Waymaker on the A.T.: Day 89, Thursday May 27, 2021

Psalms 1 - 57

Alec Kennedy Shelter to Lisa’s Hostel in Boiling Springs - 4.0 miles hiked today - 1124.1 total AT miles hiked to date.

Last night was a reminder of why I avoid sleeping in shelters. Between the snoring and the rustling of sleeping pads, combined with the three late arrivals piling into the shelter after 10 pm, there wasn’t a lot of sleep to be had.

Nevertheless, we got up and packed up our gear and headed out early, knowing we’d only be hiking 4 miles into town. The rain had dried up and the trail was relatively dry. Within a mile we reached the Center Point memorial which commemorates the original half way point of the original AT.

Past the Center Point, we emerged from the woods, and into an open series of farm fields. The last few miles into town crossed several of these fields, before emerging into Boiling Springs.

Boiling Springs is a quaint little town that the trail goes right through the middle of. The ATC regional office is located there, although it is still closed. There is a lively lake in the middle of town and scenic historic buildings surrounding it. We had breakfast at Cafe 101, and checked out the outfitter, although at this point no one really needs any additional gear to carry. We checked into Lisa’s hostel, where I was able to shower, get laundry done, and prepare for several days off the trail. Dinner was grilled cheese sandwiches provided by the hostel.