front-loaded the week with big hiking and walking. Then we got to chill out when the snowy days came. It wasn't big snow, but I don't own an ice brush or want to drive mountains in any snow. However, getting cozy on the couch with the gas fireplace was a big hit!
We took some little walks in the hills to admire the scenery. I thought it was beautiful, even with the bare trees and moody skies. And, of course I had to make a tiny snow... chicken? We had fun rambling around up there.
On the warmer days, we got to try the Solo Stove bonfire, which was really easy to use. And the setting is perfect. Swinging benches overlooking the steep rolling yard with redbud trees and the rustic barns across the street. It's truly an idyllic spot.
I love sitting for Eliza. And it's easy to see she likes her vacations with me. It's an honor to earn the affection of a pet that misses their hoomans. I hope to come back and hang with this little rascal again!

[@bluebird4739]

Beautiful scenery . It is quite heartwarming to see that connection you share with Eliza. I especially liked the comment: " one of us saw the weather report" Great video...❤

[@meegansits]

Thank you 😊 Yes, it was Eliza 😄

[@DanielLynch-hv8nh]

That was such a great video, I can tell she really cares about you!!!

[@meegansits]

Thank you, I had fun making it! And she is always trying to sneak kisses 😄