Bottom Creek Gorge

     Last weekend I was looking for an easier hike, but still one that would provide a fun experience with some views.  Bottom Creek Gorge seemed to fit the bill.  It was a bit of a drive from Tech, but after about an hour, we pulled into a little lot and started our hike.  It didn't disappoint.  Although there was no particular "climb to a peak", there was a variety of scenery, a nice overlook with a view of the second highest waterfall in Virginia, and an area to access the creek (or was it a river?) that flowed alongside part of the path. 
     The weather was perfect, the flowers were starting to bloom, and we saw a deer as we walked.  It was pretty incredible too.  When we spotted the doe in the shrubbery off the trail, we stopped to watch her.  I was lucky to happen to have my telephoto lens on my camera so I carefully pulled it out and started
shooting.  She saw us, but instead of bolting or even turning away, she watched us for a bit, seemingly nervous, but curious, about the sound that the camera shutter was making every time it clicked.  She actually started to approach us.  It didn't appear to be in an aggressive manner, but it was clear that she wasn't entirely habituated to humans and looking for food.  Rather, she cautiously approached, stopping about 15 or 20 feet away to watch us some more, before she turned and wandered away.  It was definitely a one-of-a-kind kind of experience!