Julia & Joshua

May 10, 2025 • Somerset, VA

Julia & Joshua

May 10, 2025 • Somerset, VA

Carter Mountain Orchard and Country Store

1435 Carters Mountain Trail Charlottesville, VA 22902

Just minutes from downtown Charlottesville and Monticello, visitors overlook lush groves and breathtaking views of the valley below. Against this stunning backdrop, enjoy apple cider donuts, Bold Rock Ciders, and various bakery items in the fresh mountain air.


We especially enjoy the Thursday Evening Sunset Series with live music, food trucks, Carter Mountain Wine, Bold Rock Hard Cider, and the best view of a sunset! Bring lawn chairs and blankets, or come early for a picnic table on the terrace & decks. See the website to purchase tickets ahead of time!

Website

Humpback Rocks Hiking

Afton, VA 22920, USA

Please check for closures due to Hurricane Helene on the website!


Begins at the south end of the Humpback Gap parking area, provides access to Humpback Rocks (1 mile), Humpback Mountain (2 miles), and the Humpback Rocks picnic area (3.9 miles). About a half-mile up the blue-blazed trail, hikers can reach Humpback Rocks from a spur trail on the left. The strenuous 700-foot climb rewards hikers with spectacular views of the Rockfish and Shenandoah Valleys. Hikers continuing straight at the fork for one mile can reach the summit of Humpback Mountain to view ridges to the north. Beyond the summit, the trail winds a half-mile along the top of a cliff to a trail leading to the Humpback Rocks picnic area. Generally, the Humpback Rocks trail is marked with blue blazes on trees, rocks, and other natural features. At times, however, the trail is also part of the Appalachian Trail and may be marked in white. A single blaze indicates the trail continues straight while a double blaze indicates an upcoming turn. Allow one hour to Humpback Rocks, two hours to Humpback Mountain, and four hours to hike to the picnic area.

Crabtree Falls

Check the website for closures due to Hurricane Helene!

We love the view from Crabtree Falls. The scenic 3-mile loop trail to Crabtree Falls is moderately strenuous hike with a many stairs, steep inclines, and rocky terrain. Hikers should allow 1.5 to 2.5 hours for the entire hike. Small ($3?) parking lot fee.

Monticello

1050 Monticello Loop, Charlottesville, VA 22902, USA
(434) 984-9800

Visit the website to purchase tickets!


Discover the unforgettable experience of fall at Monticello. From a tour of Thomas Jefferson's history home to award-winning wine at Jefferson Vineyards, all with the stunning backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains, it's the perfect day trip!

Our Favorite Eateries

Bodo's Bagels!

The best bagels we've ever had. Seriously. Especially good when fresh in the AM, but fantastic sandwiches for lunch as well. 3 locations throughout Charlottesville.

https://www.bodosbagels.com/


Asado Wings & Tacos

Julia loves tacos, Josh loves wings (and tacos).

https://asadocville.com/


Brazos Tacos

Our first date was at Brazos! Enjoy your tacos (they make great breakfast burritos as well) and stroll around IX art park.

https://store.brazostacos.com/


Maru on the Downtown Mall

Julia loves the Udon, Josh loves the dolsat bibimbap served in a hot stone bowl. Their sweet Yuza tea and Gang Jeong appetizer are also our go-to's!

https://www.marudowntown.com/


The Local

Emphasis on local! Locally owned and locally sourced ingredients, with

https://thelocal-cville.com/