Day 15: Fontana Dam
Started before sunrise because I had 15 miles to get to Fontana, then a 2 mile road walk to get to the resort where my resupply package waits, then 2 miles back to the trail and the shelter near the dam. Made good time Read More
Day 14: Cheoah Bald
I left NOC early this morning after saying goodbye to Julian, who ends his trip here. From an elevation of 1700 feet at the river I climbed all morning to the top of Cheoah Bald at over 5000 feet. Gorgeous mountain, tough trail. Read More
Day 13: Cheeseburger Express
Last night we were camped only 3.5 miles away from the Nantahala Outdoor Center on the Nantahala River. Whitewater rafting center, outfitter, restaurant, and hostel. Even up where we were the sound of the train that runs up and down the gorge Read More
Day 12: Pain, Screams, Howls and Puke
Last night in the Wayah Bald Shelter was not a five star experience. It was raining hard and the shelter was dry, I give it that. There were five of us there, six if you count Wayah the dog, which is what I Read More
Day 11: Wayah Bald
Just before the sun came up the rain started. I packed up without making breakfast so I could do a few miles and eat in a less exposed area. Before I left camp I told Julian I was going to push for Read More
Day 10: Albert
Another glorious weather day. It was cold enough to enjoy my bag last night. Perhaps in low 50s. Within a few miles this morning there were great views from Ridgepole Mtn. Later, the climb up Albert Mtn was tough. Steep, using hands Read More
Day 9: Standing Indian
Todays 12.5 miles were dominated by the climb up and over Standing Indian Mtn. Even though a big climb the trail was not as rocky as it has been and seemed easier. My knee has been a bit better, the brace and Read More
Day 8: Big Climb, Big Meal
Left the comfort of the Top Of Georgia hostel at 8 and hit the trail. Hiked about 12 miles, with a big climb up out of Dicks Creek Gap. Crossed into North Carolina this afternoon and ended at the Muskrat Creek Shelter. Julian, my hiking Read More
Day 7: Dicks Creek Gap, Hiawasse resupply
Made it to my first resupply point at Dicks Creek Gap. Hiawasse is 11 miles west but the Top Of Georgia Hostel is just a half mile from the trail. The hostel offers a bunk, shower and laundry service for $30. I had a Read More
Day 5: I Reek
Walked from Hogpen Gap to the Blue Mtn Shelter todayn about 11 miles. During the beautiful hike I realized that my odor had gone way way past smelling, beyond stinking….I reek. The water source this evening is a tiny trickle but I managed Read More
