Nature Archives - rockriverexperiences.com

09 May

Blog, Experiences, Family Activities, Nature

May’s Flower Moon: A Celestial Celebration of Spring’s Peak

The next full moon, known as the Flower Moon, will reach its peak illumination on Monday, May 12, 2025, at 12:56 p.m. Eastern Time. This full moon marks the height of spring, named for the abundance of blooming flowers that signal the season’s vibrant growth across much of North America. About the May 2025 Flower MoonName & Meaning: The May full moon is traditionally called the...

30 Apr

Blog, Experiences, Nature

The Violet: A Flower of History, Myth, and Beauty

The violet, with its delicate petals and vibrant hues, has enchanted admirers for centuries. More than just a fleeting bloom, this remarkable flower—thriving across woodlands, meadows, and gardens of the Northern Hemisphere—carries a rich legacy steeped in mythology, folklore, and quiet resilience. In the Southern Shenandoah Valley, where spring arrives early and violets linger well beyond Summer, their enduring presence sets them apart from other...

19 Apr

Blog, Experiences, Family Activities, Nature

Easter Week’s Sky Lights Up with Shooting Stars, Plus Two Meteor Showers Coming in May

As Earth journeys along its path, it sweeps up trails of comet debris that ignite our skies with meteor showers, also known as shooting stars. This year, the Lyrid meteor shower is poised to deliver a spectacular celestial show, peaking on the night of April 21 into the early hours of April 22. As the first major meteor shower since the Quadrantids, it’s a highly...

12 Apr

Blog, Experiences, Nature

The Pink Full Moon Rises Tonight – And It’s Showing Up With A Few Surprises…

Tonight, Saturday, April 12, step outside a little before 8 PM to witness the fourth full moon of 2025 rising above the horizon. Known as the Pink Moon, it’s the first full moon of spring — and this year, it’s showing up with a few surprises.Called the Pink Moon, it marks the first full moon of spring. Its name comes from Phlox subulata, or moss...

24 Jul

Blog, Experiences, Family Activities, Food and Beverages, Hikes, Nature

Wild Berry Bonanza: A Guide to Berry Seasons from May to August in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley

This guide is based on foraging southern Shenandoah Valley, around Lexington and Natural Bridge, Virginia down through Roanoke, VA. Berry enthusiasts can enjoy a diverse array of wild and cultivated berries throughout the late spring and summer months in Shenandoah Valley. Here's a guide to the berry seasons in this region:Spring BerriesMulberries: These are typically the earliest berries to ripen, usually available from late May...

01 Jul

Blog, Experiences, Family Activities, History and Museums, Nature

Rockbridge Rocks: Spreading Love with Painted Rocks

“Rockbridge Rocks” is a Facebook page with over six thousand followers, many who paint rocks and combine that with easter bunny mojo to spread positive vibes and connect with others. We interviewed Joanna Higginbotham on how she got started with the group and her experience in the pro-bono rock painting and giving away business. Spoiler alert…. having a hobby that brings joy to others is...

22 Jun

Blog, Experiences, Hikes, History and Museums, Nature

Who Knew? Bigfoot Lives in Rockbridge County – You Learn a New ‘Legend’ Every Day!

The legend of Sasquatch or Bigfoot has captivated imaginations for centuries, with reports of large, ape-like creatures roaming remote forests and wilderness areas around the world. In Rockbridge County, Virginia, nestled amid the picturesque landscapes of towns like Glasgow, Buena Vista, Natural Bridge, and Lexington, tales of encounters with this elusive creature have long been a part of local folklore. The rugged terrain of Rockbridge County,...

22 May

Blog, Experiences, Nature

Blue Ridge Serenity: A Tapestry of Colors and Memories

As I sit in my chair drifting in and out of memories, there’s something to point out about the Blue Ridge Mountains. The experience will give you solace, like treasures you can always visit. Your memory will connect with those vivid hues of color inspiring you to revisit just to see it once again. But even if you witness the majesty of these mountains just once,...

05 May

Blog, Experiences, Family Activities, Hikes, Nature

Buffalo Creek Escapade: Family Fun with Horseback Rides, Mountain Views and Starlit Evenings

Embarking on a family adventure one hopes it leads to unexpected joys and cherished memories. Our vacation on Buffalo Creek did not disappoint and was an amazing combination of tranquility and relaxation while effortlessly creating fun-filled memories. Upon stepping into our cozy three-bedroom vacation rental, we were immediately struck by the breathtaking water views and the soothing sounds of the creek meandering around a grand rock...

30 Mar

Blog, Experiences, Family Activities, Live Music, Nature

——- Listen to the Music… Live! And at Sea! ——-Cruisin’ to the Bahamas with Bruce Allen

Set sail on a musical adventure like no other! 🚢 Don't miss the boat, join Bruce Allen's Keeping Music Live at Sea Cruise on the Carnival Sunshine! 🌞 Get ready to groove to your favorite tunes under the sun and stars, surrounded by the beautiful blue sea. 🌊 Sept 28-Oct 3, for around $900 for single cruisers or $1600 per couple, you can cruise the seas while listening...