On The Way To Fort Bragg – A Road Less Traveled

A few weeks ago I was driving down to Fort Bragg to perform at their Oktoberfest for wounded soldiers when I noticed a sign on the freeway, “Scenic Overlook Open”. A true Road Less Traveled, it was through a gate at the back of a rest stop. Ordinarily, I would have just driven by, but I had been traveling all day and although I had driven through West Virginia many times, I had never stopped to take in scenery. So I turned.

The road through the gate wound into the woods much further than I anticipated. I parked in a cul-de-sac and through some trees saw a railing. Grabbing my camera I headed for the outlook with no idea what lay ahead, the trees obscuring any further view. It felt like I was on the road less traveled. Walking through the trees I approached the wooden security rail and this is what unfolded in front of me. I was alone with nature’s perfection, and a huge smile spread across my face.

It was a stunning reminder that it is all too easy to let the freeways of life speed us past some truly magical moments. Consumed by the internet, cell phones, work, and the blinding pace of life in the America today – why don’t you slow down and take that next exit to a road less traveled.

West Virginia is such a beautiful, wild place. Take a journey and find your own Road Less Traveled. Here is a good place to start: West Virginia Traveling – The Wilderness Awaits!