Weather:
Sunny and breezy, high around 78 degrees. No rain.
Today's Hike:
Spring Fed Pond to Jenkins Shelter - 11.8 miles
It was an iPod Day. iPod days are days that you hike, but you don't want to hike so to get through it you plug into your iPod, find your happy tunes and find your inner motivation. I was tired. About 75% of the day was downhill, so by 3pm, my knees were done. We were supposed to hike 16.6 miles. When I met up with Muster at Jenkins Shelter at 5pm with the Packadivas she asked me where we were setting up the tent. That was the best music I had heard all day, and I didn't even want to question the other 5 miles we were suppose to do.
I threw down the tent were I wanted to have it set up and made my way to the privy. I passed Egg on my way and she informed me that the thrown was now available. As I turned the corner of the trail I saw what she meant, the privy was completely open. Awesome. Now I could do my personal business with a wonderful view!
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Day 59
Weather:
Afternoon and evening thunderstorms.
Today's Hike:
Crawfish Valley to Spring Fed Pond Campsite - 14.9 miles
It started thundering around noon today. We hung around Knot Maul Branch Shelter with the Packadivas for about 2 hours hoping the storm would pass. At 2:30 the thunder was still persistent, but there was no rain so we all decided to push on. Four hours later the rain started. After a steep climb up Chestnut Knob, we arrived at the campsite at 7:30pm. The rain was starting to come down pretty hard. We thought the rain would get worse instead of better, so for the first time we had to set the tent up in the rain. Disastrous. Everything was soaked, and Muster was pissed! As luck would have it, he rain stopped about 15 minutes after we had set up and gotten in. Ugh. Lesson learned - if its raining wait until it stops.
Afternoon and evening thunderstorms.
Today's Hike:
Crawfish Valley to Spring Fed Pond Campsite - 14.9 miles
It started thundering around noon today. We hung around Knot Maul Branch Shelter with the Packadivas for about 2 hours hoping the storm would pass. At 2:30 the thunder was still persistent, but there was no rain so we all decided to push on. Four hours later the rain started. After a steep climb up Chestnut Knob, we arrived at the campsite at 7:30pm. The rain was starting to come down pretty hard. We thought the rain would get worse instead of better, so for the first time we had to set the tent up in the rain. Disastrous. Everything was soaked, and Muster was pissed! As luck would have it, he rain stopped about 15 minutes after we had set up and gotten in. Ugh. Lesson learned - if its raining wait until it stops.
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Day 58
Weather:
Sunny, High 87 degrees.
Today's Hike:
Atkins, VA to Crawfish Valley - 6.3 miles
In preparation for this hike, I thought that I wouldn't shave my legs throughout the entire hike. In fact I was so sure of this that as part of my preparation for the hike, I stopped shaving back in October. So here I am six months later and my legs have turned into mini forests. If there were to be a hairy leg contest along the trail, I am fairly confident that not only would I beat out every women on the trail (and there are several that haven't shaved) I could also beat out most of the men. It's become rather ridiculous. I think I could braid it. Meanwhile, My trail friends/family have been trying to convince me to shave my legs for quite some time. By convince I mean threatening to take an epi-lady to my legs in my sleep. Needless to say I'm not too fond of the idea.
When I woke up this morning I stumbled into the bathroom to take care of my morning business. As I sat there looking down I really was rather grossed out by the hairiness that had become my legs. Ugh. So, I made my way over to the Chevron station, bought a few razors and some shaving cream. It took 45 minutes and six shaving cycles on each leg, but I did it. The mini forests are finally gone, now only farmers tanned legs appear :)
Sunny, High 87 degrees.
Today's Hike:
Atkins, VA to Crawfish Valley - 6.3 miles
In preparation for this hike, I thought that I wouldn't shave my legs throughout the entire hike. In fact I was so sure of this that as part of my preparation for the hike, I stopped shaving back in October. So here I am six months later and my legs have turned into mini forests. If there were to be a hairy leg contest along the trail, I am fairly confident that not only would I beat out every women on the trail (and there are several that haven't shaved) I could also beat out most of the men. It's become rather ridiculous. I think I could braid it. Meanwhile, My trail friends/family have been trying to convince me to shave my legs for quite some time. By convince I mean threatening to take an epi-lady to my legs in my sleep. Needless to say I'm not too fond of the idea.
When I woke up this morning I stumbled into the bathroom to take care of my morning business. As I sat there looking down I really was rather grossed out by the hairiness that had become my legs. Ugh. So, I made my way over to the Chevron station, bought a few razors and some shaving cream. It took 45 minutes and six shaving cycles on each leg, but I did it. The mini forests are finally gone, now only farmers tanned legs appear :)
Monday, April 27, 2009
Day 57
Weather:
Sunny; High around 80 degrees
Today's Hike:
USFS 86 to Atkins, VA - 7.4 miles
The plan for the day was to hike into Atkins, VA and resupply and then hike out again. I pulled the muscle in the bottom of my left foot and hobbled the 7.4 easy miles down to the store and was ready to quite but willing to push on. We arrived at the Shell station (our resupply place) at noon. We ate lunch, resupplied, and charged up our phone and iPods. The Georgia Girls walked in around 1pm and were staying the night next store at the Relax Inn. At 2pm, Muster bought a twelve pack (swearing that we would still hike out – it was for the girls), and walked it over to their room. All I could think about was a shower and laundry. All Muster could think about was drinking a cold beer. Two beers and a conversation later I was getting a hotel room for us for the night. In no time we were showered, our clothes were in the washer, and we were drinking a cold beer and eating cheese puffs. My feet (especially my left foot) were thanking me.
Later that night we were joined my Early Bear, Prairie Dog, and Angry Beaver. Billy Hoot and Nutmeg cooked up some Morel mushrooms that they had picked along the trail. They were amazing! It was nice to have a night off. Back on the trial in the morning.
Sunny; High around 80 degrees
Today's Hike:
USFS 86 to Atkins, VA - 7.4 miles
The plan for the day was to hike into Atkins, VA and resupply and then hike out again. I pulled the muscle in the bottom of my left foot and hobbled the 7.4 easy miles down to the store and was ready to quite but willing to push on. We arrived at the Shell station (our resupply place) at noon. We ate lunch, resupplied, and charged up our phone and iPods. The Georgia Girls walked in around 1pm and were staying the night next store at the Relax Inn. At 2pm, Muster bought a twelve pack (swearing that we would still hike out – it was for the girls), and walked it over to their room. All I could think about was a shower and laundry. All Muster could think about was drinking a cold beer. Two beers and a conversation later I was getting a hotel room for us for the night. In no time we were showered, our clothes were in the washer, and we were drinking a cold beer and eating cheese puffs. My feet (especially my left foot) were thanking me.
Later that night we were joined my Early Bear, Prairie Dog, and Angry Beaver. Billy Hoot and Nutmeg cooked up some Morel mushrooms that they had picked along the trail. They were amazing! It was nice to have a night off. Back on the trial in the morning.
Sunday, April 26, 2009
Day 56
Weather:
Sunny; no rain.
Today's Hike:
Campsite to USFS 86 – 11.0 miles
Muster and I were on the trail by 8am, motivated by the thought of Pizza Hut. We made it Partnership Shelter by 11:00. Muster went up to the Mt. Roger Visitor Center and placed our order to Pizza Hut only to be told that Pizza Hut wouldn't deliver until 4pm. That's vital hiker information that should be posted somewhere, dontcha think? Apparently, Pizza Hut won't deliver after 9pm either which our friend Kate hiked 26 miles to get there and placed her order at 9:15pm. Our evaluation ~ Pizza Hut, not so hiker friendly. Luckily, Pizza Plus would deliver and by noon we were eating pizza at the shelter. In addition, a previous thru-hiker had stopped by the shelter with a bag full of goodies, and a current thru-hiker had made a run into town and brought back ice-cold sodas and Reese's cups. It was trail magic everywhere!
Three hours later we were ready to get going again when Georgia's Girls (Nutmeg, Billy Hoot, Lil' Dipper and Boy George) strolled in. Off came the packs. We warned them about the pizza situation, ordered some more sodas ourselves and sat back with the girls for a while. Around 3pm (4 hours after arriving) the Three Amigo's showed up and we became further sucked into the shelter. As good company kept strolling in, it became harder and harder to hike out. We kept hoping that the Packadivas would stroll in as well, but we got word from another hiker that they were stopping short of the shelter for the day, so we knew we had to push on. Finally, around 5pm, we along with Georgia's Girls got our packs on and trekked 4 miles to a campsite off of USFS 86 and set up shop for the night.
On the news front I’ve been informed that the Tag Team had to get off the trail. Tagless has been having some abdominal pain on and off since Damascus, and after a rather painful morning the two hitched a ride into Marion where he visited the local emergency room. There, he was informed that he had a hernia and needed surery asap. To their dismay they immediately got a greyhound ticket home.
I’m so depressed! Of the 56 days we have spent out on the trail we have shared a minimum of 1/2 our adventure with them. I had hoped to catch up to them today. I’m wishing Tagless the best of luck and we're keeping our fingers crossed for a quick recovery. I’m already are missing them heaps!!!!
Sunny; no rain.
Today's Hike:
Campsite to USFS 86 – 11.0 miles
Muster and I were on the trail by 8am, motivated by the thought of Pizza Hut. We made it Partnership Shelter by 11:00. Muster went up to the Mt. Roger Visitor Center and placed our order to Pizza Hut only to be told that Pizza Hut wouldn't deliver until 4pm. That's vital hiker information that should be posted somewhere, dontcha think? Apparently, Pizza Hut won't deliver after 9pm either which our friend Kate hiked 26 miles to get there and placed her order at 9:15pm. Our evaluation ~ Pizza Hut, not so hiker friendly. Luckily, Pizza Plus would deliver and by noon we were eating pizza at the shelter. In addition, a previous thru-hiker had stopped by the shelter with a bag full of goodies, and a current thru-hiker had made a run into town and brought back ice-cold sodas and Reese's cups. It was trail magic everywhere!
Three hours later we were ready to get going again when Georgia's Girls (Nutmeg, Billy Hoot, Lil' Dipper and Boy George) strolled in. Off came the packs. We warned them about the pizza situation, ordered some more sodas ourselves and sat back with the girls for a while. Around 3pm (4 hours after arriving) the Three Amigo's showed up and we became further sucked into the shelter. As good company kept strolling in, it became harder and harder to hike out. We kept hoping that the Packadivas would stroll in as well, but we got word from another hiker that they were stopping short of the shelter for the day, so we knew we had to push on. Finally, around 5pm, we along with Georgia's Girls got our packs on and trekked 4 miles to a campsite off of USFS 86 and set up shop for the night.
On the news front I’ve been informed that the Tag Team had to get off the trail. Tagless has been having some abdominal pain on and off since Damascus, and after a rather painful morning the two hitched a ride into Marion where he visited the local emergency room. There, he was informed that he had a hernia and needed surery asap. To their dismay they immediately got a greyhound ticket home.
I’m so depressed! Of the 56 days we have spent out on the trail we have shared a minimum of 1/2 our adventure with them. I had hoped to catch up to them today. I’m wishing Tagless the best of luck and we're keeping our fingers crossed for a quick recovery. I’m already are missing them heaps!!!!
Saturday, April 25, 2009
Day 55
Weather:
Sunny in the morning, afternoon thunderstorms.
Today’s Hike:
Old Orchard Shelter to Campsite - 18.9 miles
Today was a shower day. Muster and I hiked about 10 miles into Hurricane Lake Campground (.5 miles off the trail) to eat lunch and take a shower. Despite having to put back on dirty clothes, it felt good to be clean. We hung around the campground until around 2:30 to allow some of the heat of the day to pass. When we got going again I could hear a thunderstorm rolling in in the distance. It rained on us for about an hour then passed. We reached Trimpi shelter around 5pm. The next day we would be passing Partnership Shelter, the one of the only shelters on the trail that you could get pizza delivered. We wanted to try to reach the shelter around lunch time, eat and then hike out some extra food for dinner that night. If we stayed at Trimpi Shelter we would have close to 11 miles to hike to Partnership the next day, which would be a late lunch. After a little debate we decided to walk another 3.8 miles to get us closer to Partnership making this our biggest mile day yet! We ended up near a farmhouse and slept to sounds of Old McDonald's Farm as vision's of pizza danced in my head.
Sunny in the morning, afternoon thunderstorms.
Today’s Hike:
Old Orchard Shelter to Campsite - 18.9 miles
Today was a shower day. Muster and I hiked about 10 miles into Hurricane Lake Campground (.5 miles off the trail) to eat lunch and take a shower. Despite having to put back on dirty clothes, it felt good to be clean. We hung around the campground until around 2:30 to allow some of the heat of the day to pass. When we got going again I could hear a thunderstorm rolling in in the distance. It rained on us for about an hour then passed. We reached Trimpi shelter around 5pm. The next day we would be passing Partnership Shelter, the one of the only shelters on the trail that you could get pizza delivered. We wanted to try to reach the shelter around lunch time, eat and then hike out some extra food for dinner that night. If we stayed at Trimpi Shelter we would have close to 11 miles to hike to Partnership the next day, which would be a late lunch. After a little debate we decided to walk another 3.8 miles to get us closer to Partnership making this our biggest mile day yet! We ended up near a farmhouse and slept to sounds of Old McDonald's Farm as vision's of pizza danced in my head.
Friday, April 24, 2009
Day 54
Weather:
Sunny and windy. High around 80 degrees.
Today’s Hike:
Thomas Knob Shelter to Old Orchard Shelter – 11.0 miles
Today was amazing! As soon as we left the shelter and stepped out into clearing a whole new world opened up. It was easy to see why this stretch of trail is a favorite among previous thru/section hikers. The mountains and vistas looked like the mountain ranges out west. It was gorgeous, and a very welcoming change from the monotonous sleeping forests we've been hiking through. Within Our first 100 yards up the trail we caught site of a huge doe, a first for us out here. Shortly after, we caught site of some of the much talked about ponies that were off in the distance.
The trail itself was leading us out over open balds, over huge rocky outcrops, and through sheer rock wall passes. Incredible. I felt like we were transported back into an old western movie, and any minute Zorro would be riding over the mountain top (with cold Cokes and fresh fruit of course).
After a short walk from the shelter we squeezed through Fatman's (a small cave like area), and came upon our first close encounter with a feral pony. Rumor had it that the ponies had no fear of people, and wouldn't hesitate to nip at you, so as we approached our first one (it was standing in the middle of the trail). We were both excited and nervous at the same time. The pony definitely didn't care that we were coming and it made a bee line right for Muster (who got a little more then nervous), but then it quickly passed to me. I hiked on by, snapping a few photo's and we went on our merry way.
Shortly thereafter we entered into Grayson Highlands State Park - the land of ponies. They were so cute! There was even a little baby that we could have scooped up and carried with us. The hike with the ponies was short, but we spent about an hour watching them and wandering the area.
By noon we had hiked out of the park and were back in the sleeping forest. The rest of the day's hike was rather rocky and hard on the feet. We reached Old Orchard shelter by 4:30pm and my feet were done. As Cindy and I sat at the picnic table debating on whether or not to stay or to hike forward Nutmeg and Billy Hoot came down and expressed how worn out they were feeling. I thought aloud that I was happy that it wasn't just me who was having a hard time dealing with the heat and terrain. Here were really tough girls who were also struggling, leaving Muster to be the odd one out. It was decided - we were staying. By 6:00pm the Divas had also hiked down and it became an evening for the girls; 10 of us to be exact: Billy Hoot, Nutmeg, Lil' Dipper, Boy George, Rocket, Grommet, Storm, Egg, Muster and myself. Nutmeg and Billy Hoot made a fire and played the guitar. It was an evening that camping was made for :)
Sunny and windy. High around 80 degrees.
Today’s Hike:
Thomas Knob Shelter to Old Orchard Shelter – 11.0 miles
Today was amazing! As soon as we left the shelter and stepped out into clearing a whole new world opened up. It was easy to see why this stretch of trail is a favorite among previous thru/section hikers. The mountains and vistas looked like the mountain ranges out west. It was gorgeous, and a very welcoming change from the monotonous sleeping forests we've been hiking through. Within Our first 100 yards up the trail we caught site of a huge doe, a first for us out here. Shortly after, we caught site of some of the much talked about ponies that were off in the distance.
The trail itself was leading us out over open balds, over huge rocky outcrops, and through sheer rock wall passes. Incredible. I felt like we were transported back into an old western movie, and any minute Zorro would be riding over the mountain top (with cold Cokes and fresh fruit of course).
After a short walk from the shelter we squeezed through Fatman's (a small cave like area), and came upon our first close encounter with a feral pony. Rumor had it that the ponies had no fear of people, and wouldn't hesitate to nip at you, so as we approached our first one (it was standing in the middle of the trail). We were both excited and nervous at the same time. The pony definitely didn't care that we were coming and it made a bee line right for Muster (who got a little more then nervous), but then it quickly passed to me. I hiked on by, snapping a few photo's and we went on our merry way.
Shortly thereafter we entered into Grayson Highlands State Park - the land of ponies. They were so cute! There was even a little baby that we could have scooped up and carried with us. The hike with the ponies was short, but we spent about an hour watching them and wandering the area.
By noon we had hiked out of the park and were back in the sleeping forest. The rest of the day's hike was rather rocky and hard on the feet. We reached Old Orchard shelter by 4:30pm and my feet were done. As Cindy and I sat at the picnic table debating on whether or not to stay or to hike forward Nutmeg and Billy Hoot came down and expressed how worn out they were feeling. I thought aloud that I was happy that it wasn't just me who was having a hard time dealing with the heat and terrain. Here were really tough girls who were also struggling, leaving Muster to be the odd one out. It was decided - we were staying. By 6:00pm the Divas had also hiked down and it became an evening for the girls; 10 of us to be exact: Billy Hoot, Nutmeg, Lil' Dipper, Boy George, Rocket, Grommet, Storm, Egg, Muster and myself. Nutmeg and Billy Hoot made a fire and played the guitar. It was an evening that camping was made for :)
Thursday, April 23, 2009
Day 53
Weather:
Sunny and windy. High around 60 degrees.
Today’s Hike:
Virginia Creeper Trail to Thomas Knob Shelter – 15.0 miles
Muster and I are tenting on top of an open bald tonight with the Packadivas, and we hear that the wild ponies are around here. I've seen plenty of their poop, but I haven't seen them yet. Hopefully I'll see them tomorrow. We hike into Grayson Highlands State Park in the morning which is suppose to be one of the most beautiful places along the trail. I can’t wait. My Uncle Mike aka Bear Bait says the ponies get close to hikers but never let hikers pet them……I think I’m still gonna try ☺
Sunny and windy. High around 60 degrees.
Today’s Hike:
Virginia Creeper Trail to Thomas Knob Shelter – 15.0 miles
Muster and I are tenting on top of an open bald tonight with the Packadivas, and we hear that the wild ponies are around here. I've seen plenty of their poop, but I haven't seen them yet. Hopefully I'll see them tomorrow. We hike into Grayson Highlands State Park in the morning which is suppose to be one of the most beautiful places along the trail. I can’t wait. My Uncle Mike aka Bear Bait says the ponies get close to hikers but never let hikers pet them……I think I’m still gonna try ☺
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Day 52
Weather:
Windy & Cool. No Rain.
Today’s Hike:
Damascus to Virginia Creeper Trail – 13.0 miles
Muster and I left Damascus,VA this morning, and I was ready go hike. After stopping by The Place to say good-bye to the Packadivas we headed off into the Wilderness. The hike was fairly easy with a slight climb to Saunders Shelter. We had planned to camp 2.4 miles past the shelter at Pond Campsite w/ the Divas but accidentally passed it by about a mile. Instead, Muster & I are tenting by the river along the Virginia Creeper Trail. Hope to catch up to the Diva's tomorrow.
Windy & Cool. No Rain.
Today’s Hike:
Damascus to Virginia Creeper Trail – 13.0 miles
Muster and I left Damascus,VA this morning, and I was ready go hike. After stopping by The Place to say good-bye to the Packadivas we headed off into the Wilderness. The hike was fairly easy with a slight climb to Saunders Shelter. We had planned to camp 2.4 miles past the shelter at Pond Campsite w/ the Divas but accidentally passed it by about a mile. Instead, Muster & I are tenting by the river along the Virginia Creeper Trail. Hope to catch up to the Diva's tomorrow.
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Day 51
Weather:
Rain.
Today’s Hike:
Damascus, VA – 0.0 miles
When I woke up this morning there wasn't a single part of me that felt like hiking today which was kind of unusual; I've always been ready to hike after a zero day. So, I gave myself a pep talk, and slowly crawled out of my sleeping bag. I got dressed, packed my pack, and got ready to head out. After I finished packing, Muster and I walked down to Dairy King for breakfast with the Tag Team, then headed back to the hostel to wrap up some last minute chores.
While I cleaned up the room, Muster headed to the Post Office to mail some currently unneeded items to ourselves several miles up the trail. When she returned it was around 10:30, and the storm clouds were rolling in. Joining Muster were four of the Diva girls (Rocket, Storm, Grommet, and Egg) all of whom were just as thrilled to hike out as I was. It took about 25 minutes between the six of us to decide to take another day off.
We spent the day actually doing much of nothing (since zero days are always crammed with doing chores and no free time). We hung at the coffee house, the library, and ate lunch at a place called Fatty's that served vegan burgers (contradictory but strangely satisfying).
In the evening we discovered the one and only local bar (Dots) was open and the six of us decided it was time for beer. When we walked in it became obvious that every other hiker in Damascus had the same thought. We spent the evening mostly with each other, but did our fair share of fraternizing with other hikers. After an all bar solute to Pond Flats which "had no pond and was definitely not fuckin' flat", Egg did a little dance, we spread a little love, and we got down for the night. By 10:30 Muster and I were back in the hostel and I was downing a bag of Cheeto’s Cheese Puffs (definitely not vegan) and were sleeping by 11:00pm.
Now that's what I call a day off :)
Rain.
Today’s Hike:
Damascus, VA – 0.0 miles
When I woke up this morning there wasn't a single part of me that felt like hiking today which was kind of unusual; I've always been ready to hike after a zero day. So, I gave myself a pep talk, and slowly crawled out of my sleeping bag. I got dressed, packed my pack, and got ready to head out. After I finished packing, Muster and I walked down to Dairy King for breakfast with the Tag Team, then headed back to the hostel to wrap up some last minute chores.
While I cleaned up the room, Muster headed to the Post Office to mail some currently unneeded items to ourselves several miles up the trail. When she returned it was around 10:30, and the storm clouds were rolling in. Joining Muster were four of the Diva girls (Rocket, Storm, Grommet, and Egg) all of whom were just as thrilled to hike out as I was. It took about 25 minutes between the six of us to decide to take another day off.
We spent the day actually doing much of nothing (since zero days are always crammed with doing chores and no free time). We hung at the coffee house, the library, and ate lunch at a place called Fatty's that served vegan burgers (contradictory but strangely satisfying).
In the evening we discovered the one and only local bar (Dots) was open and the six of us decided it was time for beer. When we walked in it became obvious that every other hiker in Damascus had the same thought. We spent the evening mostly with each other, but did our fair share of fraternizing with other hikers. After an all bar solute to Pond Flats which "had no pond and was definitely not fuckin' flat", Egg did a little dance, we spread a little love, and we got down for the night. By 10:30 Muster and I were back in the hostel and I was downing a bag of Cheeto’s Cheese Puffs (definitely not vegan) and were sleeping by 11:00pm.
Now that's what I call a day off :)
Monday, April 20, 2009
Day 50
Earlier this week the Tag Team, Muster, and myself stopped by Vandeventer Shelter for a quick snack break and some vitamin I. As we all started putting our packs back on, Tagless points to the hose of his platypus that had gotten caught under his shoulder strap, and says with a grin "look, trail stress." I burst out laughing, and thought aloud "Trail stress. What a great term!"
Although I believe that all stress in life is self-provoked there are definitely a few things that occur throughout our day out here that could easily be termed "trail stress". With the help of the Tag Team and the Packadivas, I have compiled an initial short list of trail stresses.
1. Getting your platypus hose caught under your shoulder strap.
2. Stepping in human poop and having to quarantine your Croc.
3. Trying to make it out of your sleeping bag and away from the shelter without farting.
4. Bird shit on your sleeping tent.
5. Snack residue on your trekking poles.
6. Finding a place to hide and pee before you go in your pants.
7. Getting your feet caught up in a stick while hiking.
8. Tripping over tree roots and rolling over rocks.
9. Clanking your trekking poles onto rocks or stumps and losing your momentum.
Ah..... but what can I say? It's all in a hard days work! :)
Although I believe that all stress in life is self-provoked there are definitely a few things that occur throughout our day out here that could easily be termed "trail stress". With the help of the Tag Team and the Packadivas, I have compiled an initial short list of trail stresses.
1. Getting your platypus hose caught under your shoulder strap.
2. Stepping in human poop and having to quarantine your Croc.
3. Trying to make it out of your sleeping bag and away from the shelter without farting.
4. Bird shit on your sleeping tent.
5. Snack residue on your trekking poles.
6. Finding a place to hide and pee before you go in your pants.
7. Getting your feet caught up in a stick while hiking.
8. Tripping over tree roots and rolling over rocks.
9. Clanking your trekking poles onto rocks or stumps and losing your momentum.
Ah..... but what can I say? It's all in a hard days work! :)
Sunday, April 19, 2009
Day 49
Weather:
Rain
Today's Hike:
Abington Gap Shelter to Damscus, VA - 10.2 miles
Muster and I woke up early this morning. It's a town day, and town days always have a way of nudging me out of me sleeping bag earlier then usual. It helped that it was about to rain and we wanted to pack up things and get going before we got dumped on. We were on the trail by 7:40am. After about 45 minutes of walking, Muster stops and begins to back up. I was behind her and from my perspective it looked as if she was looking at the ground, so I'm looking for a snake. To my surprise I see a bear cub (maybe about a year or two old) leap across the trail about 50 yards ahead of us.
"Holy crap! Thats a baby bear!" Muster exclaimed to me. "Yep -- where's mama?" I responded. We both stood and did a 360 of the area and didn't see anything. We continued forward, rather loudly and continued to glance around, still not seeing mama. After a few minutes it was safe to assume she was ahead, and we continued trudging toward Damascus.
So that’s it. On April 19th, at 8:20am in the state of Tennessee I saw my first bear along the AT.
We made it into Damascus by noon. I can't believe...such a huge milestone today!
Rain
Today's Hike:
Abington Gap Shelter to Damscus, VA - 10.2 miles
Muster and I woke up early this morning. It's a town day, and town days always have a way of nudging me out of me sleeping bag earlier then usual. It helped that it was about to rain and we wanted to pack up things and get going before we got dumped on. We were on the trail by 7:40am. After about 45 minutes of walking, Muster stops and begins to back up. I was behind her and from my perspective it looked as if she was looking at the ground, so I'm looking for a snake. To my surprise I see a bear cub (maybe about a year or two old) leap across the trail about 50 yards ahead of us.
"Holy crap! Thats a baby bear!" Muster exclaimed to me. "Yep -- where's mama?" I responded. We both stood and did a 360 of the area and didn't see anything. We continued forward, rather loudly and continued to glance around, still not seeing mama. After a few minutes it was safe to assume she was ahead, and we continued trudging toward Damascus.
So that’s it. On April 19th, at 8:20am in the state of Tennessee I saw my first bear along the AT.
We made it into Damascus by noon. I can't believe...such a huge milestone today!
Saturday, April 18, 2009
Day 48
Weather:
Sunny, no rain.
Today's Hike:
Iron Mtn. Shelter to Abington Gap Shelter - 15.9 miles
Camping with the Packadivas and the Tag-Team again tonight :)
Sunny, no rain.
Today's Hike:
Iron Mtn. Shelter to Abington Gap Shelter - 15.9 miles
Camping with the Packadivas and the Tag-Team again tonight :)
Friday, April 17, 2009
Day 47
Weather:
Sunny, no rain.
Today's Hike:
Camping to Iron Mountain Shelter - 16.4 miles
Camping with Packadivas and the Tag Team :)
Sunny, no rain.
Today's Hike:
Camping to Iron Mountain Shelter - 16.4 miles
Camping with Packadivas and the Tag Team :)
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Day 46
Weather:
Sunny, no rain.
Today's Hike:
Hardcore Cascades to Camping - 16.5 miles
Camping alone tonight.
Sunny, no rain.
Today's Hike:
Hardcore Cascades to Camping - 16.5 miles
Camping alone tonight.
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Day 45
Weather:
Overcast.
Today’s Hike:
Mountain Harbour B&B to Hardcore Cascades -16.0 miles
It felt great to be back on the trail today. I was getting more then restless by mid afternoon yesterday. Even the overcast grey skies couldn't dampin' my hiking spirits. Looking forward to a good night sleep in my tent and a great sunny day tomorrow.
Muster just burned a whole on the leg of her pants. Of course it's my fault since she leaned her leg toward the stove to let me up. She says I have weird karma that is somehow directed at her. I'm not an expert in karma, but I'm pretty sure whatever you put out into the world can only come back to you; not to someone else. Please let me know if there is a projection tenet in the karma rules somewhere.
P.S. She just threatened to burn a whole in my favorite Mont Bell jacket.....karma, I'm waiting for your retribution.
Overcast.
Today’s Hike:
Mountain Harbour B&B to Hardcore Cascades -16.0 miles
It felt great to be back on the trail today. I was getting more then restless by mid afternoon yesterday. Even the overcast grey skies couldn't dampin' my hiking spirits. Looking forward to a good night sleep in my tent and a great sunny day tomorrow.
Muster just burned a whole on the leg of her pants. Of course it's my fault since she leaned her leg toward the stove to let me up. She says I have weird karma that is somehow directed at her. I'm not an expert in karma, but I'm pretty sure whatever you put out into the world can only come back to you; not to someone else. Please let me know if there is a projection tenet in the karma rules somewhere.
P.S. She just threatened to burn a whole in my favorite Mont Bell jacket.....karma, I'm waiting for your retribution.
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Day 44
Weather:
Rain.
Today’s Hike:
Mountain Harbour B&B – 0.0 miles
The weather forecast called for thunderstorms all day today and spotty thunderstorms for the rest of the week. So, Muster and I decided to hang here for a day and head out for Damascus, VA in the morning. Unfortunately, weather people lie. It's noon and the sun is shinning. I should be hiking. I'm a little perturbed. I guess it's time to move from practicing acceptance to practicing embracement. It seems easy and logical now; the idea of completely embracing whatever weather comes my way, but yesterday was such a spirit breaker. I look forward to the summer when the weather is warmer, rain is predictable, and the chances to dry out become more frequent. In the mean time it will be practice, practice, practice.
Rain.
Today’s Hike:
Mountain Harbour B&B – 0.0 miles
The weather forecast called for thunderstorms all day today and spotty thunderstorms for the rest of the week. So, Muster and I decided to hang here for a day and head out for Damascus, VA in the morning. Unfortunately, weather people lie. It's noon and the sun is shinning. I should be hiking. I'm a little perturbed. I guess it's time to move from practicing acceptance to practicing embracement. It seems easy and logical now; the idea of completely embracing whatever weather comes my way, but yesterday was such a spirit breaker. I look forward to the summer when the weather is warmer, rain is predictable, and the chances to dry out become more frequent. In the mean time it will be practice, practice, practice.
Monday, April 13, 2009
Day 43
Weather:
High winds and rain
Today’s Hike:
Over Mountain Shelter to Mountain Harbor B&B - 9.5 miles
Today was insane. There really are no other words to describe it.
The rain started somewhere around 4am. By 5am the wind had picked up and the sides of tents were blowing inward. By 6:30am we were both awake and decided it was time to get off the mountain. We were on the trail by 7:20am.
As I climbed up the side trail to get back onto the AT, the wind was getting stronger. Within an 8th of a mile the wind was blowing so hard that my pack cover had blown off and hiking upright was not possible. I thought to myself that we wouldn’t be exposed for lond, and soon I would be under tree cover to help block the wind. About a mile into the trail we reached some flat ground and found ourselves under the safety of trees which was blocking the wind. Relief. However, my relief was temporary. After about a hundred yards of hiking in comfort (I use this term loosely)we reached Little Hump Mountain, and the treacherous 3 mile hike across an open bald began. The wind was insane; way beyond anything I had hiked through yet. Twice I was lifted up and thrown at least 10 feet of the trail. I was being knocked down to my knees. At some point I thought I could just crawl. Nope, that was also impossible also.
After about 2 miles of this I started thinking to myself that this was insane. What in the heck was I doing out here? What sane person is out in something like this? Even the weather people who report on hurricanes find shelter in this kind of wind. We were nuts. Needless to say I had had enough of being tossed around like a rag doll. In other words, I had surpassed being mortified by the weather and was just plan pissed. I dug my trekking poles into the ground and bolted. I was still being tossed around like a rag doll, but now I was a rag doll on a mission. I passed Muster, and gave her a quick glance. I was rather pissed at her since she decided to fend for herself and leave me behind in such arduous conditions. Great teamwork. She pointed to her rain pants that were ripped up the inner seam from the windstorm. I continued forward. By 10:30am we were back in the safety of the forest. Relief again. It would be all down hill from there.
We reached Mountain Harbour B&B just after noon. I showered, ate, and chilled out for the rest of the day. The Packadivas and the Tag Team soon joined us around 4pm. We ate pizzas, drank Fat Tire beer, and watched movies for the rest of the evening.
High winds and rain
Today’s Hike:
Over Mountain Shelter to Mountain Harbor B&B - 9.5 miles
Today was insane. There really are no other words to describe it.
The rain started somewhere around 4am. By 5am the wind had picked up and the sides of tents were blowing inward. By 6:30am we were both awake and decided it was time to get off the mountain. We were on the trail by 7:20am.
As I climbed up the side trail to get back onto the AT, the wind was getting stronger. Within an 8th of a mile the wind was blowing so hard that my pack cover had blown off and hiking upright was not possible. I thought to myself that we wouldn’t be exposed for lond, and soon I would be under tree cover to help block the wind. About a mile into the trail we reached some flat ground and found ourselves under the safety of trees which was blocking the wind. Relief. However, my relief was temporary. After about a hundred yards of hiking in comfort (I use this term loosely)we reached Little Hump Mountain, and the treacherous 3 mile hike across an open bald began. The wind was insane; way beyond anything I had hiked through yet. Twice I was lifted up and thrown at least 10 feet of the trail. I was being knocked down to my knees. At some point I thought I could just crawl. Nope, that was also impossible also.
After about 2 miles of this I started thinking to myself that this was insane. What in the heck was I doing out here? What sane person is out in something like this? Even the weather people who report on hurricanes find shelter in this kind of wind. We were nuts. Needless to say I had had enough of being tossed around like a rag doll. In other words, I had surpassed being mortified by the weather and was just plan pissed. I dug my trekking poles into the ground and bolted. I was still being tossed around like a rag doll, but now I was a rag doll on a mission. I passed Muster, and gave her a quick glance. I was rather pissed at her since she decided to fend for herself and leave me behind in such arduous conditions. Great teamwork. She pointed to her rain pants that were ripped up the inner seam from the windstorm. I continued forward. By 10:30am we were back in the safety of the forest. Relief again. It would be all down hill from there.
We reached Mountain Harbour B&B just after noon. I showered, ate, and chilled out for the rest of the day. The Packadivas and the Tag Team soon joined us around 4pm. We ate pizzas, drank Fat Tire beer, and watched movies for the rest of the evening.
Sunday, April 12, 2009
Saturday, April 11, 2009
Day 41
Saturday, April 11, 2009
Day 41
Weather:
Partly cloudy, no rain.
Today’s Hike:
Deep Gap to Greasy Gap - 12.2 miles
Day 41
Weather:
Partly cloudy, no rain.
Today’s Hike:
Deep Gap to Greasy Gap - 12.2 miles
Friday, April 10, 2009
Day 40
Friday, April 10, 2009
Day 40
Weather:
Isolate thunderstorms
Today’s Hike:
River Rd. To Deep Gap - 12.1 miles
We woke up this morning to a weather report calling for t- storms and tornado warnings. My Aunt threatened to take us up to Shenandoah National Park where the weather was better. "You are my fathers sister" I told her with a laugh. "He would be proud."
An hour later we were standing back at Uncle Johnny's, and we began hiking out into our first t-storm of the season. The storm quickly turned to a drizzle and was completely done by noon. The rest of the day was gorgeous until 6pm when the next wave of t-storms passed through. By this time we were laying in our tent, counting the time between the lightening and the thunder. The closest was 2 miles. By 8:30pm we were sleeping.
Day 40
Weather:
Isolate thunderstorms
Today’s Hike:
River Rd. To Deep Gap - 12.1 miles
We woke up this morning to a weather report calling for t- storms and tornado warnings. My Aunt threatened to take us up to Shenandoah National Park where the weather was better. "You are my fathers sister" I told her with a laugh. "He would be proud."
An hour later we were standing back at Uncle Johnny's, and we began hiking out into our first t-storm of the season. The storm quickly turned to a drizzle and was completely done by noon. The rest of the day was gorgeous until 6pm when the next wave of t-storms passed through. By this time we were laying in our tent, counting the time between the lightening and the thunder. The closest was 2 miles. By 8:30pm we were sleeping.
Thursday, April 9, 2009
Day 38 - Day 39
4/8/09 Wednesday - 4/9/09 Thursday
Uncle Johnny's Hostel/Aunt Vonzee's House
In the morning we ate a good breakfast, and resupplied at the local Dollar General (we love Dollar General). Then we went back to Johnny's and made an unplanned purchase of new backpacks. In short our current bags sucked.
At 2pm my aunt came and picked us up and wisked us off to her house (AKA the best B&B ever). For two days we ate home cooked meals, drank good wine, and watched chick flicks. I also got to spend time with my aunt, see my uncle Mike for the first time in ten years (minimum), and see my cousin Tiffany. It was fabulous!
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Day 37
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Day 37
Weather:
Sunny and cold. No rain.
Today's Hike:
Bald Mountain Shelter to River Rd./Uncle Johnny’s Hostel - 17.0 miles
The snowstorm that started late yesterday afternoon continued throughout the night. I froze my butt off, and didn't sleep at all. At 6:45am I started packing up my stuff when Muster turned over and looked at me, "I want off this friggin' mountain" I told her. We were packed and ready within an hour.
When I peered out of the cubby Muster and I had mad ourselves in the shelter we were greeted with snow, lots and lots of snow. The platform inside the shelter had a few inches, but the ground outside was covered in at least 1-2 feet of snow. When I stepped out of the shelter with my pack on I realized that the trail was gone, it was completely covered in snow. Crap, this is not going to be easy, I thought to myself. Muster and I were the first ones out that morning which meant we had to find the trail & divot our way out. With Muster in the lead we made our way up & down the trail, and through snowdrifts that were up to my knees. The snow started again around 10am and continued throughout the day. By 5:30pm we made our way down the mountain and stepped right into Uncle Johnny's Hostel. It may not be a Holiday Inn Express, but its not a snow covered mountain either ☺
Day 37
Weather:
Sunny and cold. No rain.
Today's Hike:
Bald Mountain Shelter to River Rd./Uncle Johnny’s Hostel - 17.0 miles
The snowstorm that started late yesterday afternoon continued throughout the night. I froze my butt off, and didn't sleep at all. At 6:45am I started packing up my stuff when Muster turned over and looked at me, "I want off this friggin' mountain" I told her. We were packed and ready within an hour.
When I peered out of the cubby Muster and I had mad ourselves in the shelter we were greeted with snow, lots and lots of snow. The platform inside the shelter had a few inches, but the ground outside was covered in at least 1-2 feet of snow. When I stepped out of the shelter with my pack on I realized that the trail was gone, it was completely covered in snow. Crap, this is not going to be easy, I thought to myself. Muster and I were the first ones out that morning which meant we had to find the trail & divot our way out. With Muster in the lead we made our way up & down the trail, and through snowdrifts that were up to my knees. The snow started again around 10am and continued throughout the day. By 5:30pm we made our way down the mountain and stepped right into Uncle Johnny's Hostel. It may not be a Holiday Inn Express, but its not a snow covered mountain either ☺
Monday, April 6, 2009
Day 36
Monday April 6, 2009
Day 36
Weather:
Rain in the morning. Afternoon – evening snow storm.
Today’s Hike:
Hogback Ridge Shelter to Bald Mtn. Shelter - 10.6 miles
The forecast for Monday & Tuesday called for rain, so when the rain began to sputter against the fly of the tent at 3am it wasn't too much of a surprise. The rain stopped by the morning, providing a chance to get packed up without getting soaked. The temperature dropped overnight, and the sky looked like rain, just as predicted. So I dressed appropriately, and started the northward journey to Maine at 9:25am.
About an hour after taking off, we crossed under a highway leading to nowhere. When we reached the other side I could hear the rain hitting the unleaved tree branches above, and quickly realized that the usual wet rain was now freezing rain. “Crap, it's gonna snow”, I thought aload. As we continued northward and upward the freezing rain transitioned into a snowstorm. We were at least 5.5 miles (2.5 hours) from the next shelter. We had no choice but to make it there. If we were to stay where we were we chanced getting snowed into our tent. Bad situation. If we continued to the shelter we would have more protection from the weather, and would be that much closer to making it to Erwin, TN. So onward and upward we went. The wind and snow fell harder and we pressed harder. After about an hour of hiking we came to a bald. Crap. Hugh winds, snow, and an open mountaintop. It's going to be a bad version of hiking over Max Patch. And I was right, except here the wind was worse. Occasionally I could look forward and would catch glimpses of Muster hanging onto post markers so that she wouldn't fall over. Most of the time I was faced down and turned against the wind so that the snow wouldn't cut into by eyes, and I to was trying not to let the wind knock me over. It was awful. I wanted off the bald. After trekking in open for about 30 minutes we made it back into the forest and a little relief set in. At least underneath the bare trees there was some protection from the wind. However, this brought a new challenge. The entire ground was covered in snow, except for the trail which was completely untouched, muddy, and slick. I was able to avoid the first few slippery spots by watching Muster slip and slide (but never falling). I missed a spot however and went crashing down on my left side. Crap, now I'm covered in snow and mud. Luckily we arrived at the shelter shortly there after. Luckier yet that this is
the nicest shelter we've seen since Walnut shelter 65 miles back.
We've tied a tent fly across the front of the bottom platform to help block the wind and drifting snow, and we've tied the tent itself width wise cutting the bottom platform in half and boxing ourselves in. I also ate a hot bowl of soup and poured boiling water into my Nalgene bottle and stuck it in my sleeping bag to help keep warm. Hope that the storm passes overnight. Regardless, it's 17 miles to Erwin where there's a Holiday Inn Express and a hot tub. I plan on being there tomorrow night.
Day 36
Weather:
Rain in the morning. Afternoon – evening snow storm.
Today’s Hike:
Hogback Ridge Shelter to Bald Mtn. Shelter - 10.6 miles
The forecast for Monday & Tuesday called for rain, so when the rain began to sputter against the fly of the tent at 3am it wasn't too much of a surprise. The rain stopped by the morning, providing a chance to get packed up without getting soaked. The temperature dropped overnight, and the sky looked like rain, just as predicted. So I dressed appropriately, and started the northward journey to Maine at 9:25am.
About an hour after taking off, we crossed under a highway leading to nowhere. When we reached the other side I could hear the rain hitting the unleaved tree branches above, and quickly realized that the usual wet rain was now freezing rain. “Crap, it's gonna snow”, I thought aload. As we continued northward and upward the freezing rain transitioned into a snowstorm. We were at least 5.5 miles (2.5 hours) from the next shelter. We had no choice but to make it there. If we were to stay where we were we chanced getting snowed into our tent. Bad situation. If we continued to the shelter we would have more protection from the weather, and would be that much closer to making it to Erwin, TN. So onward and upward we went. The wind and snow fell harder and we pressed harder. After about an hour of hiking we came to a bald. Crap. Hugh winds, snow, and an open mountaintop. It's going to be a bad version of hiking over Max Patch. And I was right, except here the wind was worse. Occasionally I could look forward and would catch glimpses of Muster hanging onto post markers so that she wouldn't fall over. Most of the time I was faced down and turned against the wind so that the snow wouldn't cut into by eyes, and I to was trying not to let the wind knock me over. It was awful. I wanted off the bald. After trekking in open for about 30 minutes we made it back into the forest and a little relief set in. At least underneath the bare trees there was some protection from the wind. However, this brought a new challenge. The entire ground was covered in snow, except for the trail which was completely untouched, muddy, and slick. I was able to avoid the first few slippery spots by watching Muster slip and slide (but never falling). I missed a spot however and went crashing down on my left side. Crap, now I'm covered in snow and mud. Luckily we arrived at the shelter shortly there after. Luckier yet that this is
the nicest shelter we've seen since Walnut shelter 65 miles back.
We've tied a tent fly across the front of the bottom platform to help block the wind and drifting snow, and we've tied the tent itself width wise cutting the bottom platform in half and boxing ourselves in. I also ate a hot bowl of soup and poured boiling water into my Nalgene bottle and stuck it in my sleeping bag to help keep warm. Hope that the storm passes overnight. Regardless, it's 17 miles to Erwin where there's a Holiday Inn Express and a hot tub. I plan on being there tomorrow night.
Sunday, April 5, 2009
Day 35
Sunday April 5, 2009
Day 35
Weather:
Evening rain
Today’s Hike:
Jerry’s Cabin Shelter to Hogback Ridge - 14.8 miles
Day 35
Weather:
Evening rain
Today’s Hike:
Jerry’s Cabin Shelter to Hogback Ridge - 14.8 miles
Saturday, April 4, 2009
Day 34
Saturday, April 4, 2009
Day 34
Weather:
Sunny and warm. No rain.
Today’s Hike:
Spring Mtn. Shelter to Jerry’s Cabin Shelter - 15.4 miles
After a windy, chilly evening Muster and I were back on the trail by 8:25 am this morning. The quicker I got moving, the quicker I would warm up.
About 4 miles after leaving Spring Shelter we came to a parking lot. According to the AT Companion there was a gas station 1.7 miles east of the trail. The thought of a cold Coke was quite tempting. After a short debate we decided not to walk the extra miles given we already had 15.4 miles mapped out for the day. So, we pushed on until we hit a sign about 50 yards ahead of our previous debate. The sign read "Trail Magic" And provided directions to a location 350 yards east where we would find cokes, juices, waffles, vegetarian chili, and an array of desserts. We looked at each other, "Lets do it", and we turned east.
When we reached the end of a steep driveway we saw some fellow thru-hikers coming down, and they informed us that it would be wonderful. We made our way up the driveway and were greeted by a beautiful log cabin and Heidi; a Golden Retriever/Poodle mix who wanted nothing more then to play fetch. A post on the top of the porch wore an AT sign, and the porch was lined with backpacks, trekking poles, and hiking boots lending assurance we were entering into a thru-hikers domain. Fal, a thru-hiker in 2000 quickly came out to greet us. After exchanging introductions and removing our packs and shoes we entered the cabin to find several other fellow thru-hikers, and Fals husband, Hercules, who also thru-hiked in 2000.
Hercules greeted us with a menu of drink options, chili's (vegetarian or meat), and a 10-day weather forecast. After requesting a Coke, we joined the rest of the hikers and were quickly served our first course, a giant Belgium waffle, and it was delicious! Our second course of vegetarian chili soon followed. As we both lapped up the last spoonfuls of the fantastic mixtures of diced zucchini, mixed beans, tomato's and other yummy veggies we were given a list of desert choices; gingerbread and baked apple upside-down cake with ice cream, apple crumb cake with ice cream, brownie sundae, or a fully loaded banana split. Decisions, decisions. We decided to share a brownie hot fudge sundae. Yummy!
A little over an hour later we gave many thanks to our gracious trail angels, and with overfull bellies we departed on our way.
The rest of the day was long and warm. I remained full until late that evening when we reached camp at 8:15pm.
Day 34
Weather:
Sunny and warm. No rain.
Today’s Hike:
Spring Mtn. Shelter to Jerry’s Cabin Shelter - 15.4 miles
After a windy, chilly evening Muster and I were back on the trail by 8:25 am this morning. The quicker I got moving, the quicker I would warm up.
About 4 miles after leaving Spring Shelter we came to a parking lot. According to the AT Companion there was a gas station 1.7 miles east of the trail. The thought of a cold Coke was quite tempting. After a short debate we decided not to walk the extra miles given we already had 15.4 miles mapped out for the day. So, we pushed on until we hit a sign about 50 yards ahead of our previous debate. The sign read "Trail Magic" And provided directions to a location 350 yards east where we would find cokes, juices, waffles, vegetarian chili, and an array of desserts. We looked at each other, "Lets do it", and we turned east.
When we reached the end of a steep driveway we saw some fellow thru-hikers coming down, and they informed us that it would be wonderful. We made our way up the driveway and were greeted by a beautiful log cabin and Heidi; a Golden Retriever/Poodle mix who wanted nothing more then to play fetch. A post on the top of the porch wore an AT sign, and the porch was lined with backpacks, trekking poles, and hiking boots lending assurance we were entering into a thru-hikers domain. Fal, a thru-hiker in 2000 quickly came out to greet us. After exchanging introductions and removing our packs and shoes we entered the cabin to find several other fellow thru-hikers, and Fals husband, Hercules, who also thru-hiked in 2000.
Hercules greeted us with a menu of drink options, chili's (vegetarian or meat), and a 10-day weather forecast. After requesting a Coke, we joined the rest of the hikers and were quickly served our first course, a giant Belgium waffle, and it was delicious! Our second course of vegetarian chili soon followed. As we both lapped up the last spoonfuls of the fantastic mixtures of diced zucchini, mixed beans, tomato's and other yummy veggies we were given a list of desert choices; gingerbread and baked apple upside-down cake with ice cream, apple crumb cake with ice cream, brownie sundae, or a fully loaded banana split. Decisions, decisions. We decided to share a brownie hot fudge sundae. Yummy!
A little over an hour later we gave many thanks to our gracious trail angels, and with overfull bellies we departed on our way.
The rest of the day was long and warm. I remained full until late that evening when we reached camp at 8:15pm.
Friday, April 3, 2009
Day 33
Friday, April 3, 2009
Day 33
Weather:
Overcast and windy. No rain.
Today’s Hike:
Hot Springs to Spring Mtn. Shelter- 11.0 miles
Thursday, April 2, 2009
Day 32
Weather:
Partly cloudy, no rain.
Today’s Hike:
Hot Springs, NC - 0.0 miles
Today I spent the day resting and preparing for the next 5-6 days of hiking. In my preparation for the week, I stopped by the local outfitter, Bluff Mountain. They had a scale, so Muster and I both weighed ourselves to see how much weight we've lost. Muster has lost 20 pounds and looks fantastic! I have lost.....6lbs. Are you kidding me? Six pounds? That's it? Muster attributes it to the fact that I always am about to eat something, am eating something, or have just finished eating something. Oh well, I still have 1800 miles to go…..hopefully I’ll lose another six pounds by Katadhin.
Partly cloudy, no rain.
Today’s Hike:
Hot Springs, NC - 0.0 miles
Today I spent the day resting and preparing for the next 5-6 days of hiking. In my preparation for the week, I stopped by the local outfitter, Bluff Mountain. They had a scale, so Muster and I both weighed ourselves to see how much weight we've lost. Muster has lost 20 pounds and looks fantastic! I have lost.....6lbs. Are you kidding me? Six pounds? That's it? Muster attributes it to the fact that I always am about to eat something, am eating something, or have just finished eating something. Oh well, I still have 1800 miles to go…..hopefully I’ll lose another six pounds by Katadhin.
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
Day 31
Weather:
Nice, no rain.
Today’s Hike:
Stream Campsite @ mile 257.2 to Hot Springs, NC – 15.0 miles
Last night as I tried to fall asleep Muster and I started talking about the trail, trail life and what hiking the trail teaches you. When you're out here, almost nothing is within your control. You can't control where the trail takes you, you can't control the weather, you can't control all the loud owls and other wildlife that scream throughout the night keeping you awake. The only thing you can control is your attitude. If you accept what is and just see what is presented to you for what it is then the days hike is a new challenge and nothing more. If you get mad at some aspect of it, your day is rotten. The same principle is applied to life in the "real world." I remember talking about acceptance of what is in life as it applied to the "real world" before coming out here. It's so easy to know and talk about acceptance and entirely other thing to actually practice it. Out here you don't have much of a choice but to practice acceptance. If you don't you won't enjoy the journey, and you won't gain anything from your experience. I think this is why so many people quit. They come out expecting a joyful walk in the woods. What you get is a new relationship with Mother Nature, with yourself, and with those that you choose to travel with.
After breakfast I packed up my pack and hiked 15 miles into the town of Hot Springs, NC. Muster and I are staying at Elmer's Sunnybank Inn, a Bed and Breakfast that caters to AT Hikers. The house is really neat - an old Victorian style home built in the late 1800's. They cook only vegetarian meals, and we had the pleasure of having a current AT thru-hiker, Tekla, who is trained as a culinary chef cook us the most amazing dinner.
Nice, no rain.
Today’s Hike:
Stream Campsite @ mile 257.2 to Hot Springs, NC – 15.0 miles
Last night as I tried to fall asleep Muster and I started talking about the trail, trail life and what hiking the trail teaches you. When you're out here, almost nothing is within your control. You can't control where the trail takes you, you can't control the weather, you can't control all the loud owls and other wildlife that scream throughout the night keeping you awake. The only thing you can control is your attitude. If you accept what is and just see what is presented to you for what it is then the days hike is a new challenge and nothing more. If you get mad at some aspect of it, your day is rotten. The same principle is applied to life in the "real world." I remember talking about acceptance of what is in life as it applied to the "real world" before coming out here. It's so easy to know and talk about acceptance and entirely other thing to actually practice it. Out here you don't have much of a choice but to practice acceptance. If you don't you won't enjoy the journey, and you won't gain anything from your experience. I think this is why so many people quit. They come out expecting a joyful walk in the woods. What you get is a new relationship with Mother Nature, with yourself, and with those that you choose to travel with.
After breakfast I packed up my pack and hiked 15 miles into the town of Hot Springs, NC. Muster and I are staying at Elmer's Sunnybank Inn, a Bed and Breakfast that caters to AT Hikers. The house is really neat - an old Victorian style home built in the late 1800's. They cook only vegetarian meals, and we had the pleasure of having a current AT thru-hiker, Tekla, who is trained as a culinary chef cook us the most amazing dinner.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)