03/31/12 - between High Rock and Sam's Gap - ≈316 miles
HUNGRY! And now out of food. Today was rough. Tough ups and downs, morale, hunger. But tomorrow is a new day with hopefully more food (and hopefully I won't poop my pants during the night). We stopped at the shelter for dinner. As we walk up, a group of older men and two teenagers are making pudding. "Hey guys, how ya doin?" I say. "Hey! We're making pudding. But you can't have any," says the boy. Parents say nothing. Nice to meet you too! But we did meet Chia Pet, thru-hiker who started on February 12. Real nice guy. Reminds me of Bill Murray.
***
Sunday, March 31, 2013
Saturday, March 30, 2013
Day 30
03/30/12 - Big Butt - 302.5 miles
300 miles, yeah! Today was a bit crazy. Thunderstorms while crossing Blackstack Cliffs. Wasn't expecting such a long exposed ridge line. After some lightning we scampered down the hill and set up a rain fly. We were going to wait it out but thought it might get worse. Prayed and moved back out in the rain. Off the ridge was a controlled burn taking place. Warmed my hands by one of the fires while it was still raining. Met up with Dr. TrailMix at the shelter. Ate some Ramen and talked a bit, then headed back out. Rain stopped and we climbed Big Butt (giant rock that looks like a butt crack). Big open grassy areas. Heard coyotes! So cool, but always a bit creepy. Now we are camped in another field with the rain pattering away. Hungry!
***
300 miles, yeah! Today was a bit crazy. Thunderstorms while crossing Blackstack Cliffs. Wasn't expecting such a long exposed ridge line. After some lightning we scampered down the hill and set up a rain fly. We were going to wait it out but thought it might get worse. Prayed and moved back out in the rain. Off the ridge was a controlled burn taking place. Warmed my hands by one of the fires while it was still raining. Met up with Dr. TrailMix at the shelter. Ate some Ramen and talked a bit, then headed back out. Rain stopped and we climbed Big Butt (giant rock that looks like a butt crack). Big open grassy areas. Heard coyotes! So cool, but always a bit creepy. Now we are camped in another field with the rain pattering away. Hungry!
***
Friday, March 29, 2013
Day 29
03/29/12 - past Log Cabin Drive - ≈291 miles
Woke up feeling good this morning. Hiked some miles and ran into Dr. TrailMix. Thought he would have long passed us by now. Caught him again at lunch. Salmon and tortillas. Mmm. Hiked on and experienced some amazing trail magic. At Allen Gap there was a sign saying to walk 300 yards to a house. Hercules and Fal (1999 thru-hikers) live there and serve hikers Belgian waffles, hot stew, ice cream and sodas. Super nice. Super delicious. They loved that we were Jewish. Really great people.
***
Woke up feeling good this morning. Hiked some miles and ran into Dr. TrailMix. Thought he would have long passed us by now. Caught him again at lunch. Salmon and tortillas. Mmm. Hiked on and experienced some amazing trail magic. At Allen Gap there was a sign saying to walk 300 yards to a house. Hercules and Fal (1999 thru-hikers) live there and serve hikers Belgian waffles, hot stew, ice cream and sodas. Super nice. Super delicious. They loved that we were Jewish. Really great people.
***
 |
| Home of Hercules & Fal |
Thursday, March 28, 2013
Day 28
03/28/12 - Pump Gap(ish) - ≈277 miles
Got to Hot Springs today around 3:30 or so. First real trail town. Ate at the Smoky Mountain Diner. Met Elmer, owner of the Sunnybank Inn, and toured the old 1840 Victorian house. So cool! Ice cream at Sweet Imaginations. Then back on the trail with a steep climb as the sun set. Pitched our tents in the dark. A beautiful evening. I'm already hungry and craving soda again.
***
Got to Hot Springs today around 3:30 or so. First real trail town. Ate at the Smoky Mountain Diner. Met Elmer, owner of the Sunnybank Inn, and toured the old 1840 Victorian house. So cool! Ice cream at Sweet Imaginations. Then back on the trail with a steep climb as the sun set. Pitched our tents in the dark. A beautiful evening. I'm already hungry and craving soda again.
***
Wednesday, March 27, 2013
Day 27
03/27/12 - between Walnut and Bluff Mountain - ≈262 miles
Nice breakfast at the resort lodge. Drove back to Max Patch where Dad hiked up to the top with us. Gorgeous. Probably one of my favorite views on the Trail so far. Said goodbye to my dad at the edge of the woods. Made me pretty sad, actually. But it was great being able to spend time with him. Now we are camped in a little clearing of a gap before Bluff Mountain. Gonna try to hit Hot Springs tomorrow. A chorus of frogs.
***
Nice breakfast at the resort lodge. Drove back to Max Patch where Dad hiked up to the top with us. Gorgeous. Probably one of my favorite views on the Trail so far. Said goodbye to my dad at the edge of the woods. Made me pretty sad, actually. But it was great being able to spend time with him. Now we are camped in a little clearing of a gap before Bluff Mountain. Gonna try to hit Hot Springs tomorrow. A chorus of frogs.
***
Tuesday, March 26, 2013
Day 26
03/26/12 - Max Patch [Waynesville, NC] - 253.3 miles
Hiked about 3 miles up to the road from our campsite. Dad was happy to be done hiking. The uphills were killing him. He took us into town, we stayed at a golf resort, did laundry, resupplied at Walmart, ate Mexican Food, then saw THE HUNGER GAMES. Ice cream and Lucky Charms after the movie. Such an awesome day. I am so thankful for my Dad.
***
Having been a fan of the books and greatly anticipating the film, there was a lot of knife throwing practice before and after seeing this movie.
Hiked about 3 miles up to the road from our campsite. Dad was happy to be done hiking. The uphills were killing him. He took us into town, we stayed at a golf resort, did laundry, resupplied at Walmart, ate Mexican Food, then saw THE HUNGER GAMES. Ice cream and Lucky Charms after the movie. Such an awesome day. I am so thankful for my Dad.
***
Having been a fan of the books and greatly anticipating the film, there was a lot of knife throwing practice before and after seeing this movie.
 |
| Hunger Games. |
Monday, March 25, 2013
Day 25
03/25/12 - before Brown Gap - ≈250 miles
Short mileage day today. Dad has some serious painful looking blisters from the uphills. Hopefully we will make it the 3 or so miles back to the car in the morning. Hopefully car will still be there. It's been great having dad here, though. Haven't pooped since Gatlinburg.
***
Short mileage day today. Dad has some serious painful looking blisters from the uphills. Hopefully we will make it the 3 or so miles back to the car in the morning. Hopefully car will still be there. It's been great having dad here, though. Haven't pooped since Gatlinburg.
***
Sunday, March 24, 2013
Day 24
03/24/12 - Painter Branch - 242.8 miles
We survived the Smokies! And now my dad is with us for a couple of days. Met him today at Standing Bear hostel. Hiked about 2 miles up in the rain. Not an easy intro hike to the AT. Beautiful campsite by a creek.
***
We survived the Smokies! And now my dad is with us for a couple of days. Met him today at Standing Bear hostel. Hiked about 2 miles up in the rain. Not an easy intro hike to the AT. Beautiful campsite by a creek.
***
Saturday, March 23, 2013
Day 23
03/23/12 - Cosby Knob Shelter - 230.1 miles
So tired today. I was ready for bed as soon as I woke up. Poured on us most of the day. Everything is soggy. Get to see dad soon!
***
So tired today. I was ready for bed as soon as I woke up. Poured on us most of the day. Everything is soggy. Get to see dad soon!
***
Friday, March 22, 2013
Day 22
03/22/12 - Peck's Corner Shelter - 217.2 miles
Breakfast at Dunkin' Donuts! Yum yum yum. Took the NOC shuttle back to the trailhead. Treated like celebrities again, but nice people. Shared the shuttle with Dr. Trailmix and listened to Herbie Hancock. Then we hiked with Dr. Trailmix a bit and talked with him at camp. Nice guy. Passed Charlie's Bunion! Finally got to the shelter and that same group of Boy Scouts was there! Overcrowded again. A lot of us are tenting. Anna and I are further back in the woods. Creepy owl is at it again tonight.
***
OK, so we were haunted by the Boy Scouts even after we took a day off... however, remember that father son trio I told you about? Well, when we parted ways a few days earlier, I immediately regretted not getting their contact information. They were so kind and encouraging to us and gave us lots of delicious hiker food that morning... and I knew we would probably never see them again because they were heading another direction. But while in Gatlinburg, I kept thinking about how cool it would be if we saw them. People were everywhere, though. So. Many. People. And after 24 hours of being in town I had accepted the fact that our paths wouldn't cross.
Literally 10 minutes before we had to get on our shuttle, they walk right into the lobby of the NOC. I was in disbelief. And so happy! We exchanged info and talked for a few minutes, and I shared with them how thankful I was for our first meeting and for this second reunion. And just before shaking hands and parting one final time, the father smiles and says, "Persevere, guys."
I will never forget that.
You should probably follow them on twitter.
Breakfast at Dunkin' Donuts! Yum yum yum. Took the NOC shuttle back to the trailhead. Treated like celebrities again, but nice people. Shared the shuttle with Dr. Trailmix and listened to Herbie Hancock. Then we hiked with Dr. Trailmix a bit and talked with him at camp. Nice guy. Passed Charlie's Bunion! Finally got to the shelter and that same group of Boy Scouts was there! Overcrowded again. A lot of us are tenting. Anna and I are further back in the woods. Creepy owl is at it again tonight.
***
OK, so we were haunted by the Boy Scouts even after we took a day off... however, remember that father son trio I told you about? Well, when we parted ways a few days earlier, I immediately regretted not getting their contact information. They were so kind and encouraging to us and gave us lots of delicious hiker food that morning... and I knew we would probably never see them again because they were heading another direction. But while in Gatlinburg, I kept thinking about how cool it would be if we saw them. People were everywhere, though. So. Many. People. And after 24 hours of being in town I had accepted the fact that our paths wouldn't cross.
Literally 10 minutes before we had to get on our shuttle, they walk right into the lobby of the NOC. I was in disbelief. And so happy! We exchanged info and talked for a few minutes, and I shared with them how thankful I was for our first meeting and for this second reunion. And just before shaking hands and parting one final time, the father smiles and says, "Persevere, guys."
I will never forget that.
 |
| The Doss family. |
You should probably follow them on twitter.
Thursday, March 21, 2013
Day 21
03/21/12 - Newfound Gap [Gatlinburg] - 206.8
Nero! Hitchhiked into town (first time ever) thanks to a former NOBO '99/SOBO '01 who stopped to pick us up. Staying in the Grand Prix Motel. Awesome. Israeli flag flying and nice people and hiker discount! Went to KFC, NOC, Walgreens, Smoky Mountain Brewery and Baskin Robins! Yum yum nom nom. Going into town is fun, but kinda overwhelming, too.
***
Nero! Hitchhiked into town (first time ever) thanks to a former NOBO '99/SOBO '01 who stopped to pick us up. Staying in the Grand Prix Motel. Awesome. Israeli flag flying and nice people and hiker discount! Went to KFC, NOC, Walgreens, Smoky Mountain Brewery and Baskin Robins! Yum yum nom nom. Going into town is fun, but kinda overwhelming, too.
***
 |
| Just what we needed... a Ripley's museum. |
Wednesday, March 20, 2013
Day 20
03/20/12 - Mount Collins Shelter - 202.3 miles
Climbed our first "mount" [Mount Love], hit 200 miles, AND climbed Clingman's Dome, the highest point on the AT! 1 year and a half ago, Anna and I were at Clingman's and said the next time we were here, we would be thru-hiking. And here we are! Tonight we are staying in the shelter with a bunch of Boy Scouts. Hailed and thunder stormed earlier. Anna and I drew pictures of each other. Mine is terrible. Anna's made me look exactly like Jeff Goldblum (see page 31 in the guidebook).
***
Click here for a more detailed account of our Boy Scout encounters.
Climbed our first "mount" [Mount Love], hit 200 miles, AND climbed Clingman's Dome, the highest point on the AT! 1 year and a half ago, Anna and I were at Clingman's and said the next time we were here, we would be thru-hiking. And here we are! Tonight we are staying in the shelter with a bunch of Boy Scouts. Hailed and thunder stormed earlier. Anna and I drew pictures of each other. Mine is terrible. Anna's made me look exactly like Jeff Goldblum (see page 31 in the guidebook).
***
Click here for a more detailed account of our Boy Scout encounters.
 |
| I'm no artist, but Anna's specialty is Goldblum. |
Tuesday, March 19, 2013
Day 19
03/19/12 - Silers Bald Shelter - 194.3 miles
Tenting again, along with Chief. Large group of people at the shelter. We were debating a night/early morning hike to Clingman's Dome for sunrise, but I think we may just stay put 'til morning. One of boyscout leaders offered us food in the morning! ::KitFox says "hi!":: Also risking a night without my rain fly. Could be a disaster. Just saw our first deer as we were hanging our bear bags. It was not afraid of us at all! No bears yet...
***
The "boyscout leader" who offered us food, was actually not a boyscout leader, but a father out on a trip with his two sons. I will share more about them in a few days... when we experienced, what I believe, was a divine second meeting.
Tenting again, along with Chief. Large group of people at the shelter. We were debating a night/early morning hike to Clingman's Dome for sunrise, but I think we may just stay put 'til morning. One of boyscout leaders offered us food in the morning! ::KitFox says "hi!":: Also risking a night without my rain fly. Could be a disaster. Just saw our first deer as we were hanging our bear bags. It was not afraid of us at all! No bears yet...
***
The "boyscout leader" who offered us food, was actually not a boyscout leader, but a father out on a trip with his two sons. I will share more about them in a few days... when we experienced, what I believe, was a divine second meeting.
Monday, March 18, 2013
Day 18
03/18/12 - Russel Field Shelter - 179.6 miles
Welcome to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Crossed over Fontana Dam in high spirits and into the park. Then the bugs came. So many gnats, flies, and little tiny grasshoppers. EVERYWHERE. Instead of snow, we got bugs. Excited to be here though. Tenting tonight. Anna is scared. I might be scared if I see a bear... but right now I'm not sure if they exist anymore. We shall see. Quote of the day was this morning when Anna greeted me outside my tent, "Well, hello Pinoccio!" Because the clothes I had on reminded her of Pinoccio. But you can imagine what everybody else thought when they heard this.
***
Welcome to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Crossed over Fontana Dam in high spirits and into the park. Then the bugs came. So many gnats, flies, and little tiny grasshoppers. EVERYWHERE. Instead of snow, we got bugs. Excited to be here though. Tenting tonight. Anna is scared. I might be scared if I see a bear... but right now I'm not sure if they exist anymore. We shall see. Quote of the day was this morning when Anna greeted me outside my tent, "Well, hello Pinoccio!" Because the clothes I had on reminded her of Pinoccio. But you can imagine what everybody else thought when they heard this.
***
Sunday, March 17, 2013
Day 17
03/17/12 - Fontana Dam Shelter - 165.8 miles
Again, I was struggling today. It was an easier terrain day, but for some reason I could have taken a nap at any given point. But now we are at the gateway of the Smokies! Tomorrow we cross Fontana Dam and are in! Found out that Sunshine and Rocky are getting off the trail for a week to rest. I hope they make it back. They started from Springer the same day as us. Right now it's a beautiful evening looking out over Fontana Lake with the mountains in the background.
***
The next time we would see Rocky and Sunshine would be for one day in Harper's Ferry, WV.
Again, I was struggling today. It was an easier terrain day, but for some reason I could have taken a nap at any given point. But now we are at the gateway of the Smokies! Tomorrow we cross Fontana Dam and are in! Found out that Sunshine and Rocky are getting off the trail for a week to rest. I hope they make it back. They started from Springer the same day as us. Right now it's a beautiful evening looking out over Fontana Lake with the mountains in the background.
***
The next time we would see Rocky and Sunshine would be for one day in Harper's Ferry, WV.
Saturday, March 16, 2013
Day 16
03/16/12 - Hogback Gap - 155.1 miles
This marks our sixth day in a row of trail magic. Coming down into Stecoah Gap about midway through our day, Anna and I were talking about how we both could go for a soda of some kind. A few minutes later... boom ...a box of colas is sitting on the trail with a bag of chocolate MoonPies to go along! We were so excited! We went down to the picnic tables where two other thru-hikers were finishing up and were about to enjoy when a man pulls up in his minivan. "You guys going all the way?" He was a thru-hiker in '04, and his name was Quest. He went back to the van and brought out DIET DR. PEPPER, Mountain Dew, Pepsi, peanuts, Snickers, Oreos and chocolate chip cookies! Unbelievable. Very nice guy. After that we headed on and began to race a thunderstorm. Praying the whole way and trusting that God is protecting us. We made it through the lightning. Thank you, Lord. Anna read Psalm 45 before bed.
***
Throughout the entire thru-hike, the one thing that seriously had me concerned for our safety was walking through these kinds of storms. Bears, ticks, snakes, people... you cannot fend off a storm.
This marks our sixth day in a row of trail magic. Coming down into Stecoah Gap about midway through our day, Anna and I were talking about how we both could go for a soda of some kind. A few minutes later... boom ...a box of colas is sitting on the trail with a bag of chocolate MoonPies to go along! We were so excited! We went down to the picnic tables where two other thru-hikers were finishing up and were about to enjoy when a man pulls up in his minivan. "You guys going all the way?" He was a thru-hiker in '04, and his name was Quest. He went back to the van and brought out DIET DR. PEPPER, Mountain Dew, Pepsi, peanuts, Snickers, Oreos and chocolate chip cookies! Unbelievable. Very nice guy. After that we headed on and began to race a thunderstorm. Praying the whole way and trusting that God is protecting us. We made it through the lightning. Thank you, Lord. Anna read Psalm 45 before bed.
***
Throughout the entire thru-hike, the one thing that seriously had me concerned for our safety was walking through these kinds of storms. Bears, ticks, snakes, people... you cannot fend off a storm.
 |
| The only time we received Diet Dr. Pepper trail magic |
Friday, March 15, 2013
Day 15
03/15/12 - Sassafrass Gap Shelter - 144 miles
Two years six months with the most wonderful lady in the world. I am so incredibly thankful for her and for us being out here together. Such an epic adventure to share together side by side.
***
Two years six months with the most wonderful lady in the world. I am so incredibly thankful for her and for us being out here together. Such an epic adventure to share together side by side.
***
Thursday, March 14, 2013
Day 14
03/14/12 - Nantahala Outdoor Center / Bryson City - 137.1 miles
Nero day #2, and day #4 for some serious trail magic! Walked the .8 miles this morning into the NOC and met up with Dr. Bruce and Glenda. Oh my gosh! They did everything for us! Got us a hotel, food, laundry, lunch, resupply, more food, dinner, ice cream and more laundry. So incredibly generous. Right now I'm in my own room with a king sized bed. Unbelievable and definitely trail magic. I am so blessed by them and thankful for their kind and loving hearts. For real.
***
Nero day #2, and day #4 for some serious trail magic! Walked the .8 miles this morning into the NOC and met up with Dr. Bruce and Glenda. Oh my gosh! They did everything for us! Got us a hotel, food, laundry, lunch, resupply, more food, dinner, ice cream and more laundry. So incredibly generous. Right now I'm in my own room with a king sized bed. Unbelievable and definitely trail magic. I am so blessed by them and thankful for their kind and loving hearts. For real.
***
Wednesday, March 13, 2013
Day 13
03/13/12 - A. Rufus Morgan Shelter - 136.3 miles
16 mile day! And third consecutive day of trail magic. Day one was the tub, yesterday a former thru-hiker (Socks) had McDonalds on the trail, and today at Wesser Bald a group from Snowbird came up for a day-hike and gave us food. One of the girls, Stride, was a former thru-hiker. Today started off cold and wet and ended dry and warm. It's already starting to get hot.
***
Stride also went on to thru-hike the PCT in 2012. You can check out her two thru-hikes here. Congrats, Stride! And thanks for the Lucky Charms on Wesser.
16 mile day! And third consecutive day of trail magic. Day one was the tub, yesterday a former thru-hiker (Socks) had McDonalds on the trail, and today at Wesser Bald a group from Snowbird came up for a day-hike and gave us food. One of the girls, Stride, was a former thru-hiker. Today started off cold and wet and ended dry and warm. It's already starting to get hot.
***
Stride also went on to thru-hike the PCT in 2012. You can check out her two thru-hikes here. Congrats, Stride! And thanks for the Lucky Charms on Wesser.
Tuesday, March 12, 2013
Day 12
So cold. So wet. My fingers are just barely able to write anything. About 30 minutes ago I was in convulsions and could not strike a match. Fingers just weren't moving. Now I'm in dry clothes (ish) and my sleeping bag. Definitely a whole 'nother level of difficulty here on the AT. Our first full day of rain.
***
I walked to the mailbox today and was so excited to see the March/April '13 issue of AT Journeys waiting for me! Then I looked inside...
Monday, March 11, 2013
Day 11
03/11/12 - Rock Gap Shelter - 106 miles
We have walked over 100 miles! Feels great. Anna is still feeling a bit sick and uncomfortable. We both have something like heat rash on the tops of our hands and my ears are peeling from sunburn. Right now the sun is setting and Anna is curled up in her tent. I have a fire going and am listening to the birds. I just saw a large woodpecker. We are going to try to get to the NOC in three days. We shall see. We are camped down below from the shelter. It is a beautiful evening. We also had some trail magic today when we came across a tub hanging above the trail. Inside was a note and homemade cookies from Gingersnap, a 2011 thru-hiker. So wonderful!
*Weird creepy owl during the night. Part owl, part wolf.
***
We have walked over 100 miles! Feels great. Anna is still feeling a bit sick and uncomfortable. We both have something like heat rash on the tops of our hands and my ears are peeling from sunburn. Right now the sun is setting and Anna is curled up in her tent. I have a fire going and am listening to the birds. I just saw a large woodpecker. We are going to try to get to the NOC in three days. We shall see. We are camped down below from the shelter. It is a beautiful evening. We also had some trail magic today when we came across a tub hanging above the trail. Inside was a note and homemade cookies from Gingersnap, a 2011 thru-hiker. So wonderful!
*Weird creepy owl during the night. Part owl, part wolf.
***
Sunday, March 10, 2013
Day 10
03/10/12 - Between Carter Gap & Betty Creek - ≈95 miles
Today's hiking was easier than yesterday. But poor Anna hasn't been feeling too good. I feel for her and wish there was more that I could do. And we're both running low on TP.
*Such a still, quiet night.
***
Today's hiking was easier than yesterday. But poor Anna hasn't been feeling too good. I feel for her and wish there was more that I could do. And we're both running low on TP.
*Such a still, quiet night.
***
Saturday, March 9, 2013
Day 9
03/09/12 - Near Muskrat Creek - 81.4 miles
Today was TOUGH. We got the shuttle out of town and set off towards the anticipated NC border. I was slow going right away. I think being in town softened me up. I got a good night's sleep, but I was so tired on the trail. Like sleepy tired. I was struggling. Anna led most of the day and was doing awesome. I was crawling. Exhausted. Discouraged. The border seemed so far away. When we finally crossed into NC, the trail immediately went straight up a mountain. And for a long time. It was brutal and my knee was killing me, but it was beautiful as always. We set up camp just before the shelter on a ridge overlooking the valley below. Ate dinner as the sun set. Then Cicada, John, and a few other guys came up from the shelter to watch the sun set. Romantic moment FAIL. But it was fine. Pretty cool guys. Tonight is a cold one. Wish I was snuggled with Anna.
***
Today was TOUGH. We got the shuttle out of town and set off towards the anticipated NC border. I was slow going right away. I think being in town softened me up. I got a good night's sleep, but I was so tired on the trail. Like sleepy tired. I was struggling. Anna led most of the day and was doing awesome. I was crawling. Exhausted. Discouraged. The border seemed so far away. When we finally crossed into NC, the trail immediately went straight up a mountain. And for a long time. It was brutal and my knee was killing me, but it was beautiful as always. We set up camp just before the shelter on a ridge overlooking the valley below. Ate dinner as the sun set. Then Cicada, John, and a few other guys came up from the shelter to watch the sun set. Romantic moment FAIL. But it was fine. Pretty cool guys. Tonight is a cold one. Wish I was snuggled with Anna.
***
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| GA/NC border. This handshake just happened. |
Friday, March 8, 2013
Day 8
03/08/12 - Hiawassee - 69.6 miles
Our first "nero" day and first day in town. We woke this morning to heavy fog and hiked about 2.4 miles to Dicks Creek Gap. There, the other thru-hikers were waiting to be picked up by the Budget Inn shuttle. About 13 of us total. The shuttle came and we got a room with two beds, bathroom, shower, TV & coin laundry! Ate some breakfast at Huddle House with John and Bread'n'Butter. Good conversation with them. Dried out and cleaned up then resupplied at Ingles and ate dinner at Zaxby's with a mint Oreo Blizzard at Dairy Queen. Did some blogging and now in bed for a nice comfy sleep. We are exhausted. When we were walking back from Ingles, GoodDeeds offered us a beer. I accepted and we talked for a bit with him, Salty, MellowYellow, Chief, and Cicada. I enjoyed that.
***
Months later, Anna and I would still talk about that dinner in Hiawassee. One of our favorites.
Our first "nero" day and first day in town. We woke this morning to heavy fog and hiked about 2.4 miles to Dicks Creek Gap. There, the other thru-hikers were waiting to be picked up by the Budget Inn shuttle. About 13 of us total. The shuttle came and we got a room with two beds, bathroom, shower, TV & coin laundry! Ate some breakfast at Huddle House with John and Bread'n'Butter. Good conversation with them. Dried out and cleaned up then resupplied at Ingles and ate dinner at Zaxby's with a mint Oreo Blizzard at Dairy Queen. Did some blogging and now in bed for a nice comfy sleep. We are exhausted. When we were walking back from Ingles, GoodDeeds offered us a beer. I accepted and we talked for a bit with him, Salty, MellowYellow, Chief, and Cicada. I enjoyed that.
***
Months later, Anna and I would still talk about that dinner in Hiawassee. One of our favorites.
 |
| Self portrait as we reviewed our Ingles resupply in a gazebo. |
Thursday, March 7, 2013
Day 7
03/07/12 - McClure Gap - 67.2 miles
This is the earliest we've been in camp so far. Bear bag has been hung, dinner eaten, and we are in our tents with the sun still up. I think it's about six or so. We are at a campsite with one other guy, Pittsburgh Paul, who is camping in his hammock. Today was a pretty difficult hiking day – lots of ups and downs and steep climbs. Only a couple minor blisters on my feet, but my knee is doing better, and the rest of my body seems to be doing alright. Though I feel like I'm constantly having to poop. And I hate pooping in the woods. Who woulda thought for a thru-hiker, huh?
***
We met Pittsburgh Paul that one night and did not see him again until the day we left Harpers Ferry.
This is the earliest we've been in camp so far. Bear bag has been hung, dinner eaten, and we are in our tents with the sun still up. I think it's about six or so. We are at a campsite with one other guy, Pittsburgh Paul, who is camping in his hammock. Today was a pretty difficult hiking day – lots of ups and downs and steep climbs. Only a couple minor blisters on my feet, but my knee is doing better, and the rest of my body seems to be doing alright. Though I feel like I'm constantly having to poop. And I hate pooping in the woods. Who woulda thought for a thru-hiker, huh?
***
We met Pittsburgh Paul that one night and did not see him again until the day we left Harpers Ferry.
Wednesday, March 6, 2013
Day 6
03/06/12 - Cheese Factory Site - 56.6 miles
13.4 mile day! For me, started off kind of glum, but after talking with KitFox and Animal, pooping twice, and getting some fig newtons from Old Hiker, things were looking up. I was able to upload a few video updates to the blog and send a few texts. We're about a day away from Hiawassee – the first of our hiker towns. Right now we're camped at an old cheese factory site, which seems completely random to us. Cicada, Sunshine, Rocky, and Chief are here, too. This was the first day KitFox and I exceeded our expected miles for the day. Tomorrow, maybe Deep Gap Shelter. It is a full moon.
***
13.4 mile day! For me, started off kind of glum, but after talking with KitFox and Animal, pooping twice, and getting some fig newtons from Old Hiker, things were looking up. I was able to upload a few video updates to the blog and send a few texts. We're about a day away from Hiawassee – the first of our hiker towns. Right now we're camped at an old cheese factory site, which seems completely random to us. Cicada, Sunshine, Rocky, and Chief are here, too. This was the first day KitFox and I exceeded our expected miles for the day. Tomorrow, maybe Deep Gap Shelter. It is a full moon.
***
Tuesday, March 5, 2013
Day 5
03/05/12 - Low Gap Shelter - 43.2 miles
This morning we waited for the Neels Gap store to open, then opted for the pack shake down. It was a very humbling / sad experience. I dropped 8 lbs. total... including my camera and my GoPro, along with many other little things I felt like I should have kept. But when I put that pack back on, I could feel it. And it felt so good. I also got a knee brace, and it made a huge difference. Today, Anna and I did about 11 miles, and the last 4.5 were done in about 2 hours. We got a late start (eating hiker heaven food and drinking Diet Coke and OJ) so we wanted to push ourselves to try and make up time. Now our tents are pitched down from the shelter by a nice babbling brook. It's cold and peaceful. Thank you, Lord.
***
Monday, March 4, 2013
Day 4
03/04/12 - Neels Gap - 31.7 miles
Woke up earlier this morning and caught the sunrise. SO COLD. Mountain winds were chilling us all day. Hiked up and over Blood Mountain (snow flurries) and met some other thru-hikers. Arrived at Neels Gap with every delicacy imaginable. I bought a knee brace, a Philly cheese steak, two slices of pizza and two diet cokes. Anna bought some Aquamira droplets, a chicken cheese chimichanga, two slices of pizza and an orange Fanta. Talked with Baltimore Jack for a bit. Super nice guy with a lot of good advice and encouragement. Anna and I are doing laundry now, then headed behind the building where our tents are set. The hostel was full for tonight.
***
Woke up earlier this morning and caught the sunrise. SO COLD. Mountain winds were chilling us all day. Hiked up and over Blood Mountain (snow flurries) and met some other thru-hikers. Arrived at Neels Gap with every delicacy imaginable. I bought a knee brace, a Philly cheese steak, two slices of pizza and two diet cokes. Anna bought some Aquamira droplets, a chicken cheese chimichanga, two slices of pizza and an orange Fanta. Talked with Baltimore Jack for a bit. Super nice guy with a lot of good advice and encouragement. Anna and I are doing laundry now, then headed behind the building where our tents are set. The hostel was full for tonight.
***
 | |
| Neels Gap, the only place where the AT goes through a building |
Sunday, March 3, 2013
Day 3
03/03/12 - Big Cedar Mountain - 22.1 miles
Today was another tough one. 10 miles, but difficult. We both feel like a mile on the AT is different than a mile in the real world. Tomorrow is another 10 mile day over Blood Mountain and to Neels Gap. Possibly laundry and a hostel stay at Neels Gap. We'll see. This evening Anna and I found a campsite near the summit of Big Cedar Mountain. We ate dinner as the sun set behind us and watched the sky darken over the mountain range. A city of lights came alive far below and across the horizon. It's getting colder. This morning was cold, and this evening is another cold one – possibly getting below freezing. Gonna try to get an earlier start tomorrow... without setting an alarm. Hmm...
***
Today was another tough one. 10 miles, but difficult. We both feel like a mile on the AT is different than a mile in the real world. Tomorrow is another 10 mile day over Blood Mountain and to Neels Gap. Possibly laundry and a hostel stay at Neels Gap. We'll see. This evening Anna and I found a campsite near the summit of Big Cedar Mountain. We ate dinner as the sun set behind us and watched the sky darken over the mountain range. A city of lights came alive far below and across the horizon. It's getting colder. This morning was cold, and this evening is another cold one – possibly getting below freezing. Gonna try to get an earlier start tomorrow... without setting an alarm. Hmm...
***
Saturday, March 2, 2013
Day 2
03/02/12 - Between Horse and Cooper Gap - ≈12 miles
OUCH. My left shoulder and right knee are kicking my butt. Today was tough. We were shooting for Justus Creek about 2.5 miles further up... but we were both too tired... myself especially. Anna has been fantastic! The wind and fog has been incredible.
*CRAZY thunderstorms in the night!
***
Today we drove up to Woody Gap (where we would pass through on our third day). Lots of snow coming down on the mountains. Absolutely beautiful. Picked up some coffee and donuts for the hikers, and gave seven of them a ride into town to escape the snow. Two of them, Mama Squirrel and Ciento, recognized us because they had seen our video!
OUCH. My left shoulder and right knee are kicking my butt. Today was tough. We were shooting for Justus Creek about 2.5 miles further up... but we were both too tired... myself especially. Anna has been fantastic! The wind and fog has been incredible.
*CRAZY thunderstorms in the night!
***
Today we drove up to Woody Gap (where we would pass through on our third day). Lots of snow coming down on the mountains. Absolutely beautiful. Picked up some coffee and donuts for the hikers, and gave seven of them a ride into town to escape the snow. Two of them, Mama Squirrel and Ciento, recognized us because they had seen our video!
Friday, March 1, 2013
Day 1
03/01/12 - Springer Mountain Shelter - 0.2 miles
Started off this morning from the Amicalola Falls Visitor Center. Hiked with the parents up the falls until Bruce had to leave. Continued on up with Mom, Dad, and Glenda. After one mile or so on the approach trail, we parted ways and were off. I am so sore right now. Those nine miles to Springer Mountain were brutal. Though we are fresh noobs at this point. Kept thinking we were approaching Springer... kept watching the mountain summits come and go. When we did finally reach Springer, Mom, Dad, and Glenda were there to surprise us. We signed the trail journal in the rock and were off [to the shelter]. One full day of hiking – only .2 miles on the AT.
***
As a side note, I typically wrote each entry just before bed every evening. And at times I would make an addition to the entry the following morning if something crazy happened during the night.
As a second side note, today being the anniversary of our start date, I found it very difficult being in an office all day sandwiched by three hours of rush hour traffic.
Started off this morning from the Amicalola Falls Visitor Center. Hiked with the parents up the falls until Bruce had to leave. Continued on up with Mom, Dad, and Glenda. After one mile or so on the approach trail, we parted ways and were off. I am so sore right now. Those nine miles to Springer Mountain were brutal. Though we are fresh noobs at this point. Kept thinking we were approaching Springer... kept watching the mountain summits come and go. When we did finally reach Springer, Mom, Dad, and Glenda were there to surprise us. We signed the trail journal in the rock and were off [to the shelter]. One full day of hiking – only .2 miles on the AT.
***
As a side note, I typically wrote each entry just before bed every evening. And at times I would make an addition to the entry the following morning if something crazy happened during the night.
As a second side note, today being the anniversary of our start date, I found it very difficult being in an office all day sandwiched by three hours of rush hour traffic.
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