March - July 2022 Featured Photos
Scroll down to view Steve Madden’s featured photos for March 27 through July 18 2022.
All photos in this collection are Copyright 2022 Steven L Madden.
STF718 July 18 2022
World’s Fair Site
Between the Tennessee Amphitheatre and Knoxville Convention Center at World’s Fair Park is The Sunsphere.
STF718a July 18 2022
Reflections of 1982
Reflected in the glass exterior of Knoxville Convention Center are the Candy Factory and Tennessee Amphitheatre.
STF717 July 17 2022
Eastern Sky
“Early to bed and early to rise…”
I fell asleep around 1am yet awoke just past 5am this Sunday morning. I left home soon after waking to chase a summer sunrise.
This view is from a student housing community called The Heights of Knoxville. Fortunate University of Tennessee students awake daily to similar scenes of the eastern sky.
STF716 July 16 2022
Road Prong Branch
This refreshing scene was near the start of Chimney Tops Trail in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
I captured this image from a fallen tree that had been converted into a bridge over Road Prong Branch.
STF715 July 15 2022
Sun Day on Friday
A bright sun greeted me this morning at Ijams Nature Center and Forks of the River Wildlife Refuge, both situated beside the Tennessee River in South Knoxville, Tennessee.
Acres of Sunflowers like these faced the eastern sky whose rising sun reflected brilliantly on the river’s surface.
This is going to be a good Friday!
STF715a July 15 2022
Yearly Feast
Acres are planted with Sunflowers annually at Forks of the River Wildlife Refuge in South Knoxville.
Flower heads are important for food to bees, butterflies and other pollinators. Seeds, flowers and stalks feed deer, mourning doves and over 40 species of song birds.
Enjoy this Sunflower extravaganza before the flowers fade.
STF714 July 14 2022
Fort Loudoun
This is a view of reconstructed Fort Loudoun from Tellico Lake near Vonore, Tennessee.
Completed in 1757, Fort Loudoun was built to help garner Cherokee support at the outset of the French and Indian War. It was one of the first British outposts west of the Appalachian Mountains.
After several Cherokee chiefs were massacred in South Carolina, the Cherokee laid seige to Fort Loudoun in March 1760. Learn more by visiting Fort Loudoun State Historic Park.
STF713 July 13 2022
Walk On The Water
At Ijams Nature Center in Knoxville, Tennessee, you can walk on Mead’s Quarry Lake using the floating walkway.
Better yet, you can swim in the spring-fed lake on a hot summer day.
STF712 July 12 2022
Missing Lady
My 150-minute walk began and ended at University of Tennessee Gardens in Knoxville, Tennessee. I was glad to learn from a volunteer that produce from food plants grown at UT Gardens is donated to a local food bank.
Missing from UT Gardens today was this sophisticated lady whom I photographed there a few months ago. Have you seen her elsewhere? I wonder where she is now.
STF711 July 11 2022
Fringed Mushroom
I spotted this fine fringed Mushroom while hiking Lookout Tower Trail at Frozen Head State Park, near Wartburg, Tennessee.
STF710 July 10 2022
The Garden Spot
Jonathan and I pursued and finally found an elusive and remote location in Frozen Head State Park called The Garden Spot.
I do not typically pile onto a cairn, but after our effort to locate the out-of-the-way spot, I chose to add a small, flat rock to this cairn.
If you have visited The Garden Spot, I tip my hat to you!
STF709 July 9 2022
Return to Frozen Head
I most recently visited Frozen Head State Park in April to pursue wildflowers. My return there this week was well timed.
Hard rain last night made me glad we camped in my Falcon trailer rather than in a tent. Also due to overnight rain, swollen waters churned swiftly over Debord Falls this morning.
STF709a July 9 2022
Emory Gap Encounter
A mile past Debord Falls, Jonathan and I rock hopped Emory Gap Branch to see this perspective of Emory Gap Falls.
It was my closest encounter with this waterfall at Frozen Head State Park near Wartburg, Tennessee.
STF708 July 8 2022
Tellico Highlight
Jonathan and I were privileged to ride personal watercraft to a remote cove where a pair of Ospreys nested about ten feet above the surface of Tellico Lake.
This was a highlight of a rare visit here in Tennessee with family members from Colorado and Ohio.
STF707 July 7 2022
Beaver River?
I returned to Collier Preserve in Powell, Tennessee this morning. My objective was to see how 1.5 inches of recent rainfall swelled Beaver Creek since my visit there on July 1.
Sometime this morning, the stream overflowed its banks. It had receded somewhat by the time I arrived. Even then, Beaver Creek reminded me of the Muddy Mississippi.
STF706 July 6 2022
Grand View
This grand view greeted me as I drove along I-40 from Knoxville toward Seven Islands State Birding Park.
STF706a July 6 2022
Lip-Smacking Good Hiking
An advantage of hiking in summer: At the right time and place, summer fruits are ripe and ready for picking.
Yesterday at Seven Islands State Birding Park, countless blackberry plants were heavy with both red and ripe fruit. Now and for a few more days, hiking at Seven Islands will be lip-smacking good.
STF705 July 5 2022
Coral Honeysuckle
From a sign at Seven Islands State Birding Park, I learned:
“The nectar of the Coral Honeysuckle is one of the Ruby-Throated Hummingbird’s favorite food sources. This plant attracts many other pollinators and is a great native alternative to harmful invasive vines like Japanese Honeysuckle, Periwinkle and English Ivy.”
Celebrate
American
Independence
STF703 July 3 2022
Mourning Dove
Until a few years ago, Robin Redbreast was my favorite bird.
Since moving to South Woodlawn Neighborhood, I see and hear a profusion of birds. After observing their characteristics for several years, my new favorite is the peaceful Mourning Dove.
STF702 July 2 2022
Anderson Hall
I hiked at Concord Park in West Knoxville this morning. My photos there were of the marina on Concord Lake.
I took Chinese takeout to Maryville College where I picnicked under a giant tree beside Anderson Hall. After lunch I walked a few easy miles in College Woods.
Anderson Hall is named in honor of Presbyterian minister Isaac L. Anderson who founded Maryville College in 1819.
STF701 July 1 2022
Collier Preserve
Morning light filtered through the trees as I walked the short, easy, ADA-approved walkway at Collier Preserve in Powell, Tennessee.
STF701a July 1 2022
Beaver Creek
Side trails from Collier Preserve’s ADA-approved walkway lead to Beaver Creek and idyllic scenes like this.
To reach Collier Preserve, take I-75 to exit 112 and travel west a short distance to 330 W. Emory Road.
STF630 June 30 2022
Forty Years Later…
Knoxville hosted the World’s Fair May through October 1982.
I served as a public relations intern for the World’s Fair beginning in June. That same month, I married and began my AAA career.
I revisited World’s Fair Park this morning and thoroughly enjoyed reminiscing about 1982 in my hometown.
STF630a June 30 2022
Still Shining After All These Years
Only a few structures from the 1982 World’s Fair remain at World’s Fair Park. The most recognizable is The Sunsphere, seen here from East Tennessee Veterans Memorial beyond the Court of Flags.
STF630b June 30 2022
You Should Have Been There!
I wonder what portion of current Knoxville residents were alive and visited the World’s Fair in 1982. I suppose fewer than fifty percent.
One hundred percent of us should experience “You Should Have Been There!” The 40th anniversary exhibit is at East Tennessee History Museum in downtown Knoxville now through October 9.
STF629 June 29 2022
Morning Contrails
Contrails appeared to form a “V” overhead at 7:10am.
Surely jets followed the earth’s contour as they passed over Knoxville, Tennessee. However, their contrails created the illusion that rockets had taken off at 30 degree angles.
STF629a June 29 2022
Evening Clouds
This was South Knoxville’s sunset spectacle at 9:05pm the same summer day when I witnessed “V” contrails early morning.
STF629 and STF629a were bookends to a good day of hiking and hikography.
STF628 June 28 2022
Hanging On
We walked through wet clouds part of today. Views from Andrews Bald and Clingmans Dome were less than stellar.
Flame Azaleas at Andrews Bald were generally past their peak flowering season. Thankfully, some shrubs displayed vibrant blooms like these.
STF627 June 27 2022
Let Nature Be Your Teacher
“Come forth into the light of things, let nature be your teacher.” William Wordsworth
“Just living is not enough…One must have sunshine, freedom, and a little flower.” Hans Christian Anderson
“People from a planet without flowers would think we must be mad with joy the whole time to have such things about us.” Iris Murdoch
“Forget not that the earth delights to feel your bare feet and the winds long to play with your hair.” Kahlil Gibran
“Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished.” Lao Tzu
“In all things of nature there is something of the marvelous.” Aristotle
“Keep your love of nature, for that is the true way to understand art more and more.” Vincent van Gogh
“Look deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better.” Albert Einstein
“Those who dwell among the beauties and mysteries of the earth are never alone or weary of life.” Rachel Carson
STF626 June 26 2022
Foothills Parkway
I opted to drive rather than hike this morning. A half hour from my Knoxville home, I turned off US 321 and drove eastward along Foothills Parkway. (The 17-mile southwestern section of Foothills Parkway is closed this summer.)
Dense forest predominates along the Parkway, occasionally opening to reveal breathtaking views.
STF626a June 26 2022
Wears Valley From Foothills Parkway
I drove about ten miles along Foothills Parkway from US 321 near Walland, Tennessee toward Pigeon Forge. After I parked my Explorer, I walked a half mile each direction along the Parkway to acquire unobstructed views.
I took 75 photos this morning and decided a half dozen were worthy of publishing. This view of Wears Valley was among my favorites.
STF625 June 25 2022
Magnolia Blossom
A bee arrived precisely on time as I shot this photograph.
I finished my greenway walk between UT Gardens and Marine Park when I noticed elegant and graceful blossoms in a Southern Magnolia tree near the University of Tennessee veterinary teaching hospital.
STF624 June 24 2022
Island Home Greenspace
As I walked between Will Skelton Greenway and Suttree Landing Park, I noticed this greenspace in front of an Island Home residence.
I envision my lawn at Little House Under The Maple adorned with wildflowers someday. I will do well to emulate native plant gardens like this one.
STF623 June 23 2022
View From Tharp Trace
I was privileged to see this early morning view from the south overlook of Mead’s Quarry Lake along Tharp Trace at Ijams Nature Center.
STF622 June 22 2022
Nature’s Garden
Roan Gardens is a natural occurrence of Catawba Rhodendron shrubs a short but spectacular drive from Roan Mountain, Tennessee.
Visit Roan Gardens when Rhododendron blooms are at peak and you can imagine you are in the Garden of Eden. Although at Roan Gardens you will have LOTS of company.
STF621 June 21 2022
Roan High Bluff
I hiked northwest from Carver’s Gap along the Appalachian Trail past Roan High Knob and veered onto Cloudland Trail near Roan Gardens. This was my view from the terminus of Cloudland Trail.
You can drive from Carver’s Gap to Roan Gardens and experience the easy 1.2 mile hike along Cloudland Trail to Roan High Bluff.
STF620 June 20 2022
Paramount Perspective
This view evokes paramount perspective. “What is man that You are mindful of him?” (Psalm 8:4 NKJV)
What awesome force sculpted mountains like the Roan Highlands?
STF619 June 19 2022
Roan Sunset
I celebrated Father’s Day by hiking, camping and chasing a sunset at Roan Mountain in Upper East Tennessee.
This spectacle was visible from Round Bald less than a mile along the Appalachian Trail from Carver’s Gap.
STF618 June 18 2022
Blanketed By Fog
This sunrise scene made me glad I drove a half hour north from Knoxville to Rocky Top, Tennessee.
Fog blanketed Clinch River below the dam, and while I watched it flowed up and over 265 foot Norris Dam.
STF618a June 18 2022
Shrouded By Fog
Shrouded beneath this ribbon of fog is Clinch River.
I was out of bounds above the West Overlook at Norris Dam State Park when I captured this sunrise scene.
STF617 June 17 2022
Elle Este French Broad
The year-round focal point at Seven Islands State Birding Park is French Broad River.
Her headwaters are in Transylvania County, North Carolina. Here in Sevier County, Tennessee, she is shallow and serene. Ellle este magnifique!
STF616 June 16 2022
Picture Painting
Another of the summer flowers I spied showing off at Seven Islands State Birding Park near Kodak, Tennessee.
I do not know the plant’s name; I will call her Margarene.
STF615 June 15 2022
Flamboyant Flowers
Along with Deer and Rabbits, showy summer flowers abound now at Seven Islands State Birding Park near Kodak, Tennessee.
I do not know this flamboyant flower’s name. I will call her Violetta.
STF614 June 14 2022
Shades of Green and Red
A shrub at University of Tennessee Gardens displayed multi-colored leaves whose shape convinced me the plant was a Redbud variant.
STF613 June 13 2022
Orange Morning
An orange sky across Tennessee River from Ijams Nature Center captured my attention early one morning.
My photograph was out of focus so I opted to “paint” the scene.
STF612 June 12 2022
Our River City
I started Sunday by capturing this view near the end of Riverside Drive where Holston River and French Broad River converge to form Tennessee River.
STF611 June 11 2022
Many Splendors
One of many splendors I encountered atop Gregory Bald in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
STF610 June 10 2022
Enriched Rich Mountain
Morning mist enriched this view of Rich Mountain, seen from Cades Cove Loop Road near Townsend, Tennessee.
STF610a June 10 2022
Cove View From Gregory Bald
Steve H. and I bumped along Parson’s Branch Road from Cades Cove Visitor Center to Gregory Bald trailhead. After our four-mile climb, we enjoyed blooming Flame Azaleas and this view of Cades Cove and Rich Mountain.
In some ways, our adventure had just began. We descended to Steve’s car, he drove the remainder of Parson’s Branch Road and we survived The Tail of the Dragon on our way back to Maryville, Tennessee.
STF609 June 9 2022
Rest In Peace
Around 1786, James White built a cabin and later helped to expand it into a settlement called White’s Fort. White donated the land upon which First Presbyterian Church was built circa 1792.
James White and other prominent Knoxvillians are buried in the church cemetery. Among them is William Blount, once Governor of the Southwest Territory. When Blount moved the territorial capital to White’s Fort, he renamed it Knoxville in honor of Henry Knox.
STF608 June 8 2022
Today’s Feature: Yesterday
It was so glorious I want to share one more image from yesterday morning along Tennessee River at Ijams Nature Center.
STF607 June 7 2022
Look! Up In The Sky!
I usually fix my eyes on the ground while hiking to avoid tripping. By doing so, I miss many wonderful sights overhead.
I walked a gravel road from Island Home Avenue toward the Tennessee River in Ijams Nature Center. Thankfully, this overhead scene grabbed my attention.
STF607a June 7 2022
Majestic Sky
This is what I saw after walking the gravel road to the bank of the Tennessee River.
I marveled to see this majestic sky and its reflection on the river surface.
STF606 June 6 2022
Mason Bee Hive
I learned more about Mason Bees at Knoxville Botanical Gardens and Arboretum. I read that they are generalist pollinators, meaning they collect pollen and nectar from a variety of flowers. Adult Mason Bees are active in early Spring, so they are excellent pollinators for orchards.
A local Boy Scout troup built the Mason Bee Hives at KBGA using hollowed out Bamboo stems.
STF605 June 5 2022
Here Comes The Sun
“Here comes the sun and I say it’s all right.”
(From a Beatles song written by George Harrison.)
STF604 June 4 2022
All The Buzz
I rode my bike along the Tennessee River this morning, and stopped to rest at University of Tennessee Gardens. There I discovered several fascinating artworks with a common theme: All the Buzz: A Bee Exhibit.
I photographed several bee-utiful artworks, including this one by Emery and Laura Bryant.
STF603 June 3 2022
A Magical, Mystical Place
Seven Islands State Birding Park near Kodak, Tennessee was a magical place this morning after overnight rain.
Misty fog lifting from the French Broad River seemed, well, mystical. For the first hour I was the sole human seen by scores of Deer and dozens of Rabbits.
STF602 June 2 2022
Watch It Grow
I noticed several similar-looking Mushrooms around a rotting tree during my hike along Ross Marble Trail at Ijams Nature Center in Knoxville, Tennessee.
The life cycle of a Mushroom Fungus is one to four days, including time below ground. When a Mushroom becomes visible, with patience you can watch it grow.
STF601 June 1 2022
Face to Face
Typically, when I encounter White Tailed Deer, I see only their white tails as the animals bound away.
On this particular afternoon, a Doe stood her ground while I snapped her photo. Later, I noted pretty patches of white on her legs and neck and around her nose and eyes.
STF531 May 31 2022
Creatures Great and Small
I have learned these wild animal tendencies:
Most wild animals I never see because they sense my approach and make themselves scarce.
Some, like deer and rabbits, might allow me to see them but they keep a wary eye on me lest I venture too close.
This duck and her five ducklings paddled near the edge of Fountain City Lake in North Knoxville. Mother Duck seemed to know I would not enter the murky water to harm her babies.
A Day to Remember
Memorial Day May 30 2022
STF529 May 29 2022
Preference and Perspective
This morning, before attending church in Downtown Knoxville, Tennessee, I drove a quarter hour east to capture this scene.
Today I chose to feature the acres of farm land and to minimize the city skyline. Compare this to the second image in the My Hometown collection, which I photographed from the same vantage point in March 2021.
STF528 May 28 2022
A.M. At Ijams
This scene welcomed me to Ijams Nature Center at 7a.m. today.
The sky above Tharp Trace reflected elegantly on Mead’s Quarry Lake.
STF527 May 27 2022
Perched Above Tellico Lake
Speeding across Tellico Lake on a Wave Runner at 40 mph is exhilarating. No wake mode is ideal for approaching a scene like this. Drifting with the engine off allowed me to photograph the birds, apparently without disturbing them.
Doug and I explored a cove close to where Tellico River flows into Tellico Lake when we discovered these twin Heron nests.
STF526 May 26 2022
Downtown Alley
I like it so much I have photographed this alley several times as I walked in Downtown Knoxville. I did so again yesterday. Funny thing: I don’t recall there being a tree in the picture before.
This downtown alley is perpendicular to Jackson Avenue, between Jackson and Vine.
STF525 May 25 2022
Sassafras Smile
I smiled more than usual today.
My barber started me smiling.
I beamed watching a duck and her five ducklings paddle near the edge of a pond.
Friendly artists I met made me laugh aloud.
Discussing the Beatles with David was great fun.
I enjoyed reading today’s mail from Teresa and others.
And, when I noticed seedlings waving in the breeze at Fountain City Park, I grinned from ear to ear. Sassafras leaves always make me smile.
STF524 May 24 2022
Suttree Landing
Suttree Landing Park is on the south bank of Tennessee River, and boasts this view of Downtown Knoxville.
Dogs pull their owners and parents push strollers along gravel and concrete paths.
A picnic pavilion shelters visitors from rain or sun when needed.
A floating deck helps to launch a kayak or paddle board into the river.
STF523 May 23 2022
Wet Sunset
According to the TVA Rain Gauge, 1.15 inches of rain fell in Knoxville, Tennessee today.
Sometimes when I venture out for a walk in the rain, I get an impression like this that makes me glad I got wet. Other times, I just get wet.
This sunset emerged when rain subsided after 8pm this evening. It made me glad.
STF523a May 23 2022
Best of Show
This is my favorite among two dozen photos I took during this evening’s show.
As with other horizontal photos on my website, this image does not precisely present the spectacle I saw with my eyes. Please let me know if you want to receive a print of this or another photo.
STF522 May 22 2022
Harmless Snake
A Roan Mountain State Park visitor pointed out this snake beneath a bridge that crosses Doe River. As the man said, a Banded Water Snake is harmless to humans.
From my vantage point, I took a half dozen photos of the captivating creature as it moved through the water then slithered up on a boulder to dry out in the sun. Fascinating!
STF522a May 22 2022
Mountain Laurel Time
Here is one last photo from my recent visit to Roan Mountain State Park. It is the first Mountain Laurel bloom I encountered this year.
Late May and early June promise to be timely for hiking area trails that feature Mountain Laurel shrubs in abundance. This is just the beginning.
STF521 May 21 2022
Doe, A Dear
Several times at Roan Mountain State Park I disturbed a deer while hiking remote trails. Each seemed fully grown but none had antlers, so I concluded they were Does. I was sorry to frighten them, yet amused by their snorts and white tails they flashed as they bounded away.
A different Doe greeted me warmly each time she saw me. She is Doe River, and she flowed gently into and out of time I invested near Roan Mountain, Tennessee. What a dear!
STF521a May 21 2022
Glad To Be Home
After five wonder-filled days near Roan Mountain, I returned home to Knoxville yesterday evening. The 15 degree increase in temperature made me question, “Am I glad to be home?”
This morning I resumed walking and noticing my surroundings. When I diverted from Chapman Highway to respond to a phone alert, I noticed this image of my hometown from Kerbela Temple parking lot.
My question was answered. Indeed, I am glad to be home.
STF520 May 20 2022
Raven Rock Panorama
This was my reward for hiking Roan Mountain State Park’s Raven Rock Trail yesterday evening.
I hiked to Raven Rock the fourth of four nights I overnighted at Roan Mountain State Park’s excellent campground. Having hiked all RMSP trails over three days, I rank Raven Rock as my top trail in the park. It was nice to save the best for last.
STF519 May 19 2022
From a Front Porch Swing
Rain arrived early afternoon while I visited historic Miller Farmstead at Roan Mountain State Park.
I sheltered on the front porch of the Miller house, completed by Nathaniel Miller in 1908. This view is from an inviting two-person swing at one end of the spacious porch.
STF519a May 19 2022
Appalachian Mountain Life
Rain fell hard for maybe ten minutes, then slacked, then stopped altogether.
I pointed past the “tree” and picket fence toward the rustic barn, which is now occupied by a 24-year-old Arabian horse.
My appreciation for Appalachian mountain life increased appreciably after my unhurried visit to Miller Farmstead on this rainy Thursday.
STF518 May 18 2022
Roan Sunrise
This sunrise scene is from a pull off of Tennessee route 143 above Roan Mountain State Park heading toward North Carolina.
Among my Appalachian experiences, the Roan Highlands are unmatched for majestic views, especially if you hike a few miles of the Appalachian Trail from Carver’s Gap.
STF517 May 17 2022
Close to a Pink Lady
My unplanned hike along 0.4 mile Tom Gray Trail in Tennessee’s Roan Mountain State Park was fortuitous.
I saw more than two dozen Pink Lady Slippers in bloom. Nowhere else have I seen so many of these favored flowers blooming so close together.
STF517a May 17 2022
Roan Highlands from Chestnut Ridge
This Roan Highlands vista is from a viewing platform high in Roan Mountain State Park near historic Miller Farmstead.
You can drive a steep, curvy 1.5 mile road to the overlook. Or, if you dare, you can park at Cates Hole pull off of route 143 and hike three miles along Forest Road and Chestnut Ridge trails to the same point.
This is among the most difficult state park hikes I have attempted, but with a considerable payoff at the turn around point.
STF516 May 16 2022
Destination: Roan Highlands
After setting up camp at Roan Mountain State Park in upper east Tennessee, I drove to Carver’s Gap then hiked a short but spectacular section of Appalachian National Scenic Trail.
This is one of countless majestic mountain scenes I witnessed this evening.
STF516a May 16 2022
View From Grassy Ridge
As sunset neared, I veered off the Appalachian Trail and climbed Grassy Ridge Trail to its summit.
At 6160 feet, Grassy Ridge is the highest bald on Roan’s ridge, making it among the highest peaks in this region of Appalachia.
STF515 May 15 2022
Another Pleasant SoKno Sunrise
After climbing Woodlawn Cemetery hill, I enjoyed this scene near my South Knoxville home.
Though within sight of retail stores and residences, Woodlawn Cemetery is large enough to offer an oasis of peace and quiet. Also, when my timing is right, it often shows me a pleasant sunrise or sunset.
STF514 May 14 2022
Tharp Trace Treat
I drove early this morning to Ijams Nature Center in Knoxville, Tennessee.
I climbed Tharp Trace to the nearer of two overlooks where a mix of clouds and sun treated me to this reflection on Mead’s Quarry Lake.
STF513 May 13 2022
Meadow Walking on Pavement
At 90-acre Beverly Park in Knox County, Tennessee, you and your dog will enjoy walking this 0.6 mile paved loop.
Today’s mid-morning sky was gorgeous, and the meadow featured summer-green hues.
STF513a May 13 2022
Meadow Walking on Natural Surface
More to my liking, when I visit Beverly Park in Knox County, Tennessee, is the 1.4 mile natural surface trail. There, the meadow is often your sole companion.
Woods and Meadow Trail takes you very near this peaceful pond.
STF512 May 12 2022
Beloved Woman of Justice
Since 2000, Audrey Flack’s Beloved Woman of Justice has graced the courtyard of Howard H. Baker Jr. U.S. Courthouse in Knoxville, Tennessee.
According to the sculptor, Justice encourages “looking into the inner self…for truth.”
STF511 May 11 2022
Pedaling in Place
This cyclist rides continually in Tyson Park beside Third Creek in Knoxville, Tennessee.
Tyson Park is just off Cumberland Avenue (“The Strip”) and about one mile by greenway from The University of Tennessee Gardens.
STF511a May 11 2022
Greenway Tunnel
This bit of Third Creek is visible from inside a tunnel on a bridge over the stream.
Third Creek Greenway is one of several paved trails in Knoxville, Tennessee that help walkers, runners, cyclists and others enjoy outdoor activities and improved health.
STF510 May 10 2022
Plant Leaves Matter
I am a sucker for colorful and intricate and otherwise-captivating flowers like these exquisite Foamflowers and Violets.
I feature this image from April 15 to remind us to notice and appreciate plant leaves. For most plants, after flowers have faded, leaves continue to absorb sunlight and carry on the all-important process of chlorophyll photosynthesis.
In the case of Foamflower and countless other plants, their leaves also happen to be intricate and beautiful.
STF509 May 9 2022
Lemons Into Lemonade
Instead of hiking in Kentucky, Tom agreed to drive to the TN/NC border where we intended to hike Big Creek Trail in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
To my dismay, Big Creek Trail is closed Monday thru Thursday. So Tom agreed to climb part of Baxter Creek Trail instead.
With directions from a GSMNP employee, we found a manway to this imposing chimney just above Baxter Creek. We learned the chimney was once attached to “The Club” when the area, called Crestmont, had a population of 2000.
STF509a May 9 2022
Painted Trillium
After climbing about 3.5 miles on Baxter Creek Trail in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tom and I snacked while resting on a fallen tree.
I noticed several Painted Trillium plants nearby. Is this wildflower glorious, or what?!
STF508 May 8 2022
Rock Bridge
Knoxville, Tennessee once was called Marble City for marble that was quarried here in the 19th century. In recent decades, former quarry sites were incorporated into a nature preserve.
A short hike from Mead’s Quarry Lake at Ijams Nature Center is Rock Bridge, photographed here from one end of the unique bridge.
STF508a May 8 2022
Rock Bridge Profile
Shown here are the “rocks” that quarry crews employed to build what we call Rock Bridge. You can faintly see wrought iron rails along the top of raw marble slabs.
The opening at bottom right in this image is The Keyhole, a popular feature within Ijams Nature Center in Knoxville, Tennessee.
STF507 May 7 2022
Tap Truck
I see more and more food trucks around Knoxville, Tennessee. Some are quite attractive, which makes me want to sample their delicious-smelling food.
This truck catered a wedding at Knoxville Botanical Gardens and Arboretum today. Talk about attractive! Knoxville Tap Truck surely made me want to quench my thirst.
STF507a May 7 2022
Invitation to Church
I resisted the urge to buy a brew from Knoxville Tap Truck and kept walking at Knoxville Botanical Gardens and Arboretum.
I saw this brilliant structure across Boyd’s Bridge Pike from KBGA. Have you ever seen a more inviting church building and lawn?! It’s called Christian Evangelistic Center. I want to meet church folks who value vibrant colors!
STF506 May 6 2022
Fallen Maple
A severe thunderstorm blew through East Tennessee this afternoon. Unfortunately, in South Knoxville’s Woodlawn Cemetery, this Maple tree did not survive 30+ mph winds.
STF506a May 6 2022
Calm After the Storm
Light rain fell as I walked in my neighborhood after today’s thunderstorm moved away from Knoxville, Tennessee.
For me, this image exemplified a welcome calm after the storm.
STF505 May 5 2022
Mr. Madden’s Neighborhood
I remained today in my South Woodlawn neighborhood of Knoxville, Tennessee.
This morning was ideal for walking outdoors. However, I was occupied with work at home. So, after the temperature cooled this evening, I walked to a shopping center for a few groceries. I passed this welcoming sign along the way.
STF505a May 5 2022
Crest of the Hill
I invested two hours midday hiking at nearby Baker Creek Preserve, which is part of Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness and a mecca for mountain bikers. Hikers also take advantage of trails built by Appalachian Mountain Bike Association volunteers.
At the high point of my hike, I crossed this pedestrian bridge on Redbud Crest Trail.
SSTF504 May 4 2022
Whatever It Is, I Like It
Sadly, most local wildflower blooms have faded. So, I have begun to notice colorful plants in cultivated gardens and landscaped areas around East Tennessee residences.
I noticed this emerging flower at the Ijams Family homestead area at Ijams Nature Center in Knoxville. Whatever it is, I like it!
STF503 May 3 2022
Green Betel?
I noticed these glossy leaves along Tower Trail at Ijams Nature Center in Knoxville, Tennessee.
My research indicates these are Green Betel specimens, and they are not native to East Tennessee. Not even close! Green Betel is native to Asia.
Did H.P. or Alice Ijams import this plant to Knoxville from an exotic land like Indochina?
STF503a May 3 2022
He Lived and Died 152 Years Ago
Dempsy Pedigo was born in February 1870 and, three days later, the infant boy died.
I expect to see such headstones in Great Smoky Mountains National Park cemeteries. I was surprised when I read this inscription along Tharp Trace in Ijams Nature Center in Knoxville, Tennessee.
STF502 May 2 2022
Spring in Red River Gorge
I was about fifteen minutes too late to the top of Natural Bridge to see the sun rise today.
Nevertheless, I appreciated how today’s new sun enhanced Spring colors near Natural Bridge State Park in Kentucky’s Red River Gorge area.
STF502a May 2 2022
Henson’s Arch
Henson’s Arch Trail, only 3/10 mile long, departed from Whittleton Campground in Natural Bridge State Park.
I captured this image, from inside a 15-foot hole beneath Henson’s Arch, by climbing down a metal ladder.
STF501 May 1 2022
Natural Bridge Construction
According to a display at Natural Bridge State Park, “Contrary to popular belief, there is no evidence that a stream ever ran through the arch. Freezing, thawing, wind, rain and earthquakes will continue to shape and erode the arch until it is gone…”
STF501a May 2 2022
Columbine
Rock Garden was one of several short trails I hiked in Natural Bridge State Park near Slade, Kentucky.
I stood precariously on a steep section of trail when I photographed this Eastern Red Columbine specimen. Without a tripod, my focus was imperfect. The flower is still grand, don’t you agree?
STF430 April 30 2022
View From Natural Bridge
Jonathan and I hiked the Original Trail in Kentucky’s Natural Bridge State Park to the namesake sandstone arch.
This was our view from atop Natural Bridge, near Slade, Kentucky.
STF430a April 30 2022
Shoe Tree
This evening we enjoyed pizza at a popular hangout called Miguel’s, near Natural Bridge State Park.
Eccentrics who visit Red River Gorge carry on a tradition of discarding worn out hiking and climbing shoes by tossing them over a limb of a shoe tree at Miguel’s.
STF429 April 29 2022
Arbor Without Cover
In all the years I have walked at Ijams Nature Center in Knoxville, Tennessee, I have never seen plants climbing, much less covering, this crude arbor.
Look closely and you will see a second arbor behind this one that climbing vines partially cover.
STF428 April 28 2022
Where Do You Guess This Is?
If you browse Today’s Feature often, you might guess this trail is at Ijams Nature Center in Knoxville, Tennessee.
It is called River Trail. It was early morning and I was walking away from the River Boardwalk, with the Tennessee River on my left. A great start to my day.
STF427 April 27 2022
An Idyllic Scene?
An idyllic scene, don’t you agree?
I often see cattle grazing on this hill across Tennessee River from Ijams Nature Center in Knoxville, Tennessee.
Several months ago I noticed a gaping hole in the roof of the brick house. Apparently, landowners are allowing the brick structure to fall into disrepair. This scene may not appear idyllic much longer.
STF426 April 26 2022
Tree With Three Trunks
I noticed this tree with three trunks while walking a recently-reopened section of River Trail at Ijams Nature Center in Knoxville, Tennessee.
STF426a April 26 2022
Tree With Three Trunks, Take Two
Here is the same three-trunked tree, a moment later, after I took artistic license with the image.
Which version of Today’s Feature do you like better?
STF425 April 25 2022
Sharp’s Ridge Tower
Several TV station, radio station and cell phone towers stand atop Sharp’s Ridge in Knoxville, Tennessee.
A platform beneath this tower provides a view southward from Sharp’s Ridge toward downtown Knoxville.
STF424 April 24 2022
Cabin Lights One Winter Night
These lights are inside cabin #8 at Standing Stone State Park near Hilham, Tennessee.
I overnighted in the rustic cabin one winter night, and awoke to find a dusting of snow outdoors.
STF423 April 23 2022
Rain Barrel Art
Several painted rain barrels were displayed at Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden when I visited on Palm Sunday. This was my favorite.
A rain barrel captures water from a roof and holds it for later use such as on lawns, gardens or indoor plants.
STF422 April 22 2022
Earth Day Reminder
More than anything we know, the earth is sustainable. It is unlikely humans can overpower nature, although as a species we seem hell bent to do so.
When humans respectfully work with the earth, instead of shaping it to suit our self-centered and short-sighted objectives, we enjoy earth’s bounty and beauty.
STF422a April 22 2022
Earth Day Caution
It seemed harmless, I suppose, to import English Ivy to America. Unfortunately, in my neighborhood, there is evidence of the short-sightedness of that decision. This is one among countless human errors, the consequences of which we suffer every day.
STF421 April 21 2022
Fort Dickerson Park
This ideal picnic spot is a few feet from Augusta Quarry Overlook, at the entrance to Fort Dickerson Park in Knoxville, Tennessee.
Trails lead from this spot downhill to Augusta Quarry Lake and uphill to Fort Dickerson, a Civil War earthen fort.
STF420 April 20 2022
Pete’s Branch Falls
A friend and I returned to Cherokee National Forest today to visit two waterfalls and search for Spring wildflowers.
This is Pete’s Branch Falls, which is less than two hiking miles from Horse Creek Picnic Area near Chuckey, Tennessee.
STF420a April 20 2022
Squibb Creek Falls
This is Squibb Creek Falls, which is just over two hiking miles, but in a different direction, from Horse Creek Picnic Area.
After an inch of rainfall in the prior three days, the two waterfalls we visited today were flowing well. So were the streams we crossed more than two dozen times. Brrrrrrrr!
STF419 April 19 2022
Golden Goose
A rock wall reflection on the lake’s surface colors a solitary goose.
Mead’s Quarry Lake is at Ijams Nature Center in Knoxville, Tennessee, where I often walk to begin my day.
STF418 April 18 2022
Shelf Fungi?
Are these called Shelf Fungi when they are attached to a fallen tree?
Photographed near the Keyhole at Ijams Nature Center in Knoxville, Tennessee.
STF417 April 17 2022
Easter Sunrise
Early on the first day of the week, I witnessed a dramatic sun rise. I was surprised and grateful for this special start to Easter Sunday.
STF416 April 16 2022
Litton Family Farm
Russ and I met near Bandy Creek Visitor Center and hiked a seven mile loop in Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area near Oneida, Tennessee.
It was our first visit to John Litton Farm, a picturesque property preserved within the national park near Scott State Forest.
STF416a April 16 2022
Big South Fork
After passing Bandy Creek Campground, we drove a few miles to Leatherwood Ford. There, we hiked out and back beside Big South Fork on O&W Trail.
I captured this view of Big South Fork of The Cumberland from O&W Bridge.
STF415 April 15 2022
Debord Falls
Three friends and I visited Frozen Head State Park near Wartburg, Tennessee during Wildflower Pilgrimage Week. We saw an abundance of wildflowers in bloom along Panther Branch and Judge Branch trails.
Panther Branch Trail passes Debord Falls and leads to Emory Gap Trail which terminates at Emory Gap Falls. Both exhibited a better-than-usual water flow today.
STF415a April 15 2022
Jacks In The Pulpit
I discovered two Jack In The Pulpit plants (my first of the season) along Emory Gap Trail at Frozen Head State Park.
Considering the variety of flowers I enjoyed, and friends who pursued them with me, Spring 2022 has been one of my best wildflower hiking seasons ever.
STF414 April 14 2022
Majestic Maple
A few days ago this majestic Silver Maple was completely barren of leaves. Now, it is green with new growth.
STF414a April 14 2022
Under the Maple
Because the Silver Maple stands a few feet from my house and its branches overhang the roof, I named my home “Little House Under the Maple.”
STF413 April 13 2022
Redbud Redux
Redbud trees were quite showy today at Panther Creek State Park near Talbott, Tennessee.
I hiked Deer Run Trail when I captured this close up of a budding Redbud.
STF413a April 13 2022
Trout Lily Trail
I also hiked Trout Lily Trail today at Panther Creek State Park.
Though the namesake plants were past their prime, several Trout Lilies, like this terrific specimen, were at peak.
STF412 April 12 2022
Fresh Redbud Buds
Redbud trees display brilliant flowers in Spring. The fresh buds on this Redbud tree grew directly from the tree trunk.
Photographed from ground level while walking along a greenway near Ned McWhorter Park in Knoxville, Tennessee.
STF411 April 11 2022
Blue-Eyed Mary
I visited Raven Run Nature Preserve, just south of Lexington, Kentucky, and hiked the Flower Bowl loop in light rainfall. I was rewarded by a variety of flowers in bloom, including this plant I haven’t seen elsewhere. It’s called Blue-Eyed Mary.
STF410 April 10 2022
Emperor’s Crown
I was fortunate to accompany Jonathan, Rachael and Zoe to Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden. Today’s weather was splendid, many animals were visible, and thousands of Tulips were in bloom.
This was my best flower photo today. I believe it is Emperor’s Crown Tulip.
STF409 April 9 2022
Orienteering Hoosier National Forest
Jonathan and I teamed up to compete in a six-hour ROGAINE orienteering event, held this year in Hoosier National Forest.
This was our view from 110 foot Hickory Ridge Fire Tower on a blustery, wintry day.
STF409a April 9 2022
At The Finish Line
Today’s ROGAINE orienteering competition began and ended at Maumee Scout Reservation, located within Hoosier National Forest near Bedford, Indiana.
My son, Jonathan, is an expert orienteer, and at times I am privileged to accompany him. We earned 590 points today, the best result of our five ROGAINE competitions.
STF408 April 8 2022
Geese Trio Honking In The Rain
I pulled off Interstate 75 and walked at Cove Lake State Park while attending two phone meetings.
Although the geese clearly disliked my intrusion into their domain, they seemed to enjoy light rain that fell as I walked a nature trail near the park’s campground.
STF408a April 8 2022
Another Up Close Trillium
This is my best flower photo from today. I saw it and many more flowering plants along Wood Loop Trail at Cove Lake State Park near Caryville, Tennessee.
STF407 April 7 2022
Eager Beaver
Soon after I arrived at Ijams Nature Center in Knoxville this morning, I beheld a Beaver swimming in Tennessee River below the River Boardwalk.
STF407a April 7 2022
Trillium Up Close
To cap my morning walk at Ijams Nature Center, I enjoyed several red Trillium plants in various stages of flowering. This was my best flower photo today.
As you can see, we received much-needed rain last night in Knoxville, Tennessee.
STF406 April 6 2022
Tennessee River Sunrise Reprise
For the second consecutive morning, I walked at Ijams Nature Center and saw the sunrise above the Tennessee River. This time, I was further along River Trail, on the River Boardwalk.
STF406a April 6 2022
Tennessee River Sunrise Reprise II
For the second consecutive morning, a bass boat driver was on the Tennessee River, and his wake enhanced my sunrise view.
STF405 April 5 2022
Tennessee River Sunrise
I walked early this morning at Ijams Nature Center in Knoxville, Tennessee.
A bass boat driver was on the Tennessee River early today also. His wake enhanced my sunrise view.
STF404 April 4 2022
Little Greenbrier School
Russ and I hiked Metcalf Bottoms Trail and looked inside this historic structure, one of two schools still standing in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Built in 1881 or 1882, the sturdy structure served children who walked up to four miles to school, but only for a few weeks each year. It served year round as meeting house for a Primitive Baptist church, until 1936.
STF403 April 3 2022
Virginia Bluebells in East Tennessee
This emerging Virginia Bluebell was on display at Frozen Head State Park near Wartburg, Tennessee. Volunteers planted several sample plants and displayed name tags for each at Panther Branch Trailhead.
Carla and I spotted more than a dozen wildflower varieties in bloom today along the trail that parallels Panther Branch and passes Debord Falls.
STF403a April 3 2022
Toadshade Trillium
Here is one wildflower variety Carla and I discovered along Panther Branch Trail today. By visiting Frozen Head State Park visitor center, we learned its name is Toadshade Trillium.
STF402 April 2 2022
Spring Beauty
During my fourth visit to Norris Dam State Park this Spring, Hepatica, Trout Lily and Bloodroot had passed their prime blooming period. Instead, Red Trillium, Wild Blue Phlox and other ephemerals took their turn in the spotlight.
These and many other Spring Beauty plants bloomed along Clear Creek Trail. Though their stems and leaves were easy to overlook, Spring Beauty’s showy flowers grabbed my attention.
STF402a April 2 2022
Wildflowers At Play
After a morning hike at Norris Dam, I drove to Morningside Park near downtown Knoxville, Tennessee where I played disc golf. In the fairway for hole #11, I saw this vivid flower.
My research has not revealed the plant’s name. Do you know?
STF401 April 1 2022
Wildflowers Close to Home
Wild Phlox were among a variety of blooming wildflowers along Hickory Trail at Ijams Nature Center in Knoxville, Tennessee.
The nature center is about a seven minute drive from my home. When I prefer, it takes me less than an hour to walk natural surface trails from home to Ijams’ parking area at Mead’s Quarry Lake. Today, I drove the Explorer.
STF331 March 31 2022
White Fringed Phacelia
A green “carpet” covered several acres, comprised mostly of White Fringed Phacelia plants. This scene was about 1.5 miles along Porter’s Creek Trail in Great Smoky Mountains National Park near Gatlinburg, Tennessee.
Scroll down for a look at some other wildflowers that bloomed amid the Phacelia plants.
Great White Trillium amid White Fringed Phacelia STF331a
Wild Geranium amid White Fringed Phacelia STF331b
Trout Lily amid White Fringed Phacelia STF331c
Mayapple amid White Fringed Phacelia STF331d
STF330 March 30 2022
Tree Transformation
Trees transform themselves in spring. They produce buds that open as either flowers or leaves.
Two things to note about this image of a stately tree with its opening buds.
The stone sculpture in the foreground is a Woodmen of the World Memorial.
A red X on the trunk indicates the tree is to be removed from Woodlawn Cemetery in Knoxville, Tennessee. I am glad it survived one more Spring.
STF329 March 29 2022
Joyful Reunion
Trout Lily is one of my favorite wildflowers. Sadly, the plants disappear, leaves and all, by summer. Gladly, they reemerge each Spring.
Every year in March, I hike certain trails anticipating the return of Trout Lily blooms. Today, at long last, along Cucumber Gap Trail in the Smoky Mountains near Gatlinburg, Tennessee, I discovered a profusion of the exquisite plants.
STF329a March 29 2022
Happy Hepatica
Here is a bonus photo from today’s wildflower hike.
This was the most brilliant color among the myriad white, pink and purple Hepatica flowers that I saw along Cucumber Gap Trail in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
STF328 March 28 2022
Better Late Than Never
Today’s fixer upper project lasted until sunset, then I drove to a store to buy supplies I need to finish the job. On my way home, around 8:30pm, I saw lights reflected in a pond in the Colonial Village neighborhood of Knoxville, Tennessee.
Though not my best effort, I deserve some credit for adding a late night image to Today’s Feature.
STF327 March 27 2022
Spring In East Tennessee
I returned to Norris Dam a second consecutive day to view and photograph early but brief blooming wildflowers (ephemerals).
This Hepatica flower nestled among a rocky outcropping close to Clinch River along TVA’s River Bluff Trail near Rocky Top, Tennessee.