Day 18: Clingmans Dome
Hiked up and over Clingmans Dome today. It is the highest point on the A.T. There is a road to the top so after climbing it you suddenly pop out into a crowd of tourists. Was weird. I climbed the observation tower but Read More
Day 17: Over Rocky Top
A really nice hiking day, 15 miles, over Rocky Top and on to Silers Bald. Saw two flocks of turkeys today. Started me thinking, turkey….stuffing…mashed potatoes.
Day 16: Up Into The Smokies
I loaded up with 4 liters of water, crossed the dam and trudged all day up into the Smokies. I really felt the extra 8.8 lbs of water, along with a full 7 days food. Made it to Russell Field Shelter, about a 14.8 Read More
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
