The Rough Ridge trail--actually a section of the Tanawha Trail that closely parallels the Blue Ridge Parkway for several miles--is easily accessed from a convenient Parkway overlook. The trail ascends a shoulder of Grandfather Mountain and, on a clear day, provides something of an "above it all" view of the surrounding peaks, as well as a unique perspective on the iconic Linn Cove Viaduct farther south on the Parkway. This autumn morning was anything but clear, however! I made the short hike to the boardwalk section of the trail--installed to protect the fragile, alpine-like vegetation of the slopes--hoping to find bright autumn color contrasting against soft gray fog. I found all that and more. Shortly after I set up camera and tripod, the heavens opened and I was caught in a steady downpour. The fog I'd anticipated became a rolling cloud--soft, quiet, very wet, and accompanied by a stiff breeze. This is one of several exposures I made before nearby rumbles of thunder convinced me the wiser location was back down the trail in my car.