Tues 19 April Day 40
We had the fastest cruise down the 10 miles to Damascus (2hr 50min). But what a frustrating day to end up with. On arriving in town we couldn't get accommodation as there were lots of hikers taking zeros.
We spent hours just hanging around the outfitter store and pretty much wasted the day away. Most of my jobs didn't get done.
But we ended up bunking in with other hikers in the hostel so was able to shower and clean up for dinner.
Now for those of you that know me well you will be aware that I don't really do skirts that much, so sit down - I bought a hiking skirt (it is technically a mens hiking kilt)!! It is awesome and I cant wait 'til I can try it out. It has replaced my shorts which had gotten so big I was rolling the waist band 3 times to prevent them falling off.
A bunch if us (the usuals at the moment) went to Quincy's for pizza and a beer or two. Another night of laughs (thanks Kearvy for the email - you had a whole table of hikers cracking up)!
Late night out - in bed by 11.30pm :)
Wed 20 Apr Day 41
A day to get more things done - but lots got forgotten (I need to make better lists). I also bought a new jacket - an ultra-lite Mont-bell. It weighs hardly anything and is the size of a pencil case when in it's stuff sack! As a bonus I have bounce-boxed my merino tops and long johns onto Harpers Ferry where I can keep sending it ahead until the end of the trail. It has lightened my pack and created more space - always important :)
We ate more food, did washing and got groceries. It is always hard to get more food coz it weighs so much. My food and water contribute to half my pack weight!!
Trivial pursuits was on the agenda after calzone and beer dinner. Just the questions not the game. Another late night - not really good as we have to hike tomorrow.
Thur 21 Apr Day 42
From Damascus to Lost Mountain Shelter. 15.5mi eta 7hrs.
High five, Cascades, Book Smarts and I had second breakfast at Dairy King (egg, bacon and cheese biscuits and coffee). I didn't leave town 'til 9.30am but it was a gradual climb up, the AT paralleled some sections of the Virginia Creeper Trail and some lovely sections of ridge running and I got in in 6 1/2hrs.
The weather is still holding but we are expecting rain for the rest of the week.
My mens kilt was really good today. I am actually surprised it went so well.
The Lost Mountain Shelter was busy and we met up with new hikers - Professor, Sky, Rumplestrip, Hawk and we're still behind Spaceman & Rocket, Tiger-lily
Realized again today that the only constant thing on the AT is pain. I wonder if it ever goes away?
Fri 22 Apr Day 43
The alarm went off at 6.25am. Out of bed at 6.35am to start bfast (the usual single serve oatmeal in the bag). The weather had cooled overnight and the clouds were heading over Mt Rogers already. There was some incentive to get going quickly to make the most of the remaining sunshine. I left camp at 7.30am.
Within the first 2 miles the sun was gone and I was walking in the clouds. By 10am it was raining and by the top of Buzzard Knob there were blustery gales, rain and temps of 2-3deg (without windchill)!! Luckily it didn't last long and I was under tree cover which reduced the wind dramatically.
13miles done since bfast and it was time for lunch (1.10pm) - delicious tortillas with peanut butter and jam (it comes mixed in the same jar and I have put it into a ziplock bag).
Just another 5mi to Wise Shelter. I walked through the beautiful Grayson Highlands State Park today. A total shame there was absolutely no view! But I did get to see the famous ponies - they were also hiding in the clouds and were easy to miss (ay Lego?).
This shelter is busy too. It's a Friday and there are families and college groups - I was lucky to get the 2nd to last spot in the shelter.
Its 7.17pm and dinner is long done (although the family that is with us gave us their leftover pork tenderloin that they had cooked on the fire - it was like feeding a pack of starving dogs)!
Time to wrap up in my sleeping bag. Big 20 miles to do tomorrow.
Sat 23 Apr Day 44
From the crazy weather of yesterday to glorious blue sky and warm temps. The family that gave us pork last night gave us tortillas with egg and sausage mix - delicious.
Walking over pastures and rolling land was a great start. Just as I was leaving a car park a truck pulls in and the driver gets out and says "are you going to maine? (yes, I am), are you hungry? (always), are you thirsty? (absolutely, its hot today) then come on over". His name was John and he provided as much food as you could imagine - burgers, hotdogs, sodas, bagels & cream cheese, chips, oranges, cookies, oatmeal cream pies. It was amazing. We hung around for a good 30-40mins enjoying the spoils.
About half way up I met a group of people by a waterfall - I took their photo for them and they gave me iced tea.
The rest of the day flew by - 20 miles done in 8hrs (including all the stops). The bonus of today was "that I have walked 500 miles...". The days end total is 517.5mi.
Tomorrow we are heading towards Atkins which is a few days out of Perisberg, VA.
Sun 24 Apr Day 45
The "easy" 10 miles that felt like the "worst" but was actually really quick! We made it into the Partnership Shelter for pizza lunch by 11.15am. Cascades had put in the order and it arrived around midday - 4 large pizzas and 2x2L soda for 8 people. It disappeared in no time!
The rest of the day was a hot haul up some big hills and a nice downhill to Chatfield Shelter (5miles out of Atkins). It was set by a stream and a few if us had a lovely foot soak at the end of the day.
The shelter was full and it was a cozy (but hot) night. Met Hansel & Gretel (brother and sister combo) and Loner Boner (old dude hiking by himself whose last name is Boner supposedly).
Mon 25 April Day 46
Today had a nice start a cruisy hour and a bit into Atkins for 2nd bfast - although we were disappointed that the ice-cream shop wasn't open!! Instead we did a minimal resupply at the service station convenience store then went to the restaurant across the road for omelet and BLT.
It was farewell day for High-five who decided to head home a few days early and her dad came to pick her up so I was able to see him again (Neels Gap was the last time I saw him). It is sad when people leave. My original trail family is no more :(
Good luck High-five. Keep in touch. On a good note - Forest is back on trail and has a new trail name. Good luck "Bolt" - good trail journey.
The remaining 14 odd miles was a long haul - particularly the last hill. It was a bitch! The end of a 18.4mi day did not need a hill. Plus it was really hot, muggy and wet (we eventually had a thunder storm and it actually rained a bit).
We are at Knot Maul Shelter and we have met a couple of new hikers - Not Far (section hiking) and Tigger (NOBO). Cookers are out, gear is hanging and foot doctoring has been done. Time for blogging, spinning yarns and heading to bed. It's getting later though due to the longer walking days.
I must be getting used to this hiking thing!
Oh and I only have 3/4s of the trail to go!!
- posted by enzed :)
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Into Damascus, VA
Sat 16 April Day 36
You should have seen the roof on last nights shelter - I am glad it withstood the 65mph winds and rain we had during the night!!
This morning wasn't so bad and the rain subsided, plus we only had 6.1 miles to do to get to the Kincora Hostel. We all cruised in within 2 hrs and were greatly appreciative of the shower, laundry and food. Bob Peoples is a wonderful man who has provided a great facility on the trail.
Our group of 5 hung out, ate food, caught up with other hikers who were leaving, and played the AT Hiker game before our shuttle to Elizabethton for dinner and groceries. A day to totally chill out.
Dinner was was the first AYCE (all you can eat) place I have been to so far. It was delicious Chinese and cost only $7.92. Awesome.
More hikers had turned up at Kincora by the time we got back and it was a laughter-filled night spent chatting (hanging out on the sofas and lazy-boy chairs). Note to potential hikers though - be considerate when taking off your boots. You may think your feet don't smell but that might not be the case- (one terrible pair of hiker shoes experienced by everyone tonight)!
Sun 17 Apr Day 37
Great nights sleep at the hostel. Up early to get a good start on the 17.4mi day. The laurel falls were really nice and the trail threw me a curve ball - the blaze was right on the rivers edge and the path went around the rocks. It was awesome.
Then came the hill (the first of many) that went up then back down - it took me an hour and a half to complete it over to Watauga Lake. Then we crossed the dam to the lake and up more hills - yippee (sarcastic tone). But we got to the Vandeventer Shelter which has amazing views and settled into the normal "shelter" routine. Snack comes first, then water (which was miles away downhill), setting up beds, cooking dinner, privy run then into bed. It is so early the sun is setting and it's getting in our eyes. Oh the things to complain about :)
Dinner was mashed potatoes with stuffing and gravy mix - yum! Tasty. Heading into a 22+ mile day tomorrow. Let's hope it's a good one.
- posted by enzed :)
You should have seen the roof on last nights shelter - I am glad it withstood the 65mph winds and rain we had during the night!!
This morning wasn't so bad and the rain subsided, plus we only had 6.1 miles to do to get to the Kincora Hostel. We all cruised in within 2 hrs and were greatly appreciative of the shower, laundry and food. Bob Peoples is a wonderful man who has provided a great facility on the trail.
Our group of 5 hung out, ate food, caught up with other hikers who were leaving, and played the AT Hiker game before our shuttle to Elizabethton for dinner and groceries. A day to totally chill out.
Dinner was was the first AYCE (all you can eat) place I have been to so far. It was delicious Chinese and cost only $7.92. Awesome.
More hikers had turned up at Kincora by the time we got back and it was a laughter-filled night spent chatting (hanging out on the sofas and lazy-boy chairs). Note to potential hikers though - be considerate when taking off your boots. You may think your feet don't smell but that might not be the case- (one terrible pair of hiker shoes experienced by everyone tonight)!
Sun 17 Apr Day 37
Great nights sleep at the hostel. Up early to get a good start on the 17.4mi day. The laurel falls were really nice and the trail threw me a curve ball - the blaze was right on the rivers edge and the path went around the rocks. It was awesome.
Then came the hill (the first of many) that went up then back down - it took me an hour and a half to complete it over to Watauga Lake. Then we crossed the dam to the lake and up more hills - yippee (sarcastic tone). But we got to the Vandeventer Shelter which has amazing views and settled into the normal "shelter" routine. Snack comes first, then water (which was miles away downhill), setting up beds, cooking dinner, privy run then into bed. It is so early the sun is setting and it's getting in our eyes. Oh the things to complain about :)
Dinner was mashed potatoes with stuffing and gravy mix - yum! Tasty. Heading into a 22+ mile day tomorrow. Let's hope it's a good one.
- posted by enzed :)
Sunday, April 17, 2011
Erwin, TN to Damascus, VA
Mon 11 Apr Day 32
6 mile day made it a nero into Erwin. It wasn't the best 6 miles as I twisted my right ankle as well (not bad but it needs strapping). I haven't fallen apart completely yet, honestly!!
We stayed at a hostel called Uncle Johnny's which was one of the nicest ones I have stayed at apart from the Hiker Hostel. We all pitched in and stayed in 'grandmas cabin' which was 5 star - full lounge, double room, bathroom with shower and a kitchen. It was awesome. We even cooked dinner - chicken strips and salad (lettuce, capsicum, feta) with tomato & basil brushetta for entree. It was delicious :). It's definitely all about food.
Resupply and laundry all done we had a great day hanging out in the 27deg heat meeting all the hikers coming in during the day. It was great catching up with people.
Tue 12 Apr Day 33
We were going to head out by 8.30am but got sucked into the hostel vortex and the incoming rain made it difficult to leave. So it was after 10 when we set out on the 16.7mi journey to Cherry Gap Shelter.
The trail was really good - we even had to jump over a train (just to make the start of the day interesting). Nice inclines and not too much downhill BUT the weather packed it in at the 12mi mark and it got really cold. I did the dumbest thing and didn't get changed soon enough and ended up getting really cold too. So cold that when I reached the shelter my hands didn't work at all and it took over 4hours for me to warm up in my sleeping bag (with totally new dry clothes on too). Lesson learnt. It wasn't a pleasant afternoon.
I did sleep well though - right through to 8.30!
Wed 13 Apr Day 34
Due to us all sleeping in and waiting for the weather to change we had a late start today too (12.30). The guys (Cascades, Redwood & Lego) set up a fire and dried clothes, packs, boots, socks, etc. There were a few casualties though - 3 pairs of socks got toasted (2 with holes) and one of my boots had the tongue singed! Bugger about that but I'm calling it a battle scar - it adds character.
The 9 miles we did today brought us to Clyde Smith Shelter (a little short of the 16 miles we were going to do). But it was too late in the day to continue and all of us were pretty much over the hiking from yesterday.
Lazing in the sun, calf massages, music, dinner and dessert. What a great way to spend the afternoon. Only 2 more nights out of Kincora Hostel near Hampton.
And the weather is back to hot and sunny! Yay.
Thur 14 Apr Day 35
So the plan today was a nice 14.3 to Overmountain Shelter. This involved a 2265' ascent of Roan Mountain (over only 4mi)!!
I had my head down bum up and completely missed the Roan Shelter (the highest on the AT) and I cruised into the shelter before Overmountain at 1.15pm. It was a gorgeous day so a decision was made to continue onto the Apple House Shelter (to make the total miles 23 for the day)!!
It was the most amazing day - I was humming along. I got into the shelter within 9.5hrs. We all made it the full way. A very tiring day though.
Fri 15 Apr Day 36
It was difficult to get up this morning but it was to be another long day - 18.9. I didn't really realize how big a week we have done. It was a struggle today especially being tired and the fact it was long. BUT we did it!
The last 2 days we have hiked 42 miles. Amazing :)
Tomorrow brings us into Kincora Hostel, Hampton. Only a 6 mile day!
- posted by enzed :)
6 mile day made it a nero into Erwin. It wasn't the best 6 miles as I twisted my right ankle as well (not bad but it needs strapping). I haven't fallen apart completely yet, honestly!!
We stayed at a hostel called Uncle Johnny's which was one of the nicest ones I have stayed at apart from the Hiker Hostel. We all pitched in and stayed in 'grandmas cabin' which was 5 star - full lounge, double room, bathroom with shower and a kitchen. It was awesome. We even cooked dinner - chicken strips and salad (lettuce, capsicum, feta) with tomato & basil brushetta for entree. It was delicious :). It's definitely all about food.
Resupply and laundry all done we had a great day hanging out in the 27deg heat meeting all the hikers coming in during the day. It was great catching up with people.
Tue 12 Apr Day 33
We were going to head out by 8.30am but got sucked into the hostel vortex and the incoming rain made it difficult to leave. So it was after 10 when we set out on the 16.7mi journey to Cherry Gap Shelter.
The trail was really good - we even had to jump over a train (just to make the start of the day interesting). Nice inclines and not too much downhill BUT the weather packed it in at the 12mi mark and it got really cold. I did the dumbest thing and didn't get changed soon enough and ended up getting really cold too. So cold that when I reached the shelter my hands didn't work at all and it took over 4hours for me to warm up in my sleeping bag (with totally new dry clothes on too). Lesson learnt. It wasn't a pleasant afternoon.
I did sleep well though - right through to 8.30!
Wed 13 Apr Day 34
Due to us all sleeping in and waiting for the weather to change we had a late start today too (12.30). The guys (Cascades, Redwood & Lego) set up a fire and dried clothes, packs, boots, socks, etc. There were a few casualties though - 3 pairs of socks got toasted (2 with holes) and one of my boots had the tongue singed! Bugger about that but I'm calling it a battle scar - it adds character.
The 9 miles we did today brought us to Clyde Smith Shelter (a little short of the 16 miles we were going to do). But it was too late in the day to continue and all of us were pretty much over the hiking from yesterday.
Lazing in the sun, calf massages, music, dinner and dessert. What a great way to spend the afternoon. Only 2 more nights out of Kincora Hostel near Hampton.
And the weather is back to hot and sunny! Yay.
Thur 14 Apr Day 35
So the plan today was a nice 14.3 to Overmountain Shelter. This involved a 2265' ascent of Roan Mountain (over only 4mi)!!
I had my head down bum up and completely missed the Roan Shelter (the highest on the AT) and I cruised into the shelter before Overmountain at 1.15pm. It was a gorgeous day so a decision was made to continue onto the Apple House Shelter (to make the total miles 23 for the day)!!
It was the most amazing day - I was humming along. I got into the shelter within 9.5hrs. We all made it the full way. A very tiring day though.
Fri 15 Apr Day 36
It was difficult to get up this morning but it was to be another long day - 18.9. I didn't really realize how big a week we have done. It was a struggle today especially being tired and the fact it was long. BUT we did it!
The last 2 days we have hiked 42 miles. Amazing :)
Tomorrow brings us into Kincora Hostel, Hampton. Only a 6 mile day!
- posted by enzed :)
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Hot Springs, NC to Erwin, TN
Mon 4 Apr Day 25
Wow - just completed the most miles in a day! Due to a weather warning for storms this afternoon and a freakishly fast first 6mi today, High five and I decided to push on past the intended 14.8mi shelter and head into Hot Springs - total 17.6 miles in 7hrs . It is a Trail town and has a festival next week plus hiker deals around town. It is tiny though - definitely not much to do although they do have actual hot springs and a spa resort (where we will be renting a cabin between 5 of us tomorrow). I can't wait for a total day of doing nothing (by that I mean not hiking, as most days I don't do much) :)
Today was one of the hottest (in the mid to high 20s I think) and a bit of sunburn was gained from the 7hrs out in it, but not much. The sun is hot but it doesn't burn like at home. I fully enjoyed the t-shirt and shorts weather. Let's hope once the storm passes the sun comes out again.
The plan is to head for Erwin in the next 6 days then onto Damascus, hopefully 8 days from then. I haven't checked the post office here yet (that will be tomorrow) but am looking forward to any mail along the way. I miss chatting to everyone. Internet hasn't proved as easy to gain access to. Hopefully it will improve. My last post today was from a free 20min trial which never seems to last long enough.
I am going to try and write up a gear review so far - it's all going very well but I thought it would be good to post updates. It will also be a job for tomorrow.
I hope all is well with everyone. I appreciate the comments you leave.
In case I haven't updated you yet I have just completed 279-ish miles (446km). 1900 odd to go!!
Tue 5 Apr Day 26
A crazy lightning storm lasted all night last night. I have never seen so much lightning without thunder. Definitely grateful not to have been out in it.
First priority this morning was breakfast at the local diner. We figured it must be good as there were loads of cars outside, but then realized it was the only place in town! Luckily it was good. Mammoth (another hiker) and I ordered a skillet bfast (basically everything) and were the only 2 hikers in the last week who had managed to finish it. I LOVE being able to eat anything - plus I had 3 coffees and an orange juice. Admittedly though, I didn't need lunch :)
Post office was next (thanks Sus and Maia) and booking cheaper accommodation - at cabins right on the French Broad River. There are 6 of us sharing so it works out about $11ea (which is super).
This afternoon I glued the tip of my shoe back on; went for a hot pool soak (which by the way was awesome); sorted out food for the next 4 day trip and listened to Mumford & Sons and The Boat That Rocked soundtrack. It's great having a day off.
I am going to 'zero' tomorrow too as I have a couple of things to pick up and my legs are still a bit stiff (it is good to have the rest).
I will be in Damascus by the 19th April. It has the largest trail festival and is famous as a hiker town. I will miss Trail Days as I am a bit early, but might get to go back if there are rides on offer. It is a great weekend gathering of hikers. It is also nearly the 500mi mark (465) which is quite a milestone and most people who make it to here get to Katahdin.
Wed 6 Apr Day 27
It was nice knowing that I wasn't going anywhere today - not that any if us slept in though. Awake at dawn-ish.
The jobs today consisted of food (chocolate milk, rice krispies & coffee) followed by Internet checking, banana split, fuel supply and then having more ice-cream and a beer. Then I had a shower. It's 2.45pm and it is definitely the day for chilling out. The next item on the agenda is pizza for dinner!! Man its all about the food! (and no worries about the calories - even better).
Heading out of here tomorrow up another hill - it will only be a 12miler (just to ease back into things). Cross fingers the weather holds.
Thur 7 Apr Day 28
It was great to get up and get ready inside. It makes life so much easier - but it's those small things that hikers appreciate out here.
Today was only a 11.4miler but it felt a lot worse - I'm not sure if having 2 days off was a good idea. My body still aches even though it has had rest - I think it is also just one of those things that out here something hurts every day. It's just the way it is.
We made it through to Spring Mountain Shelter in good time though and have spent the arvo chilling out with others - Chris and his dog Sierra, and U-haul (he has a 50lb pack!!). There are more on the way so it will be a packed shelter tonight (there are only 5 spaces) and some will have to camp.
It would have to be the first shelter I have seen in such poor condition - some floorboards are missing and others are at different levels. It does have a roof though so I can't really complain :)
It's almost dinner time - yep 4.30 or 5pm is the usual. Hmmm what will it be tonight? Oh yeah, packet pasta and salmon (that's fairly usual too). I haven't had 2min noodles yet - can't wait til the day I want them for variety though! (yeah right).
Weather is holding. It's a very pleasant 20 odd deg. Just right.
Fri 8 Apr Day 29
Up before dawn to get to Trail Magic breakfast - there are a couple who did the trail in '99 who make food for any hiker that calls in during the day. And its not just any food either...for starters we had raisin bread and waffles with maple syrup and butter (with a choice of any drink you could think of), then beef stew with veges followed by dessert (and not just one choice - fudge brownie sundae, bread pudding w apricots, banana split, or apple crisp (crumble). I had a combo fudge brownie sundae with a banana (and ice-cream of course). Plus a cup of tea to finish with - we could have even had 2nds if we wanted or could fit it in!!
Hauling ourselves up the first hill was definitely a mission and we certainly did't need lunch today either. The nicest part of the AT so far came after the hill - it had the easiest stretches followed by a ridge run over boulders which was a lot of fun. However it was my SOREST day so far too - my feet (particularly the left one - it seems to be all injuries on one side) gave up today. The arches are pulling a bit and I had had enough of being sore every day so far! :(
But I'm ok now - still arrived at the shelter on time, had skittles, relaxed a bit, taped my foot which seems to make it feel better (cross fingers for tomorrow) and ate dinner. All these things plus the company of others (High-five, Cascades & Sierra, Lego and Redwood) make the journey worth it.
Tomorrow is a 14.7 miler. Let's hope the weather still holds until Erwin in a couple of days.
Sat 9 Apr Day 30
Great nights sleep - another 11 hrs :) I strapped my foot and it held up surprisingly well - only got sore around the 13mi mark but was bearable.
It was a day for big ups and downs. I still much prefer the ups as the downs hurt my feet more. But am still trudging on and did the 14.7 in 7hrs (which included lunch stop). Got to the shelter and it was full - first time this has happened. High-five and cascades got the last 2 spots as there are 2 SOBOs here tonight too. So 'Grandpa' and I had to pitch our tents. Grandpa is a thru-hiker I just met today.
So with severe weather predicted for tonight I have cooked dinner and am tucked up in the tent all ready for bed - except it's really light outside and not very social in my one person tent!! Might be the night for reading a book or getting extra rest for our attempted 20 mile tomorrow.
Sun 10 Apr Day 31
So the severe weather warning bought gumball sized hail, rain, lightning and thunder til 2am. Thankfully my tent withstood the elements and I slept quite well despite the light show.
However it is always worse when you have to pack up a wet tent in the morning. We were away by 7.15 in order to get trail magic bfast this morning. There was an ex-thru hiker (Quiet Paul) who cooks up scrambled eggs, hash browns and sausages with juice, oranges and sodas for every hiker that passes through a car park at an intersection. It was amazing. I still cant get over how generous the trail angels are. We also got trail magic this afternoon (just when it was really needed today too). Powerade and an apple were my choices but there were sodas and candy bars on offer too.
So returning to the point about needing/appreciating the trail magic - I did a 20.7mi day today!!!!! That's 33km (almost to Raglan). Wahoo. Not feeling too bad and we pulled into No Business shelter at 5.45pm. It was a long day but we are now only 5.7mi out of Erwin, TN.
It was an awesome day - views from Big Bald Mountain were amazing and there were some great uphill hauls. The downhills weren't all that bad either which probably is the reason why I am feeling ok. I guess the real test will be whether I can walk in the morning!! :)
- posted by >enzed :)
Wow - just completed the most miles in a day! Due to a weather warning for storms this afternoon and a freakishly fast first 6mi today, High five and I decided to push on past the intended 14.8mi shelter and head into Hot Springs - total 17.6 miles in 7hrs . It is a Trail town and has a festival next week plus hiker deals around town. It is tiny though - definitely not much to do although they do have actual hot springs and a spa resort (where we will be renting a cabin between 5 of us tomorrow). I can't wait for a total day of doing nothing (by that I mean not hiking, as most days I don't do much) :)
Today was one of the hottest (in the mid to high 20s I think) and a bit of sunburn was gained from the 7hrs out in it, but not much. The sun is hot but it doesn't burn like at home. I fully enjoyed the t-shirt and shorts weather. Let's hope once the storm passes the sun comes out again.
The plan is to head for Erwin in the next 6 days then onto Damascus, hopefully 8 days from then. I haven't checked the post office here yet (that will be tomorrow) but am looking forward to any mail along the way. I miss chatting to everyone. Internet hasn't proved as easy to gain access to. Hopefully it will improve. My last post today was from a free 20min trial which never seems to last long enough.
I am going to try and write up a gear review so far - it's all going very well but I thought it would be good to post updates. It will also be a job for tomorrow.
I hope all is well with everyone. I appreciate the comments you leave.
In case I haven't updated you yet I have just completed 279-ish miles (446km). 1900 odd to go!!
Tue 5 Apr Day 26
A crazy lightning storm lasted all night last night. I have never seen so much lightning without thunder. Definitely grateful not to have been out in it.
First priority this morning was breakfast at the local diner. We figured it must be good as there were loads of cars outside, but then realized it was the only place in town! Luckily it was good. Mammoth (another hiker) and I ordered a skillet bfast (basically everything) and were the only 2 hikers in the last week who had managed to finish it. I LOVE being able to eat anything - plus I had 3 coffees and an orange juice. Admittedly though, I didn't need lunch :)
Post office was next (thanks Sus and Maia) and booking cheaper accommodation - at cabins right on the French Broad River. There are 6 of us sharing so it works out about $11ea (which is super).
This afternoon I glued the tip of my shoe back on; went for a hot pool soak (which by the way was awesome); sorted out food for the next 4 day trip and listened to Mumford & Sons and The Boat That Rocked soundtrack. It's great having a day off.
I am going to 'zero' tomorrow too as I have a couple of things to pick up and my legs are still a bit stiff (it is good to have the rest).
I will be in Damascus by the 19th April. It has the largest trail festival and is famous as a hiker town. I will miss Trail Days as I am a bit early, but might get to go back if there are rides on offer. It is a great weekend gathering of hikers. It is also nearly the 500mi mark (465) which is quite a milestone and most people who make it to here get to Katahdin.
Wed 6 Apr Day 27
It was nice knowing that I wasn't going anywhere today - not that any if us slept in though. Awake at dawn-ish.
The jobs today consisted of food (chocolate milk, rice krispies & coffee) followed by Internet checking, banana split, fuel supply and then having more ice-cream and a beer. Then I had a shower. It's 2.45pm and it is definitely the day for chilling out. The next item on the agenda is pizza for dinner!! Man its all about the food! (and no worries about the calories - even better).
Heading out of here tomorrow up another hill - it will only be a 12miler (just to ease back into things). Cross fingers the weather holds.
Thur 7 Apr Day 28
It was great to get up and get ready inside. It makes life so much easier - but it's those small things that hikers appreciate out here.
Today was only a 11.4miler but it felt a lot worse - I'm not sure if having 2 days off was a good idea. My body still aches even though it has had rest - I think it is also just one of those things that out here something hurts every day. It's just the way it is.
We made it through to Spring Mountain Shelter in good time though and have spent the arvo chilling out with others - Chris and his dog Sierra, and U-haul (he has a 50lb pack!!). There are more on the way so it will be a packed shelter tonight (there are only 5 spaces) and some will have to camp.
It would have to be the first shelter I have seen in such poor condition - some floorboards are missing and others are at different levels. It does have a roof though so I can't really complain :)
It's almost dinner time - yep 4.30 or 5pm is the usual. Hmmm what will it be tonight? Oh yeah, packet pasta and salmon (that's fairly usual too). I haven't had 2min noodles yet - can't wait til the day I want them for variety though! (yeah right).
Weather is holding. It's a very pleasant 20 odd deg. Just right.
Fri 8 Apr Day 29
Up before dawn to get to Trail Magic breakfast - there are a couple who did the trail in '99 who make food for any hiker that calls in during the day. And its not just any food either...for starters we had raisin bread and waffles with maple syrup and butter (with a choice of any drink you could think of), then beef stew with veges followed by dessert (and not just one choice - fudge brownie sundae, bread pudding w apricots, banana split, or apple crisp (crumble). I had a combo fudge brownie sundae with a banana (and ice-cream of course). Plus a cup of tea to finish with - we could have even had 2nds if we wanted or could fit it in!!
Hauling ourselves up the first hill was definitely a mission and we certainly did't need lunch today either. The nicest part of the AT so far came after the hill - it had the easiest stretches followed by a ridge run over boulders which was a lot of fun. However it was my SOREST day so far too - my feet (particularly the left one - it seems to be all injuries on one side) gave up today. The arches are pulling a bit and I had had enough of being sore every day so far! :(
But I'm ok now - still arrived at the shelter on time, had skittles, relaxed a bit, taped my foot which seems to make it feel better (cross fingers for tomorrow) and ate dinner. All these things plus the company of others (High-five, Cascades & Sierra, Lego and Redwood) make the journey worth it.
Tomorrow is a 14.7 miler. Let's hope the weather still holds until Erwin in a couple of days.
Sat 9 Apr Day 30
Great nights sleep - another 11 hrs :) I strapped my foot and it held up surprisingly well - only got sore around the 13mi mark but was bearable.
It was a day for big ups and downs. I still much prefer the ups as the downs hurt my feet more. But am still trudging on and did the 14.7 in 7hrs (which included lunch stop). Got to the shelter and it was full - first time this has happened. High-five and cascades got the last 2 spots as there are 2 SOBOs here tonight too. So 'Grandpa' and I had to pitch our tents. Grandpa is a thru-hiker I just met today.
So with severe weather predicted for tonight I have cooked dinner and am tucked up in the tent all ready for bed - except it's really light outside and not very social in my one person tent!! Might be the night for reading a book or getting extra rest for our attempted 20 mile tomorrow.
Sun 10 Apr Day 31
So the severe weather warning bought gumball sized hail, rain, lightning and thunder til 2am. Thankfully my tent withstood the elements and I slept quite well despite the light show.
However it is always worse when you have to pack up a wet tent in the morning. We were away by 7.15 in order to get trail magic bfast this morning. There was an ex-thru hiker (Quiet Paul) who cooks up scrambled eggs, hash browns and sausages with juice, oranges and sodas for every hiker that passes through a car park at an intersection. It was amazing. I still cant get over how generous the trail angels are. We also got trail magic this afternoon (just when it was really needed today too). Powerade and an apple were my choices but there were sodas and candy bars on offer too.
So returning to the point about needing/appreciating the trail magic - I did a 20.7mi day today!!!!! That's 33km (almost to Raglan). Wahoo. Not feeling too bad and we pulled into No Business shelter at 5.45pm. It was a long day but we are now only 5.7mi out of Erwin, TN.
It was an awesome day - views from Big Bald Mountain were amazing and there were some great uphill hauls. The downhills weren't all that bad either which probably is the reason why I am feeling ok. I guess the real test will be whether I can walk in the morning!! :)
- posted by >enzed :)
GEAR REVIEW
I'm not sure of the best way to do this but thought I would list the gear I'm using and any pros and cons I have found.
TENT - Macpac microlite.
Pros: very quick to put up and pack away (especially in the rain); it's lightweight.
Cons: not sure yet
SLEEPING MAT - Thermarest Prolite+
Pros: it's a great insulator; self inflates mostly (only 4 breaths needed); super comfy
Cons: it's relatively heavy; it's stored shape can be awkward for packing.
COOKING - Ultralite Trangia, Light my fire flint, Denatured alcohol.
Pros: light; small; tough; relatively quick to boil; alcohol fuel cheap and economical; fuel stored in collapsable platypus bladder, which is great!
Cons: more difficult to light when cold (although has always lit with a lighter).
FLATWARE - Sea to Summit bowl and cup
Pros: light and space saving size.
Cons: heat retention not great but adequate; silicon has split (but not sure if this was a mouse attack or not!!).
RAIN GEAR - Marmot jacket and over trousers (lightweight).
Pros: lightweight yet very effective; easy to clean; great sleeve ventilation and wrist closures.
Cons: zips should pull down to close (easier to do in the cold).
PACK - Macpac Adventure Racing Pack
Pros: it's light; great pockets (especially on hip belt); it's doing a great job.
Cons: it's small (makes packing very specific).
POLES - Black Diamond Ergo Cork with end protector caps
Pros: easy to alter; stay in position; comfy grips; don't slip.
Cons: mice have gnawed at handles (from the salt/sweat build up), but this can be sanded smooth again - so maybe a pro.
SLEEPING BAG - One Planet Zephyr 550 Reg
Pros: packs up small; super warm; foot zip; can completely unzip.
Cons: must keep dry (down) but this hasn't been a problem yet.
SHOES - Merrell Moab Gortex Ventilators
Pros: The best shoes I have worn hiking. Stepping in puddles and snow has not been a problem (or no worse than other people with hightop/gortex boots); lightweight and dry quickly.
Cons: the tip of one boot has peeled slightly but I never experienced this on my other pair - it was easy to repair.
CLOTHING - total list
Icebreaker long sleeved 360 x 2 (use one for day and one as emergency dry); icebreaker leggings (are getting holes in and are also now too large, I am using my old standard polyprop leggings more often and will prob get rid of my others when temp gets warmer); icebreaker 150 and 200 t-shirts - use everyday and are holding up well with machine washing and drying; Kathmandu zip-off trousers - I ditched the zip off parts in first week and now just have shorts, used everyday but are getting too big (will either have to alter or replace soon); Buff - ideal as a headband for keeping hair and sweat out of face, plus good for wiping snot on :) ; Bridgedale socks - one ankle length and one mid length lite hiking. Both holding up well although one pair got nibbled by mice and will need a mend but its only on the upper so no big deal; icebreaker bras x2 and undies x2 - both wearing really well and holding up to machine washing and driers.
I also have:
3 x Sea To Summit dry bags (food, trash & valuables)
1 x titanium spork
1 x lighter
Black rubbish bag as pack liner
And that is pretty much about all...
Will keep this updated if things change
- posted by enzed :)
- posted by enzed :)
- posted by enzed :)
TENT - Macpac microlite.
Pros: very quick to put up and pack away (especially in the rain); it's lightweight.
Cons: not sure yet
SLEEPING MAT - Thermarest Prolite+
Pros: it's a great insulator; self inflates mostly (only 4 breaths needed); super comfy
Cons: it's relatively heavy; it's stored shape can be awkward for packing.
COOKING - Ultralite Trangia, Light my fire flint, Denatured alcohol.
Pros: light; small; tough; relatively quick to boil; alcohol fuel cheap and economical; fuel stored in collapsable platypus bladder, which is great!
Cons: more difficult to light when cold (although has always lit with a lighter).
FLATWARE - Sea to Summit bowl and cup
Pros: light and space saving size.
Cons: heat retention not great but adequate; silicon has split (but not sure if this was a mouse attack or not!!).
RAIN GEAR - Marmot jacket and over trousers (lightweight).
Pros: lightweight yet very effective; easy to clean; great sleeve ventilation and wrist closures.
Cons: zips should pull down to close (easier to do in the cold).
PACK - Macpac Adventure Racing Pack
Pros: it's light; great pockets (especially on hip belt); it's doing a great job.
Cons: it's small (makes packing very specific).
POLES - Black Diamond Ergo Cork with end protector caps
Pros: easy to alter; stay in position; comfy grips; don't slip.
Cons: mice have gnawed at handles (from the salt/sweat build up), but this can be sanded smooth again - so maybe a pro.
SLEEPING BAG - One Planet Zephyr 550 Reg
Pros: packs up small; super warm; foot zip; can completely unzip.
Cons: must keep dry (down) but this hasn't been a problem yet.
SHOES - Merrell Moab Gortex Ventilators
Pros: The best shoes I have worn hiking. Stepping in puddles and snow has not been a problem (or no worse than other people with hightop/gortex boots); lightweight and dry quickly.
Cons: the tip of one boot has peeled slightly but I never experienced this on my other pair - it was easy to repair.
CLOTHING - total list
Icebreaker long sleeved 360 x 2 (use one for day and one as emergency dry); icebreaker leggings (are getting holes in and are also now too large, I am using my old standard polyprop leggings more often and will prob get rid of my others when temp gets warmer); icebreaker 150 and 200 t-shirts - use everyday and are holding up well with machine washing and drying; Kathmandu zip-off trousers - I ditched the zip off parts in first week and now just have shorts, used everyday but are getting too big (will either have to alter or replace soon); Buff - ideal as a headband for keeping hair and sweat out of face, plus good for wiping snot on :) ; Bridgedale socks - one ankle length and one mid length lite hiking. Both holding up well although one pair got nibbled by mice and will need a mend but its only on the upper so no big deal; icebreaker bras x2 and undies x2 - both wearing really well and holding up to machine washing and driers.
I also have:
3 x Sea To Summit dry bags (food, trash & valuables)
1 x titanium spork
1 x lighter
Black rubbish bag as pack liner
And that is pretty much about all...
Will keep this updated if things change
- posted by enzed :)
- posted by enzed :)
- posted by enzed :)
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
From the Smokeys to Hot Springs
Sun 3 Apr Day 24
We had a beautiful night at Standing Bear hostel. Great sleep - probably my best yet. Nice start to the day with bright blue sky, standard oatmeal out of the packet and a Starbucks 'Via' coffee. Yeeha!
High-Five and I made super time up and over the first massive hill. Then came hill #2 - it was like Panikere Bluff (but of course way shorter) :)
The first highlight was Snowbird mountain - the view from which was amazing. Views for MILES! but Max Patch was the highlight of the day (and maybe the trip so far) - what a view. All the way across the States (not quite but man it was awesome). It was impressive to see where we had been walking the past few days/weeks!
The body is holding up despite the miles. Still no blisters, the ankle is ok (I'm going to give it some attention in town) and the thumb is still taped but it's ok too. The sorest parts are the bones if my feet where my arch is supported (I think they need a break) and my right shoulder strap has been pinching a nerve I think, so sometimes it's been excruciating but then it's fine - so will hopefully fix that in Hot Springs too with a hot soak and massage! Oh yeah!
Am pleased with efforts so far. I have hiked 262 miles to date - that's 10.9 mi/day average. Not bad for now as there are some flatter sections ahead. More to come :)
- posted by enzed :)
We had a beautiful night at Standing Bear hostel. Great sleep - probably my best yet. Nice start to the day with bright blue sky, standard oatmeal out of the packet and a Starbucks 'Via' coffee. Yeeha!
High-Five and I made super time up and over the first massive hill. Then came hill #2 - it was like Panikere Bluff (but of course way shorter) :)
The first highlight was Snowbird mountain - the view from which was amazing. Views for MILES! but Max Patch was the highlight of the day (and maybe the trip so far) - what a view. All the way across the States (not quite but man it was awesome). It was impressive to see where we had been walking the past few days/weeks!
The body is holding up despite the miles. Still no blisters, the ankle is ok (I'm going to give it some attention in town) and the thumb is still taped but it's ok too. The sorest parts are the bones if my feet where my arch is supported (I think they need a break) and my right shoulder strap has been pinching a nerve I think, so sometimes it's been excruciating but then it's fine - so will hopefully fix that in Hot Springs too with a hot soak and massage! Oh yeah!
Am pleased with efforts so far. I have hiked 262 miles to date - that's 10.9 mi/day average. Not bad for now as there are some flatter sections ahead. More to come :)
- posted by enzed :)
Heading into the Smokeys
Ok this is quite a big one as I have just headed through the Great Smokey Mountains.
Lots of firsts:
Longest day miles -16.7
Longest day hours - 8 (diff day)
Highest point on AT; First below freezing night (-4deg); first snow walking day thru a winter wonderland; walking with both a strapped ankle AND a thumb (info to come); first time spending 15 hrs in a sleeping bag and NOT having to pee (but that's probably enough info...).
Mon 28 MarDay 18
The Fontana 'Hilton' Shelter is really nice - it has the best location I have seen so far. It overlooks the Fontana Lake and it has been sunny enough to enjoy it too :)
Then the trail magic began - an ex-trail walker turned up with his BBQ and cooked hotdogs, had cokes and corn chips. It was awesome. Complete with ketchup and mustard!! There was a group of about 15 and we ate so much food and had so many laughs. It was a good night.
But this morning was a bit if a tough one - up at 6am so High Five and I could leave at 7. It was raining and fairly miserable but we had to make a start on the smokeys. The coldest part of the day was the very first part - crossing the dam! The wind was freezing.
But of course we warmed up and we had the best (and longest) day so far - 16.7mi!! Wahoo - we are stoked with our effort today. There was a lot of green, new leaves and bits of view when the clouds cleared along with the fancy looking shelters (stone walled with double layers and fire places) - still not sure why they can't put front walls on these things though, coz it's freezing when the wind blows.
High five and I are planning on a shorter day tomorrow (just 13.5mi) but are not too sure what the rest of the smokeys will bring. The highest point on the AT (Clingman's Dome) 6643' will be reached in the next two days. Quite excited about that.
Tues 29 MarDay19
Well the smokeys dished out some pain today for us both. It was only 13.5mi but by the end I was knackered. It doesn't help that I haven't had a zero for 9 days. Vitamin I (ibuprofen) was taken tonight.
Despite the pain the day was gorgeous - the views were the best I have seen so far. Rows of mountains 9 deep into the horizon!! Clouds hanging in the valleys and the sun shone in a bright blue sky! Magic :)
Hope the rain that's predicted for tomorrow isn't too bad.
Wed 30 MarDay20
Well the rain wasn't so bad - just loads of cloud cover. Which was a bummer as we passed over Clingman's Dome (highest point on AT) today. It wasn't a great start for me today - I am really tired (should be resting but it's too cold here and I have limited food so must push on) and due to yet another thoughtless moment (I tried prying my thermals off with my thumb) I dislocated my thumb again!
So I haven't learnt to take rest days yet - will be doing that soon though (6 days to go). My feet are the sorest but I still don't have any blisters so that's a bonus. And as always, the pack gets lighter so it's not all bad.
It's great traveling with High Five as well as the time passes more quickly-and it's great to have a Chardonnay (or any other 'whine') when there is only a mile left in the day :).
Only 3 days left in the Smokeys.
Thur 31 MarDay21
So the rain stopped and made preparing bfast a much more pleasant experience. Nothing had dried out and it all smells awful (including me) but I must admit only the shoes are the worst. They are in desperate need of a clean, but that will have to wait 'til town (Hot Springs).
It's been 9 days since I was clean too so I am looking forward to town also.
We have been sleeping late the last few days -we are a bit knackered really. There were 12.6mi today and they were actually pretty good. The sun even came out for a bit and we had some great views. Then it snowed!
Holy moly it is cold. Just above freeing inside the shelter-I'm in my sleeping bag and am forgoing cooking dinner (instead it's two muesli bars). Much better being warm.
2 days left in the smokeys.
Fri 1 Apr Day 22
Wow -4deg this morning!!!! We didn't get out of bed 'til 8.30 and even then it was still below freezing. It's the longest time I've spent in a sleeping bag I think.
Plus it was the worst experience I have had of putting on frozen socks and boots! There were lots of swear words said by us both this morning. BUT the sun came out and fixed the downer mood and we set off on a lovely, short rest day of 7miles. It was THE most gorgeous and pretty day I have had. It had snowed about an inch overnight and everything was covered. High-Five and I got some cool photos I hope. The sun shone and the blue sky was great to see after the last couple of gray days.
We arrived at Cosby Knob Shelter with plenty of afternoon to spare and with trail magic left by someone - a dehydrated breakfast mix (egg, hash browns, tomatoes and pork sausage) Delish!! Just what we needed and a sit in the sun for an hour.
It's now 5pm and I've eaten dinner, brushed teeth, hung bear bag and am in s/bag again. Much warmer and comfy!! It's the standard ritual for the moment - I cant wait 'til it's warm though!!
1 day left in the smokeys - and only 10.5miles to go.
Sat 2 Apr Day 23
It was a 6.30am start so that we could get through the 10.5mi to Standing Bear Hostel (just across the I-40) by lunch time. There was a thunder and lightning storm at 5am but it had luckily passed through by the time we got up. There were a couple of inches of snow on the ground which made sorting out the rocks and tree roots kinda interesting.
It's a good hike downhill for the day - but I think they are getting easier.
What a great day - hanging out in the sun, having beer and pizza (which was free!!). A great half day here. Ready for a 14.8mi tomorrow.
I have met some more new hikers in the past couple of days, plus catching up with old friends. It is a great bunch of people but it's leading to some late nights with guitar playing and more beers.
So that's the end of the Smokeys! Glad it's done - one section done. Heading to Hot Springs next.
- posted by enzed :)
Lots of firsts:
Longest day miles -16.7
Longest day hours - 8 (diff day)
Highest point on AT; First below freezing night (-4deg); first snow walking day thru a winter wonderland; walking with both a strapped ankle AND a thumb (info to come); first time spending 15 hrs in a sleeping bag and NOT having to pee (but that's probably enough info...).
Mon 28 MarDay 18
The Fontana 'Hilton' Shelter is really nice - it has the best location I have seen so far. It overlooks the Fontana Lake and it has been sunny enough to enjoy it too :)
Then the trail magic began - an ex-trail walker turned up with his BBQ and cooked hotdogs, had cokes and corn chips. It was awesome. Complete with ketchup and mustard!! There was a group of about 15 and we ate so much food and had so many laughs. It was a good night.
But this morning was a bit if a tough one - up at 6am so High Five and I could leave at 7. It was raining and fairly miserable but we had to make a start on the smokeys. The coldest part of the day was the very first part - crossing the dam! The wind was freezing.
But of course we warmed up and we had the best (and longest) day so far - 16.7mi!! Wahoo - we are stoked with our effort today. There was a lot of green, new leaves and bits of view when the clouds cleared along with the fancy looking shelters (stone walled with double layers and fire places) - still not sure why they can't put front walls on these things though, coz it's freezing when the wind blows.
High five and I are planning on a shorter day tomorrow (just 13.5mi) but are not too sure what the rest of the smokeys will bring. The highest point on the AT (Clingman's Dome) 6643' will be reached in the next two days. Quite excited about that.
Tues 29 MarDay19
Well the smokeys dished out some pain today for us both. It was only 13.5mi but by the end I was knackered. It doesn't help that I haven't had a zero for 9 days. Vitamin I (ibuprofen) was taken tonight.
Despite the pain the day was gorgeous - the views were the best I have seen so far. Rows of mountains 9 deep into the horizon!! Clouds hanging in the valleys and the sun shone in a bright blue sky! Magic :)
Hope the rain that's predicted for tomorrow isn't too bad.
Wed 30 MarDay20
Well the rain wasn't so bad - just loads of cloud cover. Which was a bummer as we passed over Clingman's Dome (highest point on AT) today. It wasn't a great start for me today - I am really tired (should be resting but it's too cold here and I have limited food so must push on) and due to yet another thoughtless moment (I tried prying my thermals off with my thumb) I dislocated my thumb again!
So I haven't learnt to take rest days yet - will be doing that soon though (6 days to go). My feet are the sorest but I still don't have any blisters so that's a bonus. And as always, the pack gets lighter so it's not all bad.
It's great traveling with High Five as well as the time passes more quickly-and it's great to have a Chardonnay (or any other 'whine') when there is only a mile left in the day :).
Only 3 days left in the Smokeys.
Thur 31 MarDay21
So the rain stopped and made preparing bfast a much more pleasant experience. Nothing had dried out and it all smells awful (including me) but I must admit only the shoes are the worst. They are in desperate need of a clean, but that will have to wait 'til town (Hot Springs).
It's been 9 days since I was clean too so I am looking forward to town also.
We have been sleeping late the last few days -we are a bit knackered really. There were 12.6mi today and they were actually pretty good. The sun even came out for a bit and we had some great views. Then it snowed!
Holy moly it is cold. Just above freeing inside the shelter-I'm in my sleeping bag and am forgoing cooking dinner (instead it's two muesli bars). Much better being warm.
2 days left in the smokeys.
Fri 1 Apr Day 22
Wow -4deg this morning!!!! We didn't get out of bed 'til 8.30 and even then it was still below freezing. It's the longest time I've spent in a sleeping bag I think.
Plus it was the worst experience I have had of putting on frozen socks and boots! There were lots of swear words said by us both this morning. BUT the sun came out and fixed the downer mood and we set off on a lovely, short rest day of 7miles. It was THE most gorgeous and pretty day I have had. It had snowed about an inch overnight and everything was covered. High-Five and I got some cool photos I hope. The sun shone and the blue sky was great to see after the last couple of gray days.
We arrived at Cosby Knob Shelter with plenty of afternoon to spare and with trail magic left by someone - a dehydrated breakfast mix (egg, hash browns, tomatoes and pork sausage) Delish!! Just what we needed and a sit in the sun for an hour.
It's now 5pm and I've eaten dinner, brushed teeth, hung bear bag and am in s/bag again. Much warmer and comfy!! It's the standard ritual for the moment - I cant wait 'til it's warm though!!
1 day left in the smokeys - and only 10.5miles to go.
Sat 2 Apr Day 23
It was a 6.30am start so that we could get through the 10.5mi to Standing Bear Hostel (just across the I-40) by lunch time. There was a thunder and lightning storm at 5am but it had luckily passed through by the time we got up. There were a couple of inches of snow on the ground which made sorting out the rocks and tree roots kinda interesting.
It's a good hike downhill for the day - but I think they are getting easier.
What a great day - hanging out in the sun, having beer and pizza (which was free!!). A great half day here. Ready for a 14.8mi tomorrow.
I have met some more new hikers in the past couple of days, plus catching up with old friends. It is a great bunch of people but it's leading to some late nights with guitar playing and more beers.
So that's the end of the Smokeys! Glad it's done - one section done. Heading to Hot Springs next.
- posted by enzed :)
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