Today was clear and cold as we got up and packed. Got out early at 7:30 or so, knowing we had 2 large climbs ahead. The first was Blood Mountain, which I’d scaled successfully 17 years ago when we took Venture Crew 11 on a 52.5 section hike of the AT. Our co-ed crew of 4 adults (Carolyn and I and two others) led a group of a dozen or so fir a week. I’m currently retracing those steps.
Blood Mountain was what I remembered, with the very cool stone Shelter at the top. We paused there for a rest before heading down into Neels Gap and our first glimpse of civilization in several days.
As we came down into Neels gap we arrived at Mountain Crossings, an outfitter right on the trail at mile 31.3. There we were able to secure some hot food and minimal resupply. I had a Philly Steak sandwich, slice of pizza, corn chips, Butterfinger and a Cherry Coke. Good stuff.
Mountain Crossing is where a small percentage of hikers hang it up (literally). The tradition is to hang your hiking boots from the tree out front if you quit there.
From there, we headed out that afternoon, planning to add another 5 or six miles before stopping. In a tactical error, we ended up hiKing 1.2 miles off the trail (2.4 miles round trip) to stay at Whitley Gap shelter. We met Snowman there, the oldest hiker we’ve seen so far at 69. He’s also planning on going all the way, but is taking it very slow. Since we three were the only ones there for the night, Rick elected to sleep in the shelter. I pitched my tent. After a dinner of tuna in olive oil, Lays chips, and a Snickers, I turned in early. Most nights so far I’m in the tent and asleep by 7:30.
Met 92 Proof, a former Marine with 30 years of service, and Carter, just out of the Army. 92 has a bum knee so is doubtful he’ll make it all the way.
Great job, keep up the good work!! D Moore
ReplyDelete