I was driving home to South Carolina, from Williamsburg, one day and I distinctly remember the feeling that overcame me when I saw the mountains appear in the distance on 85. Since it had been so long from the last time I had gotten to experience their magnificent beauty, I felt tears of joy come into my eyes. I finally felt at home. For me, my adolescence was measured by hiking trips and various mountain adventures. I feel so fortunate to have grown up in an area of the country where I could constantly explore and enjoy nature's rich beauty. The Blueridge Mountains were the backdrop of some of my most favorite memories growing up. Here are some of my favorite hikes where those memories were made.

1. Table Rock. Pickens, SC

This 6.5 mile out-and-back hike is located in Table Rock State Park near Pickens, South Carolina. Though the climb up is difficult, gaining about 2,000 feet in elevation over 3.5 miles, the view from the summit is well worth it. Once you reach the peak, you have an amazing view looking down on the rest of the Blue Ridge Mountains. There are also a few large streams at the bottom of the trail for you to cool off in when you finish the hike. Park fees are 3$/person.

2. Rainbow Falls. Cleveland, SC

This moderate 2.5 mile out-and-back hike is perfect for the whole family! Located in the popular Jones Gap State Park, this steady climb only gains about 1,200 feet in elevation. The falls are breathtakingly beautiful and you can even climb to the upper falls. Be prepared, though, because the falls can get pretty chilly if you get close so pack an extra jacket! Park fees are 3$/person.

3. Shining Rock. Pisgah, NC

Located just off of milepost 420 on the Blueridge Parkway, the Art Loeb Trail is an 8.6 mile out-and-back hike to Shining Rock. This trail is truly magnificent because you hike along the ridge-top that is devoid of trees giving you constant 360 degree views. For most, the trek to Shining Rock and back is best done over a two day span, so be prepared for a beautiful backpacking trip!

4. McAfee Knob. Salem, VA

McAfee Knob is an 8.8 mile out-and-back hike on the Appalachian Trail starting from the VA311 parking lot. Once you are parked, cross the street and enter the trail at the white blaze. Though it is 4.4 miles to the knob, only about 1,700 feet of elevation is gained making it a moderate climb. The view from the main outlook gives you an incredible panorama of the Catawba Valley. Also, don't forget to get a picture sitting on the knob!

5. Old Rag. Madison, VA

This 7.0 mile loop hike, located in the beautiful Shenandoah National Forest, is one of the most popular hikes in Virginia. However, this strenuous hike is not for the faint of heart because it gains an elevation of about 3,000 feet to the summit. It is well worth the difficult climb though, because the view from the summit gives you an amazing panorama view of the Shenandoah National Forest. It is recommended that you take on the trail counter-clockwise so that you are going downhill during the difficult rock scrambles.