I was the last one to get out of camp as I had to take care of my tent from sitting in the puddle all evening. I had a conversation with Coach and said my goodbyes. I enjoyed having the chance to meet him and get to know him over the last day. There is a chance we might see each other in Maine in August.
The morning was not much better when it came to the rain. If it wasn't raining then it was at least a mist. Some of the creek crossings seeming like river crossings and took some planning in order to cross. We all met up at a shelter to eat lunch. My feet were pretty tore up from the long miles and all the rain the past few days.
The rain let up as I climbed to the top of Bear Den Rocks. I got a good view from the top. I also spent some time speaking with a gentleman and four young boys. All were very inquisitive about my trip. I have said this before, but I enjoy having people ask questions about the trail, especially younger kids. During the discussion, I spoke about trail angels and trail magic. Before I knew it, the man was pulling out a chewy snack bar. I felt bad cause in no way was I wanting to get food. I tried to turn it down, but he wouldn't let me. I took their picture and passed on my blog. I hope they take the chance to follow me.
Shortly after Bears Den, I got to the West Virginia state line. I took some pictures and then rested for a little bit while looking out into the valley from Crescent Rock. I figured the others would be right behind me, but no one appeared after about 30 minutes. Not wanting to hike in the dark, I headed on.
I crossed the 1,000 mile mark and stopped at the Blackburn Trail Center. The Center is maintained by PATC and allows hikers to stay in the bunkhouse or on a porch for free. I opted to stay on the porch. I was treated to a nacho dinner by the caretaker. PM was already there and Samurai showed up about an hour later. The fog was so bad once it got dark that Samurai had to hold his headlamp in his hand in order to see the trail. I got a text from TW saying her and SR had stopped hiking about 6 miles back. They were too tired to hike any further.
I got a view of DC from the porch before going to sleep. The evening was a little chilly, but nice since I was staying dry.
Showing posts with label VA. Show all posts
Showing posts with label VA. Show all posts
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
May 22 - 15.9 / 975.4
I'm back to trying to catch up on some blogs.
On the 22nd, we woke up in the hotel with a little motivation to get out of town. The breakfast options were limited so McDonalds was our only choice. I think most of us ordered at least two or three times. Prime Minister ate the most. I think he calculated his meal as being over 2,500 calories. I decided to get a haircut while the others ran some errands around town. We finally finished everything up and headed toward the trail by late morning. Samurai, TW, and SR got the first hitch out. PM and I got another one about 20 minutes later. Phil and Coach were the two that picked us up. Coach was out for a few weeks doing some section hiking. He ended up joining us for the rest of the day's hike.
I stopped and called my mom to wish her a happy birthday. It was a brief conversation as the reception was limited and she was busy/stressing out about getting everything together for my brother's wedding.
By the end of the day, it had started to rain, and I was ready to get to the shelter. All the others were there by the time I arrived. There were also two boy scout troops there. All the tent sites were taken so I just made due by making a site on the trail to the shelter. The rain got heavier during the night. Before I knew it, I was sleeping in a puddle. Luckily most of the water stayed out of my tent, but I was pretty much floating. I didn't get much sleep as I was worried I was going to get wet. I woke up once and looked out into my vestible. Water was high enough to be going into the soles of my crocs. I also saw worms swimming around in the puddle. I was ready to get up and moving.
On the 22nd, we woke up in the hotel with a little motivation to get out of town. The breakfast options were limited so McDonalds was our only choice. I think most of us ordered at least two or three times. Prime Minister ate the most. I think he calculated his meal as being over 2,500 calories. I decided to get a haircut while the others ran some errands around town. We finally finished everything up and headed toward the trail by late morning. Samurai, TW, and SR got the first hitch out. PM and I got another one about 20 minutes later. Phil and Coach were the two that picked us up. Coach was out for a few weeks doing some section hiking. He ended up joining us for the rest of the day's hike.
I stopped and called my mom to wish her a happy birthday. It was a brief conversation as the reception was limited and she was busy/stressing out about getting everything together for my brother's wedding.
By the end of the day, it had started to rain, and I was ready to get to the shelter. All the others were there by the time I arrived. There were also two boy scout troops there. All the tent sites were taken so I just made due by making a site on the trail to the shelter. The rain got heavier during the night. Before I knew it, I was sleeping in a puddle. Luckily most of the water stayed out of my tent, but I was pretty much floating. I didn't get much sleep as I was worried I was going to get wet. I woke up once and looked out into my vestible. Water was high enough to be going into the soles of my crocs. I also saw worms swimming around in the puddle. I was ready to get up and moving.
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
May 19 - 20.6 / 906.2, May 20 - 26.8 / 933.0, May 21 - 26.5 / 959.5
Waiting too many days to write this blog has caused me to forget what I did. I do remember some things though.
The afternoon of the 19th brought me some excitement. I had taken a break where the trail crosses US 33 at Run Gap. I made a few phone calls to see what campgrounds and waysides were open. Before we had even gotten into SNP, everyone kept telling us that you don't even need to take a food bag as there are places where the trail goes over a road and one can buy food for that day. Anyway, as I was sitting there, everyone passed me. Samurai was about 50 yards ahead of me as I headed up the mountain from the gap. I all of a sudden got a strange feeling that someone or something was looking at me. I looked over and saw an adult black bear about 20 to 30 yards off the trail just staring at me. I instantly got exciting and starting to yell at Samurai. He stopped and I asked him if he had seen it. He did not. By this time I had stopped and pulled out my camera. I took a few shots of the bear. Nothing too good, but at least I got something. The bear was unfased for the most part that we were even there. It was look at us for a few seconds and then go back to eating whatever it was eating. Excited, I caught up to SR. I asked him if he had seen it, and he had not. It got upset because he is the only one in the group who has not seen one yet.
We trucked on and passed the 900 mile mark. It was a quick celebration as we knew we had something better to do. We had to get to a campground that is beside the trail that serves adult beverages and ice cream. Plus, it was just short of shelter we were going to be stopping at. We got to the campground just in time. (Ha ha ha...a quick side note. I am sitting in the trail station waiting for the train into DC. Some lady just ripped one. In the woods, that is normal. In real world civilization, that is funny.) It was like Christmas, except at tourist prices. I bought a few drinks, some hot dog buns, and a pint of ice cream. I put the ice cream in a zip lock and then stuffed it in my sleeping bag to keep it cold. Before leaving, I spoke with an older couple who was just out trailer camping for a few days. They made sure my health was good and asked about life along the trail.
Shortly after hiking again, SR and I rolled into the shelter area. I set up my tent and got ready for the festivities. That night, it was my normal meal of a pasta side and sweets, a few hot dogs, a few adult drinks, and a pint of ice cream. The sleeping bag did its job in keeping the ice cream cold until I ate it.
That night was also the first night I met Veggie and K 2 5. I had seen some of their entries in the shelter logs for some time. Now I was able to put a face with a name. I also met a guy who was out for a few days. He ended up being from DC. I told him I was going to be leaving trail in a few days and site-seeing in DC. He immediately offered up a place to leave my pack and sleep if I needed it. That is the type of community out here.
I woke up around 5 on the morning of the 20th. Prime Minister is always the first to get up and get out of camp. He can be up and out in about 5 to 10 minutes. The four of us had conspired the night before to get up quietly and out of camp before PM. We would then be up the trail waiting for him. All of us were up and about ready to go. That is when is saw a very weary looking PM walking up the side trail back toward the AT. I couldn't believe it. Somehow he had still beaten us to it.
The goal for the morning was to hike 16 miles to the Skyland Resort. Originally, the resort was owned my George Pollack. In the 19th century, Pollack pushed hard to evict surrounding land holders and create a national park. Ironically, he was later forced to sell and give up management of the resort. We made it in time to buy some lunch. It was probably the most overpriced hamburger and beer I have ever had. Later that day, I crossed over the Pinnacle and came to Mary's Rock. As I got to Mary's Rock, I saw K 2 5 sitting up on the top of the rocks. Some of us climbed up there too for a 360 degree view of the park and a setting sun.
We arrived at the Pass Mtn Hut fairly late in the day as we had hiked almost 27 miles and stopped for a long lunch. Sticks and Absent were at the hut. I hadn't seen them in a few weeks. I thought they were a few days ahead, but they said they had been hiking shorter days. Also at the hut was a guy out "training" for a thru hike. His plan was to start in June and do a flip flop. After 20 minutes of him talking about it and asking questions, I had to go to bed. I couldn't take anymore of it.
The 21st was another long day. Nothing too exciting other than it was the last day to be in SNP. I think all of us were ready to get out of there. The hiking wasn't that bad (other than all the rain we had). However, I wasn't too impressed with the park. It was fairly boring for the most part. It was either Samurai or SR who said it best. One said he would come back in a car and drive through the park as that is how SNP should be experienced. Skyline Drive takes most of the views away from the trail. Other than the 360 view, the vistas were few and mostly of the same valley in one day. I did see a bear though.
The end of the 21st got us into Front Royal, VA. Samurai and I hitched together while SR and TW got a hitch afterwards. We met at the Food Lion for a resupply. PM appeared out of no where and joined us. We grabbed some dinner and split a room at the Center City Motel. Definitely one of the worst places I have ever stayed. Our non-smoking room smelled as if some has left 20 ashtrays in the room. I think the bathroom was dirtier than I was, and I know I was pretty dirty.
The night was spent watching a few movies and then heading to bed.
The afternoon of the 19th brought me some excitement. I had taken a break where the trail crosses US 33 at Run Gap. I made a few phone calls to see what campgrounds and waysides were open. Before we had even gotten into SNP, everyone kept telling us that you don't even need to take a food bag as there are places where the trail goes over a road and one can buy food for that day. Anyway, as I was sitting there, everyone passed me. Samurai was about 50 yards ahead of me as I headed up the mountain from the gap. I all of a sudden got a strange feeling that someone or something was looking at me. I looked over and saw an adult black bear about 20 to 30 yards off the trail just staring at me. I instantly got exciting and starting to yell at Samurai. He stopped and I asked him if he had seen it. He did not. By this time I had stopped and pulled out my camera. I took a few shots of the bear. Nothing too good, but at least I got something. The bear was unfased for the most part that we were even there. It was look at us for a few seconds and then go back to eating whatever it was eating. Excited, I caught up to SR. I asked him if he had seen it, and he had not. It got upset because he is the only one in the group who has not seen one yet.
We trucked on and passed the 900 mile mark. It was a quick celebration as we knew we had something better to do. We had to get to a campground that is beside the trail that serves adult beverages and ice cream. Plus, it was just short of shelter we were going to be stopping at. We got to the campground just in time. (Ha ha ha...a quick side note. I am sitting in the trail station waiting for the train into DC. Some lady just ripped one. In the woods, that is normal. In real world civilization, that is funny.) It was like Christmas, except at tourist prices. I bought a few drinks, some hot dog buns, and a pint of ice cream. I put the ice cream in a zip lock and then stuffed it in my sleeping bag to keep it cold. Before leaving, I spoke with an older couple who was just out trailer camping for a few days. They made sure my health was good and asked about life along the trail.
Shortly after hiking again, SR and I rolled into the shelter area. I set up my tent and got ready for the festivities. That night, it was my normal meal of a pasta side and sweets, a few hot dogs, a few adult drinks, and a pint of ice cream. The sleeping bag did its job in keeping the ice cream cold until I ate it.
That night was also the first night I met Veggie and K 2 5. I had seen some of their entries in the shelter logs for some time. Now I was able to put a face with a name. I also met a guy who was out for a few days. He ended up being from DC. I told him I was going to be leaving trail in a few days and site-seeing in DC. He immediately offered up a place to leave my pack and sleep if I needed it. That is the type of community out here.
I woke up around 5 on the morning of the 20th. Prime Minister is always the first to get up and get out of camp. He can be up and out in about 5 to 10 minutes. The four of us had conspired the night before to get up quietly and out of camp before PM. We would then be up the trail waiting for him. All of us were up and about ready to go. That is when is saw a very weary looking PM walking up the side trail back toward the AT. I couldn't believe it. Somehow he had still beaten us to it.
The goal for the morning was to hike 16 miles to the Skyland Resort. Originally, the resort was owned my George Pollack. In the 19th century, Pollack pushed hard to evict surrounding land holders and create a national park. Ironically, he was later forced to sell and give up management of the resort. We made it in time to buy some lunch. It was probably the most overpriced hamburger and beer I have ever had. Later that day, I crossed over the Pinnacle and came to Mary's Rock. As I got to Mary's Rock, I saw K 2 5 sitting up on the top of the rocks. Some of us climbed up there too for a 360 degree view of the park and a setting sun.
We arrived at the Pass Mtn Hut fairly late in the day as we had hiked almost 27 miles and stopped for a long lunch. Sticks and Absent were at the hut. I hadn't seen them in a few weeks. I thought they were a few days ahead, but they said they had been hiking shorter days. Also at the hut was a guy out "training" for a thru hike. His plan was to start in June and do a flip flop. After 20 minutes of him talking about it and asking questions, I had to go to bed. I couldn't take anymore of it.
The 21st was another long day. Nothing too exciting other than it was the last day to be in SNP. I think all of us were ready to get out of there. The hiking wasn't that bad (other than all the rain we had). However, I wasn't too impressed with the park. It was fairly boring for the most part. It was either Samurai or SR who said it best. One said he would come back in a car and drive through the park as that is how SNP should be experienced. Skyline Drive takes most of the views away from the trail. Other than the 360 view, the vistas were few and mostly of the same valley in one day. I did see a bear though.
The end of the 21st got us into Front Royal, VA. Samurai and I hitched together while SR and TW got a hitch afterwards. We met at the Food Lion for a resupply. PM appeared out of no where and joined us. We grabbed some dinner and split a room at the Center City Motel. Definitely one of the worst places I have ever stayed. Our non-smoking room smelled as if some has left 20 ashtrays in the room. I think the bathroom was dirtier than I was, and I know I was pretty dirty.
The night was spent watching a few movies and then heading to bed.
May 17 - 6.3 / 859.4 and May 18 - 26.2 / 885.6
May 17th through the 21st were spent hiking through Shenandoah National Park (SNP). We left Ken's fairly early on the 17th with all intentions of getting back on the trail after Trail Days and knocking out some miles. Ken dropped us off at the Kroger in Waynesboro so we could resupply. We said our goodbyes and thanked him one more time for hosting us. We spent the next hour or two resupplying and going to the post office. I had to stop by the post office to pick up a shirt mailed to me by the University of Tennessee. Someone there got a hold of what I was doing and how I was trying to raise money for children's charities. Now I have a shirt that says something about "Volunteers that Rock." I have to take a picture with that and then turn it in with my story. It's pretty cool to be able to spread my story and fundraising efforts through UT. I'm not sure if it will help raise additional funds, but at least the word will get out.
PM was supposed to pick up some new shoes at the PO, but they were not there. He has had some rough times with getting stuff send to him through the post office.
After resupplying we started walking to the local outfitter. I stopped at a gas station half way there to buy some peach rings. The others followed. Next thing I know, a guy asks us if we need a ride anywhere. So four of us (no PM) rode in his truck the rest of the way to the outfitter. We all spent some time getting some items. I somehow figured out a way to spend more money than I needed to. After about an hour and a half there, we called one of the local "trail angels" to give us a ride to the trail. The four of us, with TW in the cab, rode to the trail. Samurai, SR, and I about froze sitting in the bed due to the wind and rain.
It was now early afternoon when we began to hike into the park. I think the plan was to hike about 15 miles. I got 6 miles in to the side trail to the first shelter first. I started to take out some food to snack on and tried to keep myself warm. It takes some adjustment to go from hiking to a dead stop and keeping warm, especially in a cold rain. The other three arrived a few minutes later. I could tell that they really didn't want to go on. I wanted too keep hiking, but I couldn't get the courage to argue against three others. Plus, it was cold and rainy. Dry clothes and a warm sleeping bag probably weren't a bad choice though. The shelter was almost full. The four of us were able to squeeze in on the second level even though I think it was really built for about two or three. I got pretty chilling that night in my summer bag. The shelter wasn't the best for blocking wind.
PM also showed up later that night. His shoes were sent to the outfitter instead of the post office. UPS will not do general deliveries to a post office. I guess they figured the package was for a hiker and figured the outfitter would be a good place to drop it off.
The 18th wasn't much better that the 17th. The day was long and the weather was overcast all day. I ran into Judy (the lady who gave us a ride into Waynesboro a few days earlier). Her and her husband Gene were back on the trail doing some more section hiking after going to Trail Days too. We spoke for a few minutes and then headed separate ways.
My legs and feet killed me all day. Taking a few days off had its toll. Plus, I lost some of my callouses (sp?) that I had built up on my pinkie toes. Hiking in wet shoes and over rocks caused blisters to start forming again. Not too fun.
Half way through the hike, I was coming down a hill toward Skyline Drive and saw a pale white butt sticking up in the air. I couldn't believe it. I was seeing a female using the restroom right on the trail for a second time. This time the lady had no idea I was there. I stopped, turned around, and as quietly as possible started to walk back up the hill. I then heard her yell to her group that she was done. That was my indication also to start hiking toward her. As I approached, she gave out a startled yell and said, "Oh my gosh, I was just using the restroom. That was perfect timing as I just finished." I played it off as if I didn't know and told her to enjoy her hike. I mean, what the heck was she thinking. Lots of people hike the trail and more people are on the trail in the national parks that elsewhere. If you decide to use the restroom right on the side of the trail then you risk being seen. At least pay attention to your surroundings.
Once we got to the shelter, I set up my tent and ate dinner. As I was heading to my tent I could see a few deer in the woods close to me. PM said that they had just been near his tent too. He actually tried throwing things toward them to get them to run off. Realizing it wasn't going to do anything, I went number a few feet away from my tent and then got in my tent. It wasn't two minutes later that one of the deer was licking the ground where I have used the restroom. I thought about yelling at it to try and scare it off. But then I got visions of it betting scared and attacking my tent with me inside. I let it be, and eventually it ran off. They came back multiple times during the night and just walked around in the woods. At least it wasn't a bear.
PM was supposed to pick up some new shoes at the PO, but they were not there. He has had some rough times with getting stuff send to him through the post office.
After resupplying we started walking to the local outfitter. I stopped at a gas station half way there to buy some peach rings. The others followed. Next thing I know, a guy asks us if we need a ride anywhere. So four of us (no PM) rode in his truck the rest of the way to the outfitter. We all spent some time getting some items. I somehow figured out a way to spend more money than I needed to. After about an hour and a half there, we called one of the local "trail angels" to give us a ride to the trail. The four of us, with TW in the cab, rode to the trail. Samurai, SR, and I about froze sitting in the bed due to the wind and rain.
It was now early afternoon when we began to hike into the park. I think the plan was to hike about 15 miles. I got 6 miles in to the side trail to the first shelter first. I started to take out some food to snack on and tried to keep myself warm. It takes some adjustment to go from hiking to a dead stop and keeping warm, especially in a cold rain. The other three arrived a few minutes later. I could tell that they really didn't want to go on. I wanted too keep hiking, but I couldn't get the courage to argue against three others. Plus, it was cold and rainy. Dry clothes and a warm sleeping bag probably weren't a bad choice though. The shelter was almost full. The four of us were able to squeeze in on the second level even though I think it was really built for about two or three. I got pretty chilling that night in my summer bag. The shelter wasn't the best for blocking wind.
PM also showed up later that night. His shoes were sent to the outfitter instead of the post office. UPS will not do general deliveries to a post office. I guess they figured the package was for a hiker and figured the outfitter would be a good place to drop it off.
The 18th wasn't much better that the 17th. The day was long and the weather was overcast all day. I ran into Judy (the lady who gave us a ride into Waynesboro a few days earlier). Her and her husband Gene were back on the trail doing some more section hiking after going to Trail Days too. We spoke for a few minutes and then headed separate ways.
My legs and feet killed me all day. Taking a few days off had its toll. Plus, I lost some of my callouses (sp?) that I had built up on my pinkie toes. Hiking in wet shoes and over rocks caused blisters to start forming again. Not too fun.
Half way through the hike, I was coming down a hill toward Skyline Drive and saw a pale white butt sticking up in the air. I couldn't believe it. I was seeing a female using the restroom right on the trail for a second time. This time the lady had no idea I was there. I stopped, turned around, and as quietly as possible started to walk back up the hill. I then heard her yell to her group that she was done. That was my indication also to start hiking toward her. As I approached, she gave out a startled yell and said, "Oh my gosh, I was just using the restroom. That was perfect timing as I just finished." I played it off as if I didn't know and told her to enjoy her hike. I mean, what the heck was she thinking. Lots of people hike the trail and more people are on the trail in the national parks that elsewhere. If you decide to use the restroom right on the side of the trail then you risk being seen. At least pay attention to your surroundings.
Once we got to the shelter, I set up my tent and ate dinner. As I was heading to my tent I could see a few deer in the woods close to me. PM said that they had just been near his tent too. He actually tried throwing things toward them to get them to run off. Realizing it wasn't going to do anything, I went number a few feet away from my tent and then got in my tent. It wasn't two minutes later that one of the deer was licking the ground where I have used the restroom. I thought about yelling at it to try and scare it off. But then I got visions of it betting scared and attacking my tent with me inside. I let it be, and eventually it ran off. They came back multiple times during the night and just walked around in the woods. At least it wasn't a bear.
Monday, May 17, 2010
May 13 - 14.3 / 853.1
Overall the hike was pretty uneventful. TW, SR, Samurai, and I all were ready to get into Waynesboro for lunch. We stopped at the last shelter before town for a quick snack and that was it. It was also raining so that kept us motivated to keep hiking as fast as we could.
On the last stretch from the shelter we passed two section hikers. Ronnie was one of them and was born in Israel. He has lived in the states for a few years though. He has already thru hiked once and is back on trail just enjoying a few days.
When we got to the road you could hardly see in any direction since the haze/mist was so bad. We started to walk to the visitor center to find a ride into town. We were coming up on the parking lot when we saw a truck with "A HIKER" as the license plate. There was also a lady in the truck. SR started to approach the truck when the lady asked if we needed a ride. We couldn't turn it down. She said she was waiting on her husband. Her husband was the other section hiker we saw a few minutes earlier. Their names have slipped my. Sorry about that. They live in their RV now, but are from Hendersonville, TN. That is just right down the street from where my Nanny lives.
We rode into town with Ronnie and were dropped off at Ming's Chinese Buffet. It was like walking into Willy Wonka's land of candy. There was food everywhere, and it was really good. I don't even remember how many plates I got.
After dinner we were picked by Ken. Ken is a friend of Samurai's dad who said he would help out when Samurai came through Waynesboro. We went to Ken's and all took showers. Afterwards we all went Texas Steakhouse for dinner. Prime rib was on my plate. We watched the "The Men Who Stare at Goats." It was pretty good.
That was all for that day.
On the last stretch from the shelter we passed two section hikers. Ronnie was one of them and was born in Israel. He has lived in the states for a few years though. He has already thru hiked once and is back on trail just enjoying a few days.
When we got to the road you could hardly see in any direction since the haze/mist was so bad. We started to walk to the visitor center to find a ride into town. We were coming up on the parking lot when we saw a truck with "A HIKER" as the license plate. There was also a lady in the truck. SR started to approach the truck when the lady asked if we needed a ride. We couldn't turn it down. She said she was waiting on her husband. Her husband was the other section hiker we saw a few minutes earlier. Their names have slipped my. Sorry about that. They live in their RV now, but are from Hendersonville, TN. That is just right down the street from where my Nanny lives.
We rode into town with Ronnie and were dropped off at Ming's Chinese Buffet. It was like walking into Willy Wonka's land of candy. There was food everywhere, and it was really good. I don't even remember how many plates I got.
After dinner we were picked by Ken. Ken is a friend of Samurai's dad who said he would help out when Samurai came through Waynesboro. We went to Ken's and all took showers. Afterwards we all went Texas Steakhouse for dinner. Prime rib was on my plate. We watched the "The Men Who Stare at Goats." It was pretty good.
That was all for that day.
May 12 - 20.2 / 838.8
Waiting this many days before giving an entry may be a little tough. I'll see what all I can remember.
I woke up at the Priest Shelter and could actually see that morning. The rain had stopped, and the fog had lifted. We got a good laugh out of being able to see the privy from the shelter. We had no idea where it was the day before cause the fog and haze was so thick. Again, PM was the first to get up and out that morning. The rest of us finally got going and head down the Priest toward the Tye River. I'm still waiting for VA to get "flat" since that is all we heard about VA before we got there. The descent from the top of the Priest to the river was over 3,000 feet. We got a really nice view from a rock face as we were coming down. We had sun at our elevation, but a few hundred feet below one could see the tops of other mountains sticking up through the clouds. It looked like islands out at sea.
TW, Samurai, and I got down to the river at the same time. The weather from down there was different as we had made in below the clouds. It looked like it was going to rain at any second. We stopped and had a snack. A southbound section hiker passed us. He was equipped for a war. He had on some fatigues, a pot that could feet 10 people, and a huge Rambo knife...more like a sword.
From the river, the trail went straight back up 2,900 feet over Chimney Rocks and Three Ridges. I think the climb was pointless. The third of Three Ridges was the toughest. The blazes were not well defined on the rocks and trees. I stopped a few times debating if I was even going the right direction. At the top, there really wasn't even a good vista. I feel I should be rewarded after climbing to the top. I took a break at the top and then headed on toward Maupin Field Shelter for a late lunch.
PM was walking back to the trail as I was arriving. He said he was going to push on and hike 15.8 miles to the next shelter. I was eating when it started to sprinkle. I moved from a table and into the shelter. SR arrived and was followed by Samurai, TW, and eventually Sonic. We were all sitting in the shelter when we could hear thunder in the distance. I was just about to start hiking too. Next thing I know, we are sitting in the shelter for the next 3 or so hours waiting out a t-storm. This was the first time while on the trail I had to stop for lightning. We got some music going with an ipod. Some read while I refreshed my knowledge on wilderness first responder skills. I even gave the others some responses when they started asking what to do in certain situations.
We decided we would leave the shelter if the storm had passed by 5. Around 4:30, all the rain quit and the lightning and thunder had passed. We packed up our stuff and hiked another 6 miles to a spot just off the BRP. Just before camping there was a good vista which overlooked Waynesboro. We got a good view of another storm coming in with the sunset off to the side.
During the night I thought a bear was going after my food bag. It turned out to be Sonic trying to go to the restroom. He had lost his headlamp sometime during the night and was trying to find it with his cell phone light.
I woke up at the Priest Shelter and could actually see that morning. The rain had stopped, and the fog had lifted. We got a good laugh out of being able to see the privy from the shelter. We had no idea where it was the day before cause the fog and haze was so thick. Again, PM was the first to get up and out that morning. The rest of us finally got going and head down the Priest toward the Tye River. I'm still waiting for VA to get "flat" since that is all we heard about VA before we got there. The descent from the top of the Priest to the river was over 3,000 feet. We got a really nice view from a rock face as we were coming down. We had sun at our elevation, but a few hundred feet below one could see the tops of other mountains sticking up through the clouds. It looked like islands out at sea.
TW, Samurai, and I got down to the river at the same time. The weather from down there was different as we had made in below the clouds. It looked like it was going to rain at any second. We stopped and had a snack. A southbound section hiker passed us. He was equipped for a war. He had on some fatigues, a pot that could feet 10 people, and a huge Rambo knife...more like a sword.
From the river, the trail went straight back up 2,900 feet over Chimney Rocks and Three Ridges. I think the climb was pointless. The third of Three Ridges was the toughest. The blazes were not well defined on the rocks and trees. I stopped a few times debating if I was even going the right direction. At the top, there really wasn't even a good vista. I feel I should be rewarded after climbing to the top. I took a break at the top and then headed on toward Maupin Field Shelter for a late lunch.
PM was walking back to the trail as I was arriving. He said he was going to push on and hike 15.8 miles to the next shelter. I was eating when it started to sprinkle. I moved from a table and into the shelter. SR arrived and was followed by Samurai, TW, and eventually Sonic. We were all sitting in the shelter when we could hear thunder in the distance. I was just about to start hiking too. Next thing I know, we are sitting in the shelter for the next 3 or so hours waiting out a t-storm. This was the first time while on the trail I had to stop for lightning. We got some music going with an ipod. Some read while I refreshed my knowledge on wilderness first responder skills. I even gave the others some responses when they started asking what to do in certain situations.
We decided we would leave the shelter if the storm had passed by 5. Around 4:30, all the rain quit and the lightning and thunder had passed. We packed up our stuff and hiked another 6 miles to a spot just off the BRP. Just before camping there was a good vista which overlooked Waynesboro. We got a good view of another storm coming in with the sunset off to the side.
During the night I thought a bear was going after my food bag. It turned out to be Sonic trying to go to the restroom. He had lost his headlamp sometime during the night and was trying to find it with his cell phone light.
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
May 11 - 22.7 / 818.6
I know I'm not suppose to talk about the smell of others. Dang, Sonic smelled last night. He set up his tent beside me, and I swear he smelled like the privy. Maybe it was actually the privy. If so, it was perfect timing of him being right beside me.
The day started off with a little more history. We actually stayed in an area once inhabited by the Brown Mountain Creek Valley Community. The community was one of freed slaves that lived there from the time of the Civil War to about 1918. From the trail, I could see remnants of old stone walls and what looked like an old house or oven.
My plan was to get going this morning to beat out the rain, well lightning. I can hike in the rain all day, but lightning means no hiking and take shelter. I knew I had two balds (i.e. a mountain with no trees on top) within the first 3 hours and a good climb before that. PM was gone before I even got out of my tent. He leaves in about 15 minutes after waking up. I left with Samurai around 7:30. A few minutes later he stopped to remove layers. I kept hiking and caught up with Donner. It wasn't a few minutes later that it started to sprinkle. I stopped and put on my rain jacket and pack cover. I caught back up with Donner and that is when the rain got stronger. I stopped again to put on my gators and rain pants. Then came the balds. There was still not sight of lightning, and I hadn't heard thunder so I pushed on. I was crossing the first bald and about got knocked over by the wind. I had to walk sideways and lean into the wind. I was probably tilting a good 30 degrees. The wind was just the beginning. The rain was stinging my face and then turned to sleet for about 30 seconds. It was not a pleasant feeling.
Even though I was cold and wet, I felt good hiking today. I made it 15.9 miles to the shelter by 1ish. PM was there along with We'll See and three section hikers. I took off my pack and had lunch. Donner, Samurai, TW, and SR arrived shortly after. It was kind of funny to watch people trying to put on warm clothes, open wrappers, and use lighters to start their stoves with hands that were numb and fingers that didn't move.
Before I headed out, Donner left. He said his goodbyes to all of us as he was staying at a B&B tonight. He will get ahead of us over the weekend as we head off to trail days. I'm not sure if we will be able to catch back up with him.
I had a quick lunch and got moving again. I was getting too cold just sitting there. The rest of the day was cold and wet, but a fairly easy hike. It was 6.9 miles between the last two shelters. PM was there when I arrived. The other three came in between 5 and 20 minutes after me. The 5 of us had the shelter to ourselves. I was planning on tenting as my tent is a lot warmer than the shelter. However, since it was the 5 of us, we decided to all stay in the shelter. We put up SR's rain fly from his tarp across the shelter's opening. It is helping to block wind and any rain from being blown in. It was rather nice to have space to put on warm clothes and make dinner.
Sonic showed up and joined us too. All of us are warm and full. I think it will be an early night for most of us. Early as in before 9.
That's all I have for today. Thanks for keeping up with the blog, and I hope it's fun to read. I try to make it interesting without getting too repetitive.
Peace, BT
The day started off with a little more history. We actually stayed in an area once inhabited by the Brown Mountain Creek Valley Community. The community was one of freed slaves that lived there from the time of the Civil War to about 1918. From the trail, I could see remnants of old stone walls and what looked like an old house or oven.
My plan was to get going this morning to beat out the rain, well lightning. I can hike in the rain all day, but lightning means no hiking and take shelter. I knew I had two balds (i.e. a mountain with no trees on top) within the first 3 hours and a good climb before that. PM was gone before I even got out of my tent. He leaves in about 15 minutes after waking up. I left with Samurai around 7:30. A few minutes later he stopped to remove layers. I kept hiking and caught up with Donner. It wasn't a few minutes later that it started to sprinkle. I stopped and put on my rain jacket and pack cover. I caught back up with Donner and that is when the rain got stronger. I stopped again to put on my gators and rain pants. Then came the balds. There was still not sight of lightning, and I hadn't heard thunder so I pushed on. I was crossing the first bald and about got knocked over by the wind. I had to walk sideways and lean into the wind. I was probably tilting a good 30 degrees. The wind was just the beginning. The rain was stinging my face and then turned to sleet for about 30 seconds. It was not a pleasant feeling.
Even though I was cold and wet, I felt good hiking today. I made it 15.9 miles to the shelter by 1ish. PM was there along with We'll See and three section hikers. I took off my pack and had lunch. Donner, Samurai, TW, and SR arrived shortly after. It was kind of funny to watch people trying to put on warm clothes, open wrappers, and use lighters to start their stoves with hands that were numb and fingers that didn't move.
Before I headed out, Donner left. He said his goodbyes to all of us as he was staying at a B&B tonight. He will get ahead of us over the weekend as we head off to trail days. I'm not sure if we will be able to catch back up with him.
I had a quick lunch and got moving again. I was getting too cold just sitting there. The rest of the day was cold and wet, but a fairly easy hike. It was 6.9 miles between the last two shelters. PM was there when I arrived. The other three came in between 5 and 20 minutes after me. The 5 of us had the shelter to ourselves. I was planning on tenting as my tent is a lot warmer than the shelter. However, since it was the 5 of us, we decided to all stay in the shelter. We put up SR's rain fly from his tarp across the shelter's opening. It is helping to block wind and any rain from being blown in. It was rather nice to have space to put on warm clothes and make dinner.
Sonic showed up and joined us too. All of us are warm and full. I think it will be an early night for most of us. Early as in before 9.
That's all I have for today. Thanks for keeping up with the blog, and I hope it's fun to read. I try to make it interesting without getting too repetitive.
Peace, BT
May 9 - 3.9 / 777.6 and May 10 - 18.3 / 795.9
May 9...
Do you think you can guess what I did today? If you said hiking, then you would be correct to some degree. But, if you noticed the miles for today then you would see only 3.9. Before I tell you, I will tell you how my day started off. I got up with the rest of the "new" group (still not a complete group since we don't have DS, DM, SB, and SS) and began hiking around 7:30ish. The plan was to hike the 2.2 miles to US 501 and catch a hitch to Glasgow, VA for a resupply and breakfast. Then get back on the trail and hike some 10 or so miles to the second shelter in. Well, we made it to the road in about 30 minutes as it was a pretty flat walk and all of us wanted breakfast.
We did cross the James River Foot Bridge right before the road. As one can guess, it is a foot bridge over the James River. However, you might not know that it is the longest foot-use-only bridge on the AT. Ok, moving on. We had heard it was a pretty easy hitch. We watched about 10 cars fly past in the first 5 minutes and realized it probably was going to be a longer wait than normal. We noticed a suburban was in the parking lot and joked how nice it would be if that person just gave us a ride. Finally a guy stopped, but only had room for one. We waited another hour and 15 minutes with no results. I tried all methods: the normal thumbs up, the bandanna that says "HIKER TO TOWN," the polite wave, the just sit by my pack and look miserable, and the trucker honk you horn. That is when we saw 4 elementary aged kids come out of the woods. Following the kids were two men. I knew this might be our shot. They walked up to the parking lot, and I asked if they had room to give some thru hikers a ride to town. The men had a short personal discussion and then said they would. We jumped up and down. Ok, we didn't, but we were happy and still hungry. One man waiting with the boys while the other drove us into town. I gave him my blog and meant to get his name too. If you are reading this, thanks again. Feel free to leave a commit about us smelly hikers.
Once in town we realized their wasn't much. The book makes it sound like everything is together. However, the grocery and Dollar General are two miles from the cafe. We resupplied at the Dollar General. As all of us still wanted a cooked breakfast, we decided to start walking the two miles to the cafe. We were a few hundred yards down the road when a small Subaru pulled over. I was actually talking to Michelle at the time. I got her off the phone as quick as possible and ran down the road to jump in with the other 4. I never got the ladies name, but she was on her way to church. She dropped us off at the Country Cafe. Before leaving, she asked if we wanted tickets to the Natural Bridge. All she said was that it was just right down the road and one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the New World. We gave it a laugh and took the tickets. She told us she would stop by after church, with her son, to see if we were still there. If so, she would give us a ride.
We all ate breakfast. I had a western omelet, home fries, and coffee. I followed it up with a strawberry milk shake. We walked outside and started to discuss if the lady had driven by or not. Almost instantly, a truck pulled in the parking lot. A guy rolled down his window and said, "Y'all must be the hikers I am to pick up." We looked at each other and decided we were going to the Natural Bridge.
So, to answer my question earlier, we spent the rest of the day being tourist. We saw the Natural Bridge which is a rock bridge about 90 feet high. A young George Washington even surveyed the land back in the day. One can even see his initials on the rock wall. We visited an Indian village based on the indians who used to live in the area. At the village, one of the historians told some other tourist we were hiking the AT. They all gave off some ahhhs. We thought about going to stand behind some rope and be an attraction our self. We walked past the village to a waterfall. We were all a little disappointed in it. We were also upset cause we all wanted to go play in the creek. Normally we don't have restrictions in doing so, but we figured we might get in trouble if we tried it. We also realized that we couldn't just go behind a tree to use the restroom. This tourist trap actually had modern day restrooms which I think I forgot existed. We also walked around the toy museum and toured the on-site wax museum. I spoke with a young couple who asked about the trail. I enjoy answering questions. I feel people know so little about it or how we get by. After all was said and done, I think it was about 3 in the afternoon.
Oh, Samurai and PM got civil hats from the gift shop. No lie, someone actually asked them if they were actors doing a Civil War reenactment. They were lost for words.
It took us a little bit, but we ended up getting two hitches back to the Cafe. We couldn't get on the trail on an empty stomach. We all ate, and again waited for some time for a hitch back to the trail which was about 6 miles away. We got our hitch and got back on the trail around 6:30.
I was certain it was 4 miles from the road to the shelter. I turned out to only be 1.7. We got to the shelter still on our tourist high. Also at the shelter were We'll See and Donner. They had caught up from Troutville/Daleville.
Before going to bed, three deer walked around the camp area. PM tried to go pet one, but it started to grunt at him. That is when he started to listen to us in that it wasn't a good idea to begin with. The deer returned around midnight. For the rest of the night I could hear them walking by my tent and grunting. I thought about turning on my head lamp, but I didn't want to turn on and see them like two feet in front of me.
Not a lot of hiking, but a lot of impromptu fun. Happy Mother's Day to the mom's, grandmothers, and mom's to be.
May 10...
This morning was freezing cold. I was ok until I got out of my tent. My hands didn't want to work. The morning began with a 2,300 foot climb. Not too fun, but it warmed me up. At the top of Bluff Mountain, I could see the ridge we had been walking on the few days before as well as the radar tower we passed on the 8th. Also on top was a memorial to four year old Ottie Cline Powell. In 1890, Ottie went to go get firewood for his school house and never returned. He was found on the mountain some 7 miles from the school.
After the mountain, we had lunch along the Blue Ridge Parkway. We pretty much follow the BRP (also Skyline Drive) for nearly 200 miles. As we only planned 18 miles for the day, we took a 2.5 hour lunch break relaxing in the sun. I remember when 18 miles were long days. Now they seem like nothing.
We saw a group of girls from a local outdoor boarding school. They couldn't believe it when TW told them she had been hiking for almost two months and was doing 18 miles today. They did a total of 24 miles over 3 days and were all excited to be done and to the road.
SR also scored some trail magic from some Canadians. They didn't offer me anything after I answered their questions for about 10 minutes. Maybe he just looks more malnurised and they felt bad since he was at the end of our group. There has been a lot in the shelter trail logs about trail magic. However, I have missed out lately.
The rest of the day was an easy stroll, and we took our time. We made it to the shelter around 5. Prophet, Yanni, and Sonic all showed up too. Sonic has recovered from his giardia. Prophet and Yanni have actually been hiking on the BRP for the last 30 miles and not on the AT. They eaten at restaurants along the way. I guess it is cool that they did that, but how can they say they've hiked the entire AT? To each his own, I guess.
I wrapping up, a few fighter jets have been flying over us tonight. It is too cloudy to see them. They seem to be quite low and are very loud. They make me think about my brother who flies F-16's in the USAF. I will see him getting married here in a few weeks. I thank him for what he does and am looking forward to seeing him. As I finish, take the time to thank a service member when you pass by. It might not seem like a lot, but I'm willing to bet it does.
Night, friends.
Do you think you can guess what I did today? If you said hiking, then you would be correct to some degree. But, if you noticed the miles for today then you would see only 3.9. Before I tell you, I will tell you how my day started off. I got up with the rest of the "new" group (still not a complete group since we don't have DS, DM, SB, and SS) and began hiking around 7:30ish. The plan was to hike the 2.2 miles to US 501 and catch a hitch to Glasgow, VA for a resupply and breakfast. Then get back on the trail and hike some 10 or so miles to the second shelter in. Well, we made it to the road in about 30 minutes as it was a pretty flat walk and all of us wanted breakfast.
We did cross the James River Foot Bridge right before the road. As one can guess, it is a foot bridge over the James River. However, you might not know that it is the longest foot-use-only bridge on the AT. Ok, moving on. We had heard it was a pretty easy hitch. We watched about 10 cars fly past in the first 5 minutes and realized it probably was going to be a longer wait than normal. We noticed a suburban was in the parking lot and joked how nice it would be if that person just gave us a ride. Finally a guy stopped, but only had room for one. We waited another hour and 15 minutes with no results. I tried all methods: the normal thumbs up, the bandanna that says "HIKER TO TOWN," the polite wave, the just sit by my pack and look miserable, and the trucker honk you horn. That is when we saw 4 elementary aged kids come out of the woods. Following the kids were two men. I knew this might be our shot. They walked up to the parking lot, and I asked if they had room to give some thru hikers a ride to town. The men had a short personal discussion and then said they would. We jumped up and down. Ok, we didn't, but we were happy and still hungry. One man waiting with the boys while the other drove us into town. I gave him my blog and meant to get his name too. If you are reading this, thanks again. Feel free to leave a commit about us smelly hikers.
Once in town we realized their wasn't much. The book makes it sound like everything is together. However, the grocery and Dollar General are two miles from the cafe. We resupplied at the Dollar General. As all of us still wanted a cooked breakfast, we decided to start walking the two miles to the cafe. We were a few hundred yards down the road when a small Subaru pulled over. I was actually talking to Michelle at the time. I got her off the phone as quick as possible and ran down the road to jump in with the other 4. I never got the ladies name, but she was on her way to church. She dropped us off at the Country Cafe. Before leaving, she asked if we wanted tickets to the Natural Bridge. All she said was that it was just right down the road and one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the New World. We gave it a laugh and took the tickets. She told us she would stop by after church, with her son, to see if we were still there. If so, she would give us a ride.
We all ate breakfast. I had a western omelet, home fries, and coffee. I followed it up with a strawberry milk shake. We walked outside and started to discuss if the lady had driven by or not. Almost instantly, a truck pulled in the parking lot. A guy rolled down his window and said, "Y'all must be the hikers I am to pick up." We looked at each other and decided we were going to the Natural Bridge.
So, to answer my question earlier, we spent the rest of the day being tourist. We saw the Natural Bridge which is a rock bridge about 90 feet high. A young George Washington even surveyed the land back in the day. One can even see his initials on the rock wall. We visited an Indian village based on the indians who used to live in the area. At the village, one of the historians told some other tourist we were hiking the AT. They all gave off some ahhhs. We thought about going to stand behind some rope and be an attraction our self. We walked past the village to a waterfall. We were all a little disappointed in it. We were also upset cause we all wanted to go play in the creek. Normally we don't have restrictions in doing so, but we figured we might get in trouble if we tried it. We also realized that we couldn't just go behind a tree to use the restroom. This tourist trap actually had modern day restrooms which I think I forgot existed. We also walked around the toy museum and toured the on-site wax museum. I spoke with a young couple who asked about the trail. I enjoy answering questions. I feel people know so little about it or how we get by. After all was said and done, I think it was about 3 in the afternoon.
Oh, Samurai and PM got civil hats from the gift shop. No lie, someone actually asked them if they were actors doing a Civil War reenactment. They were lost for words.
It took us a little bit, but we ended up getting two hitches back to the Cafe. We couldn't get on the trail on an empty stomach. We all ate, and again waited for some time for a hitch back to the trail which was about 6 miles away. We got our hitch and got back on the trail around 6:30.
I was certain it was 4 miles from the road to the shelter. I turned out to only be 1.7. We got to the shelter still on our tourist high. Also at the shelter were We'll See and Donner. They had caught up from Troutville/Daleville.
Before going to bed, three deer walked around the camp area. PM tried to go pet one, but it started to grunt at him. That is when he started to listen to us in that it wasn't a good idea to begin with. The deer returned around midnight. For the rest of the night I could hear them walking by my tent and grunting. I thought about turning on my head lamp, but I didn't want to turn on and see them like two feet in front of me.
Not a lot of hiking, but a lot of impromptu fun. Happy Mother's Day to the mom's, grandmothers, and mom's to be.
May 10...
This morning was freezing cold. I was ok until I got out of my tent. My hands didn't want to work. The morning began with a 2,300 foot climb. Not too fun, but it warmed me up. At the top of Bluff Mountain, I could see the ridge we had been walking on the few days before as well as the radar tower we passed on the 8th. Also on top was a memorial to four year old Ottie Cline Powell. In 1890, Ottie went to go get firewood for his school house and never returned. He was found on the mountain some 7 miles from the school.
After the mountain, we had lunch along the Blue Ridge Parkway. We pretty much follow the BRP (also Skyline Drive) for nearly 200 miles. As we only planned 18 miles for the day, we took a 2.5 hour lunch break relaxing in the sun. I remember when 18 miles were long days. Now they seem like nothing.
We saw a group of girls from a local outdoor boarding school. They couldn't believe it when TW told them she had been hiking for almost two months and was doing 18 miles today. They did a total of 24 miles over 3 days and were all excited to be done and to the road.
SR also scored some trail magic from some Canadians. They didn't offer me anything after I answered their questions for about 10 minutes. Maybe he just looks more malnurised and they felt bad since he was at the end of our group. There has been a lot in the shelter trail logs about trail magic. However, I have missed out lately.
The rest of the day was an easy stroll, and we took our time. We made it to the shelter around 5. Prophet, Yanni, and Sonic all showed up too. Sonic has recovered from his giardia. Prophet and Yanni have actually been hiking on the BRP for the last 30 miles and not on the AT. They eaten at restaurants along the way. I guess it is cool that they did that, but how can they say they've hiked the entire AT? To each his own, I guess.
I wrapping up, a few fighter jets have been flying over us tonight. It is too cloudy to see them. They seem to be quite low and are very loud. They make me think about my brother who flies F-16's in the USAF. I will see him getting married here in a few weeks. I thank him for what he does and am looking forward to seeing him. As I finish, take the time to thank a service member when you pass by. It might not seem like a lot, but I'm willing to bet it does.
Night, friends.
Sunday, May 9, 2010
May 7 - 27.0 / 751.1 and May 8 - 22.6 / 773.7
Normally I go to Annual Recreation Workshop (ARW) during this time of the year. I had even lined up a ride with Kris aka Bubba who was in Roanoke for his brother's wedding the weekend preceding the conference. ARW is where I go to learn all my games and what not. This year I had even made the cut to take Roger and Brian's stained glass window class. That is hard to pass up. However, after some thought over the last few weeks and some consultation, I decided to pass on ARW this year and attend Trail Days in Damascus. There will always be ARW next year, and I feel that if I go to Trail Days, then I should go the year I hike the trail. Plus, we have heard rumors that they might be moving Trail Days out of the town. One problem with doing TDs this year is that I am 200 plus miles north of the town. They say hikers get hitches all along the trail to go, but I don't want to risk that. So yesterday, I called the outfitter in Waynesboro to see if they knew anyone giving rides. They provided two names. I called the first and was told to give someone by the trail name "Cricket" a call. I called cricket and left a message. She returned my call later in the day saying she could give up to 4 hikers a ride. That worked out perfectly as TW, SR, Samurai, and I all plan on going. Now, here is the problem. Up until today, PM was not planning on going. Then he changed his mind to go. I am glad he is going, but that changes the riding situation. Cricket can only take 4 at the most, and I am not going to leave one person alone to find a ride. So, we are going to make some more calls to see what we can find. If nothing, I am riding with Cricket Friday morning. I am also trying to talk Michelle into coming up. If anyone else would like to come, then let me know and maybe yall could carpool. Also, for anyone related to Dark Star, tell him to get a ride there. He is worried about catching up with us. However, I am about to leave trail for a week so I will be trying to catch up with him.
Aside from trying to figure out TDs, not too much has stood out over the last two days. We have been doing well with getting up early and breaking down camp. I think 7:30 has been the latest we have left over the last two days. Getting up earlier helps to knock out miles before lunch while it is still cool temps. Yesterday we did 13 and today we did 10 before lunch.
Last night we stayed at a really neat shelter, Bryant Ridge. The shelter is three stories and sleeps around 20. It was right in the bend of the creek too. That was nice for water, but it meant bugs. Trying to eat and sleep was miserable. I still have my winter bag so I started off the evening on top of it. I got to sleep but woke up from being eaten alive. So I got in my bag to only wake up a few minutes later covered in sweat. I went back and forth all night. I have ordered a summer bag, but I had ut shipped to Damascus in order to pick it up next weekend.
Before the shelter, we stopped to swim in Jennings Creek. It was refreshing. Skyrocket made a rope swing out if his bear bag rope. Don't worry, I got a video of it.
This morning we were faced with a pretty big ascent. It was 2,000 feet in a few miles. At the top was Apple Orchard Mtn. The mtn was home to an Air Force radar base. All the barracks and support buildings have been removed, but the radar and a few smaller buildings remain. It definitely looked like the radar was being used. However, I don't know if it was for military or if it has been replaced with a weather radar such as doppler.
After the summit, I got to go under The Guillotine. It is a boulder stuck between two rock formations, and the trail goes under it. To be honest, I was not too impressed. I figured it was going to be a lot larger. To got a quick pic and moved on.
Tonight, TW, SR, PM, Samurai, and myself are staying at Matts Creek Shelter. There is another lady here who has the shelter to herself. All of us are in tents or hammocks to avoid the bugs. We are about two miles shy of the James River Foot Bridge. It is the longest foot use only bridge on the AT. We plan to get up early and get a hitch into town. We still haven't decided how quickly we want to get to Waynesboro. The original plan was to get there by Wednesday. However, since Cricket isn't leaving until Friday, we may take an extra day to get there. Samurai is also trying to get us hooked up with a place to stay.
Overall, my body is doing well. My feet are holding up. I am still waiting for my big toe nail to fall off. I stumped it weeks ago. It has been black and blue ever sense, but no sign of going anywhere. Also, a few days ago I noticed that my right butt check itched and was a little swollen. I don't know if I was bit, stung, had a bought with poison ivy, got another case of shingles (yes, I have had it already before), or something else. It bothers me every once in a while. If it is still swollen next week then I will get it checked out during TDs.
Richie, I got your questions. I am waiting to see if others want to send in anything for this round of Q&A.
Caroline and Mrs. Teresa, I am glad I am able to be a part of your curriculum. Please keep me updated with how it is going and let me know how I might be able to add to what is already going on. Caroline, no need to use those other blogs. You know mine is the only cool one. I'm kidding. If possible, let me know the location and names of the others hiking.
That's all I got for now. I probably forgot something, but it will give me a starting point for another blog.
Again, no service in VA so this will get posted a day or two later.
Keep it real!
Aside from trying to figure out TDs, not too much has stood out over the last two days. We have been doing well with getting up early and breaking down camp. I think 7:30 has been the latest we have left over the last two days. Getting up earlier helps to knock out miles before lunch while it is still cool temps. Yesterday we did 13 and today we did 10 before lunch.
Last night we stayed at a really neat shelter, Bryant Ridge. The shelter is three stories and sleeps around 20. It was right in the bend of the creek too. That was nice for water, but it meant bugs. Trying to eat and sleep was miserable. I still have my winter bag so I started off the evening on top of it. I got to sleep but woke up from being eaten alive. So I got in my bag to only wake up a few minutes later covered in sweat. I went back and forth all night. I have ordered a summer bag, but I had ut shipped to Damascus in order to pick it up next weekend.
Before the shelter, we stopped to swim in Jennings Creek. It was refreshing. Skyrocket made a rope swing out if his bear bag rope. Don't worry, I got a video of it.
This morning we were faced with a pretty big ascent. It was 2,000 feet in a few miles. At the top was Apple Orchard Mtn. The mtn was home to an Air Force radar base. All the barracks and support buildings have been removed, but the radar and a few smaller buildings remain. It definitely looked like the radar was being used. However, I don't know if it was for military or if it has been replaced with a weather radar such as doppler.
After the summit, I got to go under The Guillotine. It is a boulder stuck between two rock formations, and the trail goes under it. To be honest, I was not too impressed. I figured it was going to be a lot larger. To got a quick pic and moved on.
Tonight, TW, SR, PM, Samurai, and myself are staying at Matts Creek Shelter. There is another lady here who has the shelter to herself. All of us are in tents or hammocks to avoid the bugs. We are about two miles shy of the James River Foot Bridge. It is the longest foot use only bridge on the AT. We plan to get up early and get a hitch into town. We still haven't decided how quickly we want to get to Waynesboro. The original plan was to get there by Wednesday. However, since Cricket isn't leaving until Friday, we may take an extra day to get there. Samurai is also trying to get us hooked up with a place to stay.
Overall, my body is doing well. My feet are holding up. I am still waiting for my big toe nail to fall off. I stumped it weeks ago. It has been black and blue ever sense, but no sign of going anywhere. Also, a few days ago I noticed that my right butt check itched and was a little swollen. I don't know if I was bit, stung, had a bought with poison ivy, got another case of shingles (yes, I have had it already before), or something else. It bothers me every once in a while. If it is still swollen next week then I will get it checked out during TDs.
Richie, I got your questions. I am waiting to see if others want to send in anything for this round of Q&A.
Caroline and Mrs. Teresa, I am glad I am able to be a part of your curriculum. Please keep me updated with how it is going and let me know how I might be able to add to what is already going on. Caroline, no need to use those other blogs. You know mine is the only cool one. I'm kidding. If possible, let me know the location and names of the others hiking.
That's all I got for now. I probably forgot something, but it will give me a starting point for another blog.
Again, no service in VA so this will get posted a day or two later.
Keep it real!
Thursday, May 6, 2010
May 4 - 17.0 / 703.7, May 5 - 15.4 / 719.1, and May 6 - 5.0 / 724.1
Lions, tigers, and BEARS, oh my! I had already typed up the Q&A so I figured I would leave my response the way it was. I was hiking along a creek when all of a sudden I heard an animal running through some leaves. Normally, the noise is just from a squirrel, bird, or lizard (all are loud), but when I looked over this time I saw a bear running up a mountain about 50 yards away. I was unable to tell if it was a baby or a young adult. All I could really see was its rump. It ran for about 20 yards, stopped, looked at me, and then took off again. I had no chance to even pull out my camera as I saw it and it ran away into some brush in about 2 seconds. So I have now seen a bear. I expect to see more, perhaps in the Shenandoah National Park. The SNP has approximately one bear for every square mile. I will try to get a video or picture next time too. Well depending on how scared I get.
I forgot to mention two things from May 3rd. First, I crossed a significant continental divide when I hiked over Sinking Creek Mountain. Water flowing down the western side drains into the Mississippi River and eventually the Gulf while the eastern side drains into the James River and eventually into the Atlantic. Secondly, I stopped and observed the Audie Murphy Monument. Murphy was the most decorated American soldier of WWII. He is probably most known for single-handedly capturing a large number of German soldiers.
I planned to do a large number of miles on the 4th. I was thinking Dragons Tooth was a lot closer to the shelter. However, after hiking for an hour and a half I had not seen anything too exciting to be given a name. Then I came to a sign stating it was ahead on a blue blazed trail. It ended up being about 2 miles further up the trail then I thought. I climbed up the rocks indicating Dragons Tooth and got a really cool view. The climb down DT and even down the mountain was intense. It was some good size boulders. I guess it was just a preview of the Whites in New Hampshire.
TW and I ended up hiking for most of the morning and afternoon relatively close to each other. She caught up to me when I was about to cross the road heading to Catawba. The plan was to skip Catawba and hike a mile further to a shelter for lunch. As we started to cross the trail head parking lot and road, we heard some ask if we wanted to go to town. I looked over and it was Prime Minister in a rusted out pick up. TW and I discussed quickly and decided we would go to town only if the guy could give us a hitch back out. He said he would so the three of us rode a few miles into town. I bought a turkey sandwich and a few drinks from the gas station. TW got a few drinks and snacks and even got some stuff for her brother for when he arrived at the shelter. Frank Haranzo was the gentleman that gave us a ride. Something impressed me with Frank as soon as I started to speak with him while waiting for PM to get back to the truck. It was one of those feelings of knowing this guy was genuine and I hadn't even known him for 5 minutes. Frank was probably in his 70's, but gave much of his time to help maintain the trail around Catawba. As Frank dropped us back of at the trail head, he mentioned the shelter that we were planning to eat lunch at was a memorial to his son. Not really offering more to the story, we said our goodbyes to Frank and headed on. I'm telling you, something good struck me about Frank. We got to the shelter. In the shelter was a plaque saying the shelter was dedicated to John Haranzo. There was also a new paper article on one of the walls. The article gave the story of John and how he ended up taking his own life. Frank wanted to give back to the trail that his son had thru hiked years ago. So he called up the ATC and said he wanted to do something in honor of his son. They told him there was a dilapidated boy scout shelter along the trail right near Frank's home. So Frank donated a few thousand dollars to repair the shelter. Now he goes out there a few times a week to maintain the shelter and the trail around it. The day we were out there, he had cleared out the nearby spring so hikers would have drinking water. Frank doesn't have to do that, but he does in order to keep the dream alive for others to have the experience his son had. It was a true honor to meet him that day.
PM, TW, and I all ate lunch at Johns Creek Shelter. We waited for the others to come in. Eventually Donner and Samurai arrived. We weren't sure about SR and even thought he might have passed us while we were in town. We were about to head out when he arrived. Turned out he left the shelter, walked the .3 miles back to the trail, but turned left instead of right. He hiked about a mile before he realized he had turned the wrong way. He was glad to see us and even happier about the soft drink his sister had bought for him. We were about to start hiking again with 10 or so miles left on the agenda. Donner said he had a better idea in that we should only hike a few more miles to McAfee Knob to catch the sunset. We all agreed that was perfect. So we gathered our stuff and hiked the 2.5 or so miles up to the top. We sat up there for about 4 hours, ate dinner there, and watched the sunset. It was great.
McAfee Knob overlooks middle VA and is probably the place where the most pictures are taken on the trail other than Springer and Katahdin. There is a rock overhang. Hikers sit on the edge of the rock. Don't worry, I got my picture made and will get it posted. (A side note, I have sent a memory card off as I am going to get help in posting pictures. I usually don't have the time or a computer available when I get to a town.)
We had 15.4 miles to go to get from Campbell Shelter to Troutville/Daleville, VA. Somehow PM, Samurai, Donner, TW, SR, and I were all out hiking by 7 am. I rolled into town by 12:30. Only if I could hike 15 miles everyday by lunch time. We got some more good views during the day. We crossed Tinker Cliffs which gave us a view back toward McAfee Knob. Samurai and I were about a mile from town when I saw a girl walking southbound on the trail. I asked how she was doing. She said well and also told me Wazi said hello. Wazi and I have a mutual friend, Margaret. Wazi started a few days after me, but passed me before the Smokies. He has been about 3 to 5 days ahead of me. I told he thanks and kept walking. Then it hit me, how does this random girl walking the trail not only know Wazi, knows I know Wazi, and knows to tell me without me even saying my real or trail name? Perplexed, I stopped turned around and asked, "Do I know you?" She turns around and says, "Yeah, I am Mike's girlfriend." This is the Mike I hiked with for a few weeks and goes by Super Mike or Speed Stick. He ended up slowing down to meet his parents in Damascus. Dark Star should be with him too. Anyway, I met Ashley (his gf which already goes by the trail name Apple Pie) back when she visited Mike in Hot Springs, NC. She is now hiking south to meet Mike. Once, they meet up, she will start hiking north and join him for the duration of his hike. She had also met Wazi the night before and I guess my name came up. I'm becoming a legend out here.
Samurai and I hiked on to town to the Pizza Hut where we all decided we would meet. PM and SR were already there. Eventually, TW and Donner arrived. We all had lunch and went and got rooms at the Howard Johnson across the street. It was SR, TW, Samurai, and I in one and Donner and PM in another. The afternoon was spent sitting around and walking down the street to the local outfitter. Later in the evening, all 6 of us went across the street to a Mexican joint to celebrate Cinco de Mayo. It took over 4 hours to get a table and get our food. Luckily, we didn't have to be anywhere.
Today, we washed close, ate at Cracker Barrel, and resupplied at Kroger. All left town except for Donner who decided to rest his feet one more night. The plan was to leave by 3 and hike 11 miles. But as always, the vortex to town kept us there until 5. We got 5 miles in to the first shelter.
The plan is to make it to Waynesboro by next Wed night. We will then try to hitch 200 miles back to Damascus for Trail Days. If anyone might know of someone who could give a few hikers a ride, then please let me know.
Also, the latest on SB and DM is that they are still hiking. They ended up going back into Pearisburg to rest and gather their feelings about the trail. I definitely don't want them to give up on it. There are days when we all feel down. However, we have to keep strong and continue the push onward.
Have a wonderful evening. Let's all be a little like Frank H and pay it forward.
BowTie
I forgot to mention two things from May 3rd. First, I crossed a significant continental divide when I hiked over Sinking Creek Mountain. Water flowing down the western side drains into the Mississippi River and eventually the Gulf while the eastern side drains into the James River and eventually into the Atlantic. Secondly, I stopped and observed the Audie Murphy Monument. Murphy was the most decorated American soldier of WWII. He is probably most known for single-handedly capturing a large number of German soldiers.
I planned to do a large number of miles on the 4th. I was thinking Dragons Tooth was a lot closer to the shelter. However, after hiking for an hour and a half I had not seen anything too exciting to be given a name. Then I came to a sign stating it was ahead on a blue blazed trail. It ended up being about 2 miles further up the trail then I thought. I climbed up the rocks indicating Dragons Tooth and got a really cool view. The climb down DT and even down the mountain was intense. It was some good size boulders. I guess it was just a preview of the Whites in New Hampshire.
TW and I ended up hiking for most of the morning and afternoon relatively close to each other. She caught up to me when I was about to cross the road heading to Catawba. The plan was to skip Catawba and hike a mile further to a shelter for lunch. As we started to cross the trail head parking lot and road, we heard some ask if we wanted to go to town. I looked over and it was Prime Minister in a rusted out pick up. TW and I discussed quickly and decided we would go to town only if the guy could give us a hitch back out. He said he would so the three of us rode a few miles into town. I bought a turkey sandwich and a few drinks from the gas station. TW got a few drinks and snacks and even got some stuff for her brother for when he arrived at the shelter. Frank Haranzo was the gentleman that gave us a ride. Something impressed me with Frank as soon as I started to speak with him while waiting for PM to get back to the truck. It was one of those feelings of knowing this guy was genuine and I hadn't even known him for 5 minutes. Frank was probably in his 70's, but gave much of his time to help maintain the trail around Catawba. As Frank dropped us back of at the trail head, he mentioned the shelter that we were planning to eat lunch at was a memorial to his son. Not really offering more to the story, we said our goodbyes to Frank and headed on. I'm telling you, something good struck me about Frank. We got to the shelter. In the shelter was a plaque saying the shelter was dedicated to John Haranzo. There was also a new paper article on one of the walls. The article gave the story of John and how he ended up taking his own life. Frank wanted to give back to the trail that his son had thru hiked years ago. So he called up the ATC and said he wanted to do something in honor of his son. They told him there was a dilapidated boy scout shelter along the trail right near Frank's home. So Frank donated a few thousand dollars to repair the shelter. Now he goes out there a few times a week to maintain the shelter and the trail around it. The day we were out there, he had cleared out the nearby spring so hikers would have drinking water. Frank doesn't have to do that, but he does in order to keep the dream alive for others to have the experience his son had. It was a true honor to meet him that day.
PM, TW, and I all ate lunch at Johns Creek Shelter. We waited for the others to come in. Eventually Donner and Samurai arrived. We weren't sure about SR and even thought he might have passed us while we were in town. We were about to head out when he arrived. Turned out he left the shelter, walked the .3 miles back to the trail, but turned left instead of right. He hiked about a mile before he realized he had turned the wrong way. He was glad to see us and even happier about the soft drink his sister had bought for him. We were about to start hiking again with 10 or so miles left on the agenda. Donner said he had a better idea in that we should only hike a few more miles to McAfee Knob to catch the sunset. We all agreed that was perfect. So we gathered our stuff and hiked the 2.5 or so miles up to the top. We sat up there for about 4 hours, ate dinner there, and watched the sunset. It was great.
McAfee Knob overlooks middle VA and is probably the place where the most pictures are taken on the trail other than Springer and Katahdin. There is a rock overhang. Hikers sit on the edge of the rock. Don't worry, I got my picture made and will get it posted. (A side note, I have sent a memory card off as I am going to get help in posting pictures. I usually don't have the time or a computer available when I get to a town.)
We had 15.4 miles to go to get from Campbell Shelter to Troutville/Daleville, VA. Somehow PM, Samurai, Donner, TW, SR, and I were all out hiking by 7 am. I rolled into town by 12:30. Only if I could hike 15 miles everyday by lunch time. We got some more good views during the day. We crossed Tinker Cliffs which gave us a view back toward McAfee Knob. Samurai and I were about a mile from town when I saw a girl walking southbound on the trail. I asked how she was doing. She said well and also told me Wazi said hello. Wazi and I have a mutual friend, Margaret. Wazi started a few days after me, but passed me before the Smokies. He has been about 3 to 5 days ahead of me. I told he thanks and kept walking. Then it hit me, how does this random girl walking the trail not only know Wazi, knows I know Wazi, and knows to tell me without me even saying my real or trail name? Perplexed, I stopped turned around and asked, "Do I know you?" She turns around and says, "Yeah, I am Mike's girlfriend." This is the Mike I hiked with for a few weeks and goes by Super Mike or Speed Stick. He ended up slowing down to meet his parents in Damascus. Dark Star should be with him too. Anyway, I met Ashley (his gf which already goes by the trail name Apple Pie) back when she visited Mike in Hot Springs, NC. She is now hiking south to meet Mike. Once, they meet up, she will start hiking north and join him for the duration of his hike. She had also met Wazi the night before and I guess my name came up. I'm becoming a legend out here.
Samurai and I hiked on to town to the Pizza Hut where we all decided we would meet. PM and SR were already there. Eventually, TW and Donner arrived. We all had lunch and went and got rooms at the Howard Johnson across the street. It was SR, TW, Samurai, and I in one and Donner and PM in another. The afternoon was spent sitting around and walking down the street to the local outfitter. Later in the evening, all 6 of us went across the street to a Mexican joint to celebrate Cinco de Mayo. It took over 4 hours to get a table and get our food. Luckily, we didn't have to be anywhere.
Today, we washed close, ate at Cracker Barrel, and resupplied at Kroger. All left town except for Donner who decided to rest his feet one more night. The plan was to leave by 3 and hike 11 miles. But as always, the vortex to town kept us there until 5. We got 5 miles in to the first shelter.
The plan is to make it to Waynesboro by next Wed night. We will then try to hitch 200 miles back to Damascus for Trail Days. If anyone might know of someone who could give a few hikers a ride, then please let me know.
Also, the latest on SB and DM is that they are still hiking. They ended up going back into Pearisburg to rest and gather their feelings about the trail. I definitely don't want them to give up on it. There are days when we all feel down. However, we have to keep strong and continue the push onward.
Have a wonderful evening. Let's all be a little like Frank H and pay it forward.
BowTie
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
May 2 & 3 - 18.5 / 664.2 & 22.5 / 686.7
South Carolina Gov. Mark Sanford had a brilliant idea when he said that he was hiking the Appalachian Trail and therefore could not be reach via cell. (Disclaimer - In no way am I condoning his actions of an affair.) If he really wanted to get away all he had to do is walk in Virginia. I swear this state does not have cell service yet. The grad students I met the other night said the western part of Virginia does not have cell service and a lot of the area doesn't even have radio stations. I will say though, the true cell phone battle has been fought and won by Verizon. Verizon puts AT&T to shame. All the AT&T folks have complained about not getting cell service since we started. I know they didn't get service in Erwin and Damascus either. Those are towns and not even the trail.
Aside from a lack of cell service, I am still hiking. I am going to combine the last two days because I was too tired to write anything last night.
May 2...
Yesterday morning I woke up, made breakfast, and finished getting my stuff packed. I didn't see SB or DM that whole time. As the rest of us left the shelter area, we walked past their tent, and they were still in it. It was almost 9 too. We made sure they were awake and told them we were heading out. We figured they would catch up later in the day.
Overall the hiking was fairly the same of ridge walking over rocks. I can't wait to see PA which is known for rocks. Throughout the day I kept passing people from Canada. Turns out it is an outdoor recreation class that has traveled down here to hike a few days. Part of the class is planning a trip and then following through with it at the end of the semester. We passed most of them around Wind Rock, but we still stopped and answered a fair share of questions. Around 2, the three of us as well as TP, Samurai, and Donner made it to War Spur Shelter for lunch. The three of us planned on 12.5 more miles to another shelter to end the day. However, we didn't follow through with those plans. To begin, it was too humid and too hot to go anywhere. So we decided we would rest a little long. Well, that turned into SR taking a nap in the grass. Samurai and I threw around a frisbee. He played ultimate in high and college so we had been talking about ultimate the last few days. TW, TP, and Donner just sat. Samurai and TP eventually got motivated and left. Right after that the Canadians began to roll into the shelter. Yes! Another excuse for us not to leave. So the four of us that remained talked with them for about an hour. I think we ended up staying at the shelter for almost three hours. That also meant we didn't hike the remaining 12.5 miles we had planned.
We ended up making it 5.8 miles to the Laurel Creek Shelter. I was the first to roll in. As I did, Prime Minister came out of the woods boasting about the "secret shower." It was all in the shelter's trail log. I waited for TW and SR. With Prime Minister's directions on how to get there, the three of us, TP, and Samarai headed out to find the shower. After climbing over some large boulders, through brush, and over rotted out trees we made it to the creek where the shower was to be located. However, we didn't find it. Running out of day light, we all headed back through the crap we already walked over. I was dirtier, hotter, and more tired than when I started going down toward the shower. SR was the first to make it back to camp. I was almost back when I saw him and PM walking toward me. PM was going to show him where it was. Pissed off, I just went back to camp. TW and SR followed PM down there. The "secret shower" ended up being a waterfall that one was able to stand under. It might have been nice, but I was content just washing off in the creek closer to camp.
I ended my day with dinner and a beer. That's right, a beer. I scored it as part of some trail magic. It was just sitting on the railing of a bridge. At first I was a little hesitant to take it, but as I was examming it, two girls who were just shy of the bridge yelled and said it was trail magic. Instantly it went I'm my pack for dinner. I cooled it off in the creek before dinner to make it drinkable. It was a Magic Hat lager and was well worth carrying.
Oh yeah, I will say yesterday was the day of falling limbs and trees. While at the shelter for lunch, I saw a handful of good size limbs just fall from 30 or 40 feet up. We joked with the Canadians by telling them to put the students they don't like over in that area. PM also said he saw a 20 or so foot tree just fall beside him. Crazy.
May 3...
SB and DM never made it into camp last night. Others behind us saw them hiking so we assumed they stopped a shelter earlier. I hope they aren't losing their motivation to be out here. They say 50% quit in Damascus. Of the remaining number, 50% quit while in VA as the get the "Virginia Blues." of you can get through VA, then they say you have about 80% chance of finishing. I better be in that 80%.
Today was nothing too new. I did hike past the second largest tree (largest on the southern part of the AT) on the trail. It is called Keffer Oak and assumed to be over 300 years old. When last measured, its girth was 18 feet 3 inches.
I also left a gentleman by the name of Thomas my blog. I met him last night at the shelter. He is out section hiking for a few days. He was pleasant to speak with, and I wish him the best in completing VA. I also recommended for him to get the same tent I have. If anyone is looking for a good one person tent, then I recommend the Big Agnes Seedhouse SL1. Thomas, if you get a chance to read this, then good luck too you and perhaps we'll see you in another part trail in the future.
Other than that, it was a long 22.5 miles. Tomorrow we plan to get up earlier and get the miles out of the way. We have a few well known spots for VA that we plan to hike by: Dragons Tooth, McAfee Knob, and Tinker Cliffs. Therefore, I am heading to bed.
Have a good one.
Aside from a lack of cell service, I am still hiking. I am going to combine the last two days because I was too tired to write anything last night.
May 2...
Yesterday morning I woke up, made breakfast, and finished getting my stuff packed. I didn't see SB or DM that whole time. As the rest of us left the shelter area, we walked past their tent, and they were still in it. It was almost 9 too. We made sure they were awake and told them we were heading out. We figured they would catch up later in the day.
Overall the hiking was fairly the same of ridge walking over rocks. I can't wait to see PA which is known for rocks. Throughout the day I kept passing people from Canada. Turns out it is an outdoor recreation class that has traveled down here to hike a few days. Part of the class is planning a trip and then following through with it at the end of the semester. We passed most of them around Wind Rock, but we still stopped and answered a fair share of questions. Around 2, the three of us as well as TP, Samurai, and Donner made it to War Spur Shelter for lunch. The three of us planned on 12.5 more miles to another shelter to end the day. However, we didn't follow through with those plans. To begin, it was too humid and too hot to go anywhere. So we decided we would rest a little long. Well, that turned into SR taking a nap in the grass. Samurai and I threw around a frisbee. He played ultimate in high and college so we had been talking about ultimate the last few days. TW, TP, and Donner just sat. Samurai and TP eventually got motivated and left. Right after that the Canadians began to roll into the shelter. Yes! Another excuse for us not to leave. So the four of us that remained talked with them for about an hour. I think we ended up staying at the shelter for almost three hours. That also meant we didn't hike the remaining 12.5 miles we had planned.
We ended up making it 5.8 miles to the Laurel Creek Shelter. I was the first to roll in. As I did, Prime Minister came out of the woods boasting about the "secret shower." It was all in the shelter's trail log. I waited for TW and SR. With Prime Minister's directions on how to get there, the three of us, TP, and Samarai headed out to find the shower. After climbing over some large boulders, through brush, and over rotted out trees we made it to the creek where the shower was to be located. However, we didn't find it. Running out of day light, we all headed back through the crap we already walked over. I was dirtier, hotter, and more tired than when I started going down toward the shower. SR was the first to make it back to camp. I was almost back when I saw him and PM walking toward me. PM was going to show him where it was. Pissed off, I just went back to camp. TW and SR followed PM down there. The "secret shower" ended up being a waterfall that one was able to stand under. It might have been nice, but I was content just washing off in the creek closer to camp.
I ended my day with dinner and a beer. That's right, a beer. I scored it as part of some trail magic. It was just sitting on the railing of a bridge. At first I was a little hesitant to take it, but as I was examming it, two girls who were just shy of the bridge yelled and said it was trail magic. Instantly it went I'm my pack for dinner. I cooled it off in the creek before dinner to make it drinkable. It was a Magic Hat lager and was well worth carrying.
Oh yeah, I will say yesterday was the day of falling limbs and trees. While at the shelter for lunch, I saw a handful of good size limbs just fall from 30 or 40 feet up. We joked with the Canadians by telling them to put the students they don't like over in that area. PM also said he saw a 20 or so foot tree just fall beside him. Crazy.
May 3...
SB and DM never made it into camp last night. Others behind us saw them hiking so we assumed they stopped a shelter earlier. I hope they aren't losing their motivation to be out here. They say 50% quit in Damascus. Of the remaining number, 50% quit while in VA as the get the "Virginia Blues." of you can get through VA, then they say you have about 80% chance of finishing. I better be in that 80%.
Today was nothing too new. I did hike past the second largest tree (largest on the southern part of the AT) on the trail. It is called Keffer Oak and assumed to be over 300 years old. When last measured, its girth was 18 feet 3 inches.
I also left a gentleman by the name of Thomas my blog. I met him last night at the shelter. He is out section hiking for a few days. He was pleasant to speak with, and I wish him the best in completing VA. I also recommended for him to get the same tent I have. If anyone is looking for a good one person tent, then I recommend the Big Agnes Seedhouse SL1. Thomas, if you get a chance to read this, then good luck too you and perhaps we'll see you in another part trail in the future.
Other than that, it was a long 22.5 miles. Tomorrow we plan to get up earlier and get the miles out of the way. We have a few well known spots for VA that we plan to hike by: Dragons Tooth, McAfee Knob, and Tinker Cliffs. Therefore, I am heading to bed.
Have a good one.
May 1 - 18.8 / 645.7
I think I counted 13 trains go by, by the time I left camp this morning. Eight or nine of those came during the night too.
This morning I woke up shocked. Normally, Sky Rocket is one of the last to get up and eat breakfast. Today he was the first, and I think I rolled over, while still in my sleeping bag, and saw him making breakfast by 6:30. I even went back to sleep until I woke up to him banging something in his hands and saying, "breakfast." I laughed as I realized he was making pancakes and bacon for us. He has bought a pizza pan (or something of that sort) at Wal-Mart and was using that to cook the pancakes on. The bacon was the precooked bacon and just needed a little heating up. I will say I was quite impressed and everything tasted delicious.
I was actually the last one to leave camp this morning which is also rare. I ended up getting a good size blister on my left small toe yesterday. So this morning I popped it and did a little surgery (i.e. tape and hydropel). I try to take a picture if I get another one. Overall my feet are holding up well, but I am getting some new blisters and calus (sp?) as my feet are still adjusting to my trail runners. I do like the trail runners a lot more than my boots. I do have to be more careful with less ankle support though.
I wasn't a mile or two into my hike when I came across DM sitting on the side of the trail. She was the first one to leave too. She said everything was ok. She just wanted to take a break and was probably going to call her mom and eat peanut butter. I then passed TW and eventually caught up to SB. I then got that feeling that we weren't going to make it as far as we had discussed before we all left. The plan was 23 miles to the third shelter.
I made it to the first shelter. I wish we had been able to get out of town sooner than we did and had made it to the Rice Field Shelter last night. The shelter was on the top of a ridge and over looked a field and valley below. Many people had told us the sunset was great from up there. I guess I'll just have to live with the view during the day.
I went and got water while waiting for the others to make it in. The trek took me around 30 minutes to walk down a side trail, slowly fill up my water bucket, and walk back to the shelter. Eventually all five of us made it in. I had a quick snack and planned to eat a few miles down the trail. We had only put in a little less than seven miles. While we were there this lady, her husband, and he dog showed up. I think it took her a good five minutes to climb over some wooden steps which went over a barb wire fence in order to get to the shelter. Once she completed that amazing task (insert sarcasm) the flood gate of noise started to come out of her mouth. I don't even think she took a breathe. She just kept talking and talking and talking. Her husband didn't say one word. I knew I had to get out of there so I packed up my food as quick as I could and left.
The rest of the day was mostly walking a rocky ridge line. Again, I feel that all VA has is rocks. That is what PA is supposed to be known for, not VA. I leap frogged with Prime Minister and Samurai for most of the afternoon. PM told us that Sonic (one of the other hikers who stayed at Woods Hole a few nights ago) had gone to see a doctor in Pearisburg. Ends up that he had a case of bacterial giardia. We kept telling him that is what he had. That is a result of not filtering/treating his water. Giardia is no fun and could easily sideline a hiker for a few weeks if not the entire trip.
I got in the zone late in the day and pushed on to the second shelter of the day. I passed the VA Tech guys who stayed a few hundred yards up the trail from us last night. I got to the shelter and decided to start making dinner before the others arrived. I still had that feeling we weren't hiking the 4 more miles to the third shelter. Dinner was about done when out of no where we got an afternoon downpour. I grabbed my stuff and ducked into the shelter. As I was eating, TW and SR rolled in about an hour after I arrived. Neither of them wanted to hike on. Then DM and SB walked in. Neither of them wanted to go on either. So good call on my part for starting dinner and actually stopping at the second shelter. I could have gone on after dinner, but a part of me was perfectly content with stopping here for the day.
Also here are the VA Tech students, Wizard (new), TP (new), Samurai, Prime Minister, Donner, and some VA Tech grad students. I spoke with the grad students for a little bit this evening. They were cool and a pleasure to hang out with. I might try to pass on my blog to them in the morning.
The Kirks, thanks for the update on DS. I am sorry that I wasn't able to join yall in Bastain. I will see yall some time again, if not on the trail.
M.E., I got your message. Thanks and thanks for letting Randolph say I was "on the mountain." I look forward to seeing yall in a few weeks. Everyone has recommended the Homeplace Rest., but we will be going through Catawba when it is closed.
All, give someone a hug even if they don't like hugs. Hugs are good.
B-Rock (as DM says every once and a while)
This morning I woke up shocked. Normally, Sky Rocket is one of the last to get up and eat breakfast. Today he was the first, and I think I rolled over, while still in my sleeping bag, and saw him making breakfast by 6:30. I even went back to sleep until I woke up to him banging something in his hands and saying, "breakfast." I laughed as I realized he was making pancakes and bacon for us. He has bought a pizza pan (or something of that sort) at Wal-Mart and was using that to cook the pancakes on. The bacon was the precooked bacon and just needed a little heating up. I will say I was quite impressed and everything tasted delicious.
I was actually the last one to leave camp this morning which is also rare. I ended up getting a good size blister on my left small toe yesterday. So this morning I popped it and did a little surgery (i.e. tape and hydropel). I try to take a picture if I get another one. Overall my feet are holding up well, but I am getting some new blisters and calus (sp?) as my feet are still adjusting to my trail runners. I do like the trail runners a lot more than my boots. I do have to be more careful with less ankle support though.
I wasn't a mile or two into my hike when I came across DM sitting on the side of the trail. She was the first one to leave too. She said everything was ok. She just wanted to take a break and was probably going to call her mom and eat peanut butter. I then passed TW and eventually caught up to SB. I then got that feeling that we weren't going to make it as far as we had discussed before we all left. The plan was 23 miles to the third shelter.
I made it to the first shelter. I wish we had been able to get out of town sooner than we did and had made it to the Rice Field Shelter last night. The shelter was on the top of a ridge and over looked a field and valley below. Many people had told us the sunset was great from up there. I guess I'll just have to live with the view during the day.
I went and got water while waiting for the others to make it in. The trek took me around 30 minutes to walk down a side trail, slowly fill up my water bucket, and walk back to the shelter. Eventually all five of us made it in. I had a quick snack and planned to eat a few miles down the trail. We had only put in a little less than seven miles. While we were there this lady, her husband, and he dog showed up. I think it took her a good five minutes to climb over some wooden steps which went over a barb wire fence in order to get to the shelter. Once she completed that amazing task (insert sarcasm) the flood gate of noise started to come out of her mouth. I don't even think she took a breathe. She just kept talking and talking and talking. Her husband didn't say one word. I knew I had to get out of there so I packed up my food as quick as I could and left.
The rest of the day was mostly walking a rocky ridge line. Again, I feel that all VA has is rocks. That is what PA is supposed to be known for, not VA. I leap frogged with Prime Minister and Samurai for most of the afternoon. PM told us that Sonic (one of the other hikers who stayed at Woods Hole a few nights ago) had gone to see a doctor in Pearisburg. Ends up that he had a case of bacterial giardia. We kept telling him that is what he had. That is a result of not filtering/treating his water. Giardia is no fun and could easily sideline a hiker for a few weeks if not the entire trip.
I got in the zone late in the day and pushed on to the second shelter of the day. I passed the VA Tech guys who stayed a few hundred yards up the trail from us last night. I got to the shelter and decided to start making dinner before the others arrived. I still had that feeling we weren't hiking the 4 more miles to the third shelter. Dinner was about done when out of no where we got an afternoon downpour. I grabbed my stuff and ducked into the shelter. As I was eating, TW and SR rolled in about an hour after I arrived. Neither of them wanted to hike on. Then DM and SB walked in. Neither of them wanted to go on either. So good call on my part for starting dinner and actually stopping at the second shelter. I could have gone on after dinner, but a part of me was perfectly content with stopping here for the day.
Also here are the VA Tech students, Wizard (new), TP (new), Samurai, Prime Minister, Donner, and some VA Tech grad students. I spoke with the grad students for a little bit this evening. They were cool and a pleasure to hang out with. I might try to pass on my blog to them in the morning.
The Kirks, thanks for the update on DS. I am sorry that I wasn't able to join yall in Bastain. I will see yall some time again, if not on the trail.
M.E., I got your message. Thanks and thanks for letting Randolph say I was "on the mountain." I look forward to seeing yall in a few weeks. Everyone has recommended the Homeplace Rest., but we will be going through Catawba when it is closed.
All, give someone a hug even if they don't like hugs. Hugs are good.
B-Rock (as DM says every once and a while)
Saturday, May 1, 2010
April 29 & 30 - 20.4 / 616.0 & 10.9 / 626.9
Today, I decided the trail is much like faith. I know the path to take, but I am having to trust that it is steering me in the right direction. I am told (or can read in my Hikers Companion) that a town may be so many days away. I can only trust that, that is true. Also, I follow blazes that are painted on trees, bridges, street signs, etc. God shows us signs but we might not always see them. They are there though. We might even have to turn around to see them too. Sometimes we make our journey in faith alone and sometimes we walk along with other people. The same is true with the trail.
Again, VA went back to rocks today. Overall, there wasn't much elevation change except for a 2,000 foot climb near the end of the day. For breakfast/lunch, SR, TW, and I walked to a gas station grocery about a half mile off the trail. I got a cheeseburger and cajun fries. I also got a Boone's Farm to drink. I don't know really why I bought it other than saying it was an impulse buy or really a joke thing to do. After eating, I kinda wished I would have hiked on instead of stopping. I would much rather hike more in the morning before stopping to eat. It makes the afternoons better.
This was the first day that seemed like it really dragged on while hiking. Eventually, I was able to make it to a road crossing that took me to Woods Hole Hostel. The hostel is ran my a couple name Neville and Michael. My friend Stuart's, aka Sleepy Pizza from earlier blogs, is family friends with Neville's family. Tweedie Griswold actually knew Neville's grandmother who along with Neville's grandfather came up with the idea to start the hostel years ago. Neville's grandfather suddenly passed away in his sleep before the idea was finalized. The grandmother tried to get everything going, but passed away in 2007. That is when Neville asked her mom to inherit the property and make the hostel dream come true. Neville and Michael were two very extraordinary people. They would do anything for the hikers.
Last night, I was able to get there before dinner so I decided to join in. They try to use items from their own garden or from neighbors. For dinner we had a salad and homemade breadsticks. I know most of the stuff in the salad was grown by them. We also had homemade crutons and dressings. One of the dressings was a honey vinaigrette made with the honey from their own bees. The main course was a calzone filled with spinach, cheese, and pepperoni. The pepperoni was made from a combination of deer and a pig which they slaughtered. Homemade butter pecan and cookies n' cream ice cream was for dessert. The other hikers who did not pay for dinner all came inside for ice cream.
For breakfast we all woke up to a triangle being rang. That meant that coffee and tea was ready. The coffee is grown and roasted by them too. The meal was eggs, grits, sausage, fried bananas, and biscuits. It was incredible. They also had local jellies and jams. One of the jellies was a spicy jelly made by a local Amish family. TW, SW, and I spent the rest of the morning slowly getting ready to hike. None of us wanted to leave but knew we had to. Don't worry, I will return to their place in the future and just spend a weekend with them. I recommend anyone around Pearisburg, VA to go spent a weekend with them. They rent out rooms in their cabin to anyone. Trust me, it would be worth it.
Eventually, the three of us got a hitch from Neville back to the trail. We hiked the 10 miles into Pearisburg. While here we did laundry and resupplied. I bought way too much food. I think this is this most my pack has weighed.
Tonight we hiked about a half mile out of town. We found a flat spot just right off the trail and set camp up. We wanted to get out of town by 5, but didn't leave until 7:45ish. We are maybe 50 yards from a train track and three trains have already gone by. It might be a long night.
BT
Again, VA went back to rocks today. Overall, there wasn't much elevation change except for a 2,000 foot climb near the end of the day. For breakfast/lunch, SR, TW, and I walked to a gas station grocery about a half mile off the trail. I got a cheeseburger and cajun fries. I also got a Boone's Farm to drink. I don't know really why I bought it other than saying it was an impulse buy or really a joke thing to do. After eating, I kinda wished I would have hiked on instead of stopping. I would much rather hike more in the morning before stopping to eat. It makes the afternoons better.
This was the first day that seemed like it really dragged on while hiking. Eventually, I was able to make it to a road crossing that took me to Woods Hole Hostel. The hostel is ran my a couple name Neville and Michael. My friend Stuart's, aka Sleepy Pizza from earlier blogs, is family friends with Neville's family. Tweedie Griswold actually knew Neville's grandmother who along with Neville's grandfather came up with the idea to start the hostel years ago. Neville's grandfather suddenly passed away in his sleep before the idea was finalized. The grandmother tried to get everything going, but passed away in 2007. That is when Neville asked her mom to inherit the property and make the hostel dream come true. Neville and Michael were two very extraordinary people. They would do anything for the hikers.
Last night, I was able to get there before dinner so I decided to join in. They try to use items from their own garden or from neighbors. For dinner we had a salad and homemade breadsticks. I know most of the stuff in the salad was grown by them. We also had homemade crutons and dressings. One of the dressings was a honey vinaigrette made with the honey from their own bees. The main course was a calzone filled with spinach, cheese, and pepperoni. The pepperoni was made from a combination of deer and a pig which they slaughtered. Homemade butter pecan and cookies n' cream ice cream was for dessert. The other hikers who did not pay for dinner all came inside for ice cream.
For breakfast we all woke up to a triangle being rang. That meant that coffee and tea was ready. The coffee is grown and roasted by them too. The meal was eggs, grits, sausage, fried bananas, and biscuits. It was incredible. They also had local jellies and jams. One of the jellies was a spicy jelly made by a local Amish family. TW, SW, and I spent the rest of the morning slowly getting ready to hike. None of us wanted to leave but knew we had to. Don't worry, I will return to their place in the future and just spend a weekend with them. I recommend anyone around Pearisburg, VA to go spent a weekend with them. They rent out rooms in their cabin to anyone. Trust me, it would be worth it.
Eventually, the three of us got a hitch from Neville back to the trail. We hiked the 10 miles into Pearisburg. While here we did laundry and resupplied. I bought way too much food. I think this is this most my pack has weighed.
Tonight we hiked about a half mile out of town. We found a flat spot just right off the trail and set camp up. We wanted to get out of town by 5, but didn't leave until 7:45ish. We are maybe 50 yards from a train track and three trains have already gone by. It might be a long night.
BT
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
April 28 - 23.8 / 595.6
Before I talk about the day, I want to say I have come up with my new favorite trail mix. No, it does not have nuts or fruit and probably isn't good for me. On the last few resupplies I have bought mini oreos, gummy bears, and peach rings. I mix them all together and poof, a great snack. I call all rights to it now to sell it when I get off the trail.
This morning and last night was one of the coldest while out on the trail. I am glad I still had my winter bag. I even ate breakfast in my bag. I could have used my heavier down jacket, but I was able to get by and kept moving once I got out of my bag. For some reason it takes me over an hour to get ready in the morning. It isn't like I have a lot to do. I think some of it has to do with the others still sleeping when I even start my routine. If they were up and going then maybe I would move faster.
TW and I were again the first two to leave the shelter out of our group. We both like to get going as soon as we can. SB, DM, and SR all had their respective tent or hammock still up when we left. I will apologize for talking so negatively about VA yesterday. Today was much different. The ridge line was much easier to walk on today as there were no rocks. I hiked 5 miles in about 55 minutes. TW and I were both on the same pace, and we decided to stop at a road crossing for a snack. I even sent out a GPS message just for Richie to have something to look at. As we headed back into the woods I noticed a large styrofoam cooler off the trail. I opened it only to find melted ice and the weather forecast. Other hikers had already cleaned out the trail magic. Ahhhhhh! Frustrated, I didn't even look at the weather. I closed the lid and went on.
The next 7 or so miles were pretty easy. TW and I did get to another road crossing and were unsure where the trail went. We tried looking for blazes all along the road and in the woods; however, we saw nothing. TW even pulled out a map to try and figure it out. I left my pack and ran a little ways down the road. I ended up finding a blaze and ran back to get my pack and her. We hiked down the road and got to witness 3 deer carcasses that some decided should be dropped off beside the road.
We neared I-77 and started to walk along what we thought was the trail. It ended up going up a small hill and overlooked the interstate and a valley. Sitting there was Donner and Young One eating lunch. We joined them with a shoes off lunch for about an hour. I even sent some emails and checked the FB.
The afternoon was pretty much the same and a pretty easy hike. I leap frogged Donner and had a pretty good pace going. I came to another road crossing and caught someone a little off guard. (Might need to limit the younger ones reading but I'll keep it PG.) Through the trees I could see a female with her shorts down around her ankles. I am going to go with she was going number 1 but she could have been trying number 2. I made as much noise by kicking leaves to let her know I was there. She immediately yanked her shorts up. I walked out of the woods and just said, "Sorry." What else do you say in that situation? I will say guys probably have it easier out here when it comes to using the restroom. Yes, I have seen other guys relieving themself along the trail, but they at least get behind a tree or face away from you. This girl was just in the middle of the road, right out in the open. Did she not think anyone else was hiking the trail today? For now, I will not mention her trail name just in case I come across her in the future. It was my first time to meet her so don't try to guess who it was.
I was planning to stop and rest at the road, but hiked on cause it was a little awkward. I stopped 3 miles short of the shelter and just took some time. I called Sarah, a manager of mine, to check in on work and other things. TW passed me, and Donner approached as I was packing up. The last 3 miles were smooth sailing. There are a few people at the shelter. All are tenting or hammocking except for Young One and Donner. I like being in my tent as I feel like I have my own space and I can blog without disturbing others. Plus, I needed to let my tent dry out from two nights ago.
Sorry, but today was a little uneventful.
I know some of you have asked me questions. I am going to start doing Q&A posts too. So if you have questions, leave a comment or send an email to either thompson.brianc@gmail.com or throughhisfeet@gmail.com. Once I get a few questions I will respond. Don't be afraid to ask questions as others probably have that same question about the trail or my experience out here. I will try to give my first response tomorrow if I have the time and phone service.
Until then, enjoy the full moon tonight.
Goodnight, friends. BT
This morning and last night was one of the coldest while out on the trail. I am glad I still had my winter bag. I even ate breakfast in my bag. I could have used my heavier down jacket, but I was able to get by and kept moving once I got out of my bag. For some reason it takes me over an hour to get ready in the morning. It isn't like I have a lot to do. I think some of it has to do with the others still sleeping when I even start my routine. If they were up and going then maybe I would move faster.
TW and I were again the first two to leave the shelter out of our group. We both like to get going as soon as we can. SB, DM, and SR all had their respective tent or hammock still up when we left. I will apologize for talking so negatively about VA yesterday. Today was much different. The ridge line was much easier to walk on today as there were no rocks. I hiked 5 miles in about 55 minutes. TW and I were both on the same pace, and we decided to stop at a road crossing for a snack. I even sent out a GPS message just for Richie to have something to look at. As we headed back into the woods I noticed a large styrofoam cooler off the trail. I opened it only to find melted ice and the weather forecast. Other hikers had already cleaned out the trail magic. Ahhhhhh! Frustrated, I didn't even look at the weather. I closed the lid and went on.
The next 7 or so miles were pretty easy. TW and I did get to another road crossing and were unsure where the trail went. We tried looking for blazes all along the road and in the woods; however, we saw nothing. TW even pulled out a map to try and figure it out. I left my pack and ran a little ways down the road. I ended up finding a blaze and ran back to get my pack and her. We hiked down the road and got to witness 3 deer carcasses that some decided should be dropped off beside the road.
We neared I-77 and started to walk along what we thought was the trail. It ended up going up a small hill and overlooked the interstate and a valley. Sitting there was Donner and Young One eating lunch. We joined them with a shoes off lunch for about an hour. I even sent some emails and checked the FB.
The afternoon was pretty much the same and a pretty easy hike. I leap frogged Donner and had a pretty good pace going. I came to another road crossing and caught someone a little off guard. (Might need to limit the younger ones reading but I'll keep it PG.) Through the trees I could see a female with her shorts down around her ankles. I am going to go with she was going number 1 but she could have been trying number 2. I made as much noise by kicking leaves to let her know I was there. She immediately yanked her shorts up. I walked out of the woods and just said, "Sorry." What else do you say in that situation? I will say guys probably have it easier out here when it comes to using the restroom. Yes, I have seen other guys relieving themself along the trail, but they at least get behind a tree or face away from you. This girl was just in the middle of the road, right out in the open. Did she not think anyone else was hiking the trail today? For now, I will not mention her trail name just in case I come across her in the future. It was my first time to meet her so don't try to guess who it was.
I was planning to stop and rest at the road, but hiked on cause it was a little awkward. I stopped 3 miles short of the shelter and just took some time. I called Sarah, a manager of mine, to check in on work and other things. TW passed me, and Donner approached as I was packing up. The last 3 miles were smooth sailing. There are a few people at the shelter. All are tenting or hammocking except for Young One and Donner. I like being in my tent as I feel like I have my own space and I can blog without disturbing others. Plus, I needed to let my tent dry out from two nights ago.
Sorry, but today was a little uneventful.
I know some of you have asked me questions. I am going to start doing Q&A posts too. So if you have questions, leave a comment or send an email to either thompson.brianc@gmail.com or throughhisfeet@gmail.com. Once I get a few questions I will respond. Don't be afraid to ask questions as others probably have that same question about the trail or my experience out here. I will try to give my first response tomorrow if I have the time and phone service.
Until then, enjoy the full moon tonight.
Goodnight, friends. BT
April 27 - 19 / 571.8
I think to replace the lack of mountains in Virginia, the AT gods have placed every rock in the state on the trail. VA is known for being "flat" when compared to the rest of the trail. However, the rocks are every where. They are big, small, sharp, flat, round, stable, wobbly, etc. and they kill my feet. I'd rather hike up and down steep mountains than cross over rock fields on a ridge line. Ok, I am done complaining (for now).
I didn't want to get out of my tent this morning even after hearing people stirring around at 6. I made it out around 7:30, but no one else from our group was moving. I went ahead and started to pack up and eat breakfast. I spoke with the Oak Ridge men as they were packing too. They were only planning to do 10 miles today. Well, I say only, but that is 10 more miles than most Americans.
I rolled out of camp around 9, and don't think the others got out of there until an hour or so later. The first 4 or so miles were pretty easy. Then the next 5 miles were uphill to the top of Chestnut Ridge. A shelter sits on the top of the ridge over looking "God's Thumbprint." The shelter is a former fire warden's cabin. It was perfect for today as the weather was cold and rainy. The cabin gave full protection from the elements during lunch. Young One and Donner were also there but left shortly after I arrived. I got a chance to call my brother during lunch to tell him happy birthday. We also spent some time just catching up. I didn't want to leave the shelter cause I was so cold. TW arrived, and I spoke with her for a few minutes and then left. As I walked out of the cabin I realized it wasn't raining anymore. It was now snowing! With my rain gear on, I headed on.
A side note, "God's Thumbprint" is really known as Burkes Garden. It gets its name due to its crater shape and being surrounded on all side by a ridge. It was the Vanderbilts' first choice for the Biltmore estate before they settled on th current location near Asheville. Honestly, I think they made the right decision.
I was coming down the ridge when I came across a lady hiking southbound. She instantly started to complain about the weather. A part of me wanted to tell her to be quiet cause I had been hiking across an exposed ridge for the last 2 hours in the same weather and at almost 1,500 feet higher in elevation. I let her complain though. She said that she had seen a girl hiking in shorts and a short sleeve shirt and looked to be hypothermic. Instantly my head kicked into Wilderness First Responder mode. I thought that this was going to be the first chance to be able to use my training. I started to ask questions about the situation, but she said she had passed the girl hours ago. I figured if she was in trouble then I probably wouldn't see her until the next shelter.
I continued to hike down from the ridge. I probably fell a good five or six times. I was ready for the day to be over with. Cold and wet I made it to the shelter. I instantly put on dry clothes and claimed a spot in the shelter. I got in my sleeping bag to warm up and snacked for a little bit. Eventually I made some dinner. All the rest of the gang arrived by the time I had finished dinner. I tried to finish this blog last night, but only got half way through.
Wrapping up, I want to say I have the coolest, smartest, most fun nephew. He is about 2.5. When my sister or parents ask him, "Where is Brian?"...he responds with, "On the mountain." How awesome is that. I can't wait to see him and the rest of my family in a few weeks.
I didn't want to get out of my tent this morning even after hearing people stirring around at 6. I made it out around 7:30, but no one else from our group was moving. I went ahead and started to pack up and eat breakfast. I spoke with the Oak Ridge men as they were packing too. They were only planning to do 10 miles today. Well, I say only, but that is 10 more miles than most Americans.
I rolled out of camp around 9, and don't think the others got out of there until an hour or so later. The first 4 or so miles were pretty easy. Then the next 5 miles were uphill to the top of Chestnut Ridge. A shelter sits on the top of the ridge over looking "God's Thumbprint." The shelter is a former fire warden's cabin. It was perfect for today as the weather was cold and rainy. The cabin gave full protection from the elements during lunch. Young One and Donner were also there but left shortly after I arrived. I got a chance to call my brother during lunch to tell him happy birthday. We also spent some time just catching up. I didn't want to leave the shelter cause I was so cold. TW arrived, and I spoke with her for a few minutes and then left. As I walked out of the cabin I realized it wasn't raining anymore. It was now snowing! With my rain gear on, I headed on.
A side note, "God's Thumbprint" is really known as Burkes Garden. It gets its name due to its crater shape and being surrounded on all side by a ridge. It was the Vanderbilts' first choice for the Biltmore estate before they settled on th current location near Asheville. Honestly, I think they made the right decision.
I was coming down the ridge when I came across a lady hiking southbound. She instantly started to complain about the weather. A part of me wanted to tell her to be quiet cause I had been hiking across an exposed ridge for the last 2 hours in the same weather and at almost 1,500 feet higher in elevation. I let her complain though. She said that she had seen a girl hiking in shorts and a short sleeve shirt and looked to be hypothermic. Instantly my head kicked into Wilderness First Responder mode. I thought that this was going to be the first chance to be able to use my training. I started to ask questions about the situation, but she said she had passed the girl hours ago. I figured if she was in trouble then I probably wouldn't see her until the next shelter.
I continued to hike down from the ridge. I probably fell a good five or six times. I was ready for the day to be over with. Cold and wet I made it to the shelter. I instantly put on dry clothes and claimed a spot in the shelter. I got in my sleeping bag to warm up and snacked for a little bit. Eventually I made some dinner. All the rest of the gang arrived by the time I had finished dinner. I tried to finish this blog last night, but only got half way through.
Wrapping up, I want to say I have the coolest, smartest, most fun nephew. He is about 2.5. When my sister or parents ask him, "Where is Brian?"...he responds with, "On the mountain." How awesome is that. I can't wait to see him and the rest of my family in a few weeks.
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
April 25 & 26 - 22.2 / 538.8 & 14 / 552.8
April 25...
I don't think any one really wanted to get going in the morning. Most at the hostel were only doing 10 or so miles to the Partnership Shelter. That shelter offers a "solar" shower and sink. Hikers are also able to order pizza from there and have them delivered to the VA National Recreation Area's HQ which is a few hundred yards away. None of us partook in the pizza delivery since we figured we could eat something better in Atkins or Marion 12 miles away.
TW and I were to first to head out from our group. Soon after getting back on the AT from the side trail from the shelter we saw Fish and Uncle J-Bird with Hurricane. They said she did fine through the night which was good to hear. (We also heard as I am writing this on the 26th, that they were able to find someone at one of the road crossings to give Hurricane to. I hope that dog is able to get healthy and live a good life.)
About a quarter of a mile later, TW and I came across somethings very unexpected. On a hill in a meadow was an old-school school bus. We had to go check it out. I felt like I was in a scene from "Into the Wild" and about to come across someone who was living in the bus. It was pretty much rusted out and most of the windows were broken. Inside was a stove, a furnace, a couch, and a single bed. It either used to be someones house or used for a hunting cabin. Soon after, DM, SB, and SR showed up and explored the bus too. TW said she had heard or read about the bus before but wasn't sure where it was on the trail. I also want to mention some cow patties that were in the field around the bus. The only reason I am mentioning them is because I am not sure what these cows were eating. They had a bad case of the runs for sure. Sorry to have to say that, but it gave us some laughs, and I want to be able to remember that when going back to read this blog.
We headed out with TW and I in the lead again. Not within 10 minutes were we coming to a gravel road. I could see a white SUV parked there. As we approached an older gentleman got out and asked if we knew where Cowgirl and her dog Kelly were. I told him that she had left the shelter about an hour ahead of us. He thanked us and started to get back in the SUV. Then he paused, got back out, and asked if we wanted trail magic. Of course we didn't turn it down. TW and I both got apples. We thanked him, and he drove off. We stood in the road eating out apples when Skyrocket walked up. TW and I just started laughing and SR yelled, "NOOOO!" He said he had a feeling it was going to be trail magic but couldn't walk quick enough to get there. We offered him a bite, but he refused as did DM and SB who got to the road a few minutes later.
I felt good and got a new burst of energy. I was walking at a good pace and soon passed DM and SB. I then started to hear a little dog barking. I got this feeling that it was the guy again as he had a small dog with him in the SUV. I got down the mountain and around the corner and my thoughts were confirmed. He was there again at the next dirt road. However, this time he had gotten there before Cowgirl. Also there was SR, Young One, and Prophet. I walked up to them and was offered cookies and water. Again, I didn't turn it down. It is pretty much first come first serve when it comes to trail magic. If you turn it down it might be gone two seconds later. It turns out that the gentleman and his wife, John and Jane, were family friends of Cowgirl. DM showed up and got some too. The couple offered their final cookies and then drove off with the packs of Cowgirl, YO, and Prophet. They decided to slack pack to the next road crossing 4 miles further. DM, SR, and I declined the offer as we are trying no to slack pack the entire trail. SR left the last cookie in the middle of the trail for either SB or TW, whomever got their first, and we headed on.
The terrain flattened out, and I was able to make the 4 miles to Partnership Shelter, the one mentioned earlier, in a little over and hour. The shelter is fairly new and over looks some lakes. I tried the shower, but it was freezing cold so I didn't get in. We decided to eat lunch before heading on. I was able to speak with my parents also. It was tough to leave as the sun was out and the temp was great. However, we knew the town was only 12 miles away.
The last 12 miles of the day weren't too bad. We came across a few guys out for a few days. One started talking to us and said he had to give his water to a girl and guy who were slack packing. Turned out it was Cowgirl and Young One. I don't think they were actually out of water, but that is how the guy made it sound. With about 4 miles to go, the terrain again leveled out. All of us were making good time when all of a sudden we came across a sign that said "Settler's Museum, Free to AT Hikers." We debated and decided to hike on. We then came to a road crossing with an old single room school. A sign on the door said it was open and for hikers to enjoy. We went in and read a little about its history. I definitely felt like I was back in history. We took our time there, signed the trail log, and then moved on.
We could hear I-81 in the distance, but the trail seemed to take the longest route to get there. It was probably due to people's property lines and having to avoid those. Finally getting to the road, we were faced with a choice. Stay in Atkins where there is little to nothing or get a hitch to Marion and stay there. We heard there was an all you can eat Chinese buffet nearby and TW, SR, and I all needed to go to the post office in Atkins on Monday. After making a few calls to the different motels and hotels we decided to just stay at the Relax Inn just a few hundred yards from the trail. SB and I went to go get the room. As we were checking in, we asked about the buffet. The guy said it was in Marion, not Atkins. Well crappolla, we can't back out of the room now.
We dropped out stuff off in the room and walked back down the street to a Shell station. We asked some guys if they would give us a ride and soon enough, the five of us were in the back of a pick up heading to the buffet. The guy knew exactly where to take us. We chowed down on some Chinese food. The best part was they had real ice cream, not soft serve. I had chocolate and strawberry. None of us want to move as we were all in a food coma. We picked up some things and started looking for a hitch back. At night it is a little more difficult. We spread out along the road with no hits for a few minutes. That is when I headed toward the Sonic. I was shot down by the first car. I then went to the second car and asked. They thought for a second and told me they would. We let them finish their dinner, and the TW, SR, and I got in. At roughly the same time, DM and SB got a yes from a car at an ATM next to the Sonic. The couple driving me and the two others were very nice. They mentioned they try to help hikers when they can. The conversation lasted the whole ride back. I didn't get a chance to get their names, but I did pass on my blog. I hope they get a chance to read it. If so, thanks again for the ride!
The rest of the night was spent talking to Michelle, taking showers, and watching some movie. I was out before it even ended.
I also want to mention that the beard is going strong. It is the longest, bushiest, beard I have ever had. I'm ready to be able to have a handlebar mustache. Maybe a few more weeks, but that is also around the time of my brother's wedding. My mom and future sister-in-law might shoot that one down. Michelle might too. We'll see.
April 26...
None of us wanted to get up this morning. Plus, the curtains blocked the sun some it felt like it was 4 when it was already 9. We got up and headed to The Barn. We had seen ads about the breakfast. All but DM got the 2x4 Hiker Breakfast. That was 2 pancakes, 2 strips of bacon, 2 sausage paties, 2 eggs, hashbrowns or home fries, biscuits and gravy or toast, and coffee or tea. I did all the above with home fries, biscuits and gravy, and both coffee and tea. I was upset I couldn't finish it. Not all of us could so we combined left overs and gave it to Donner who was at another table. This guy is about my size. He had already finished his own 2x4 and had no problem taking care of out left overs. Any food left by one hiker is almost always eaten by another. Food does not go to waste.
The rest of the morning was spent goint to the post office and gas station to resupply. At the PO, I picked up some shorts, a shirt, and my trail running shoes. I also had my parents send me some knock off crocs as I left the pair I just bought in Damascus at a shelter. I hate crocs, but they are light weight and good for wearing around camp at night. I will not wear them otherwise. I sent some cold weather clothes, my boots, and camera memory card to my parents. I hope that by someone else having the memory card, pictures will be uploaded to the blog a little faster. There are not too many computers out in the woods.
We started our hike around 1 this afternoon. It rained for most of the hike. The only excitement was that we crossed the 25% completion mark today. Other than that, it was just pointless ups and downs (PUDs). VA is known for these.
The shelter was full as it only holds 6 people. There are also a lot of section hikers out for a few days in tents. I ended up hanging out with some gentlemen from Knoxville and Oak Ridge. They were great and it was nice to talk to someone about UT football. They offered us some hot dogs. I was even lucky enough to score some chili too. I enjoyed my time with them and wish them the best on their journey. I gave them my blog so I hope they check it out too.
It is way past my bed time so I am off to bed. The sound of rain hitting my tent and with it being in the 40's or so will help with me falling asleep.
Out, BT.
I don't think any one really wanted to get going in the morning. Most at the hostel were only doing 10 or so miles to the Partnership Shelter. That shelter offers a "solar" shower and sink. Hikers are also able to order pizza from there and have them delivered to the VA National Recreation Area's HQ which is a few hundred yards away. None of us partook in the pizza delivery since we figured we could eat something better in Atkins or Marion 12 miles away.
TW and I were to first to head out from our group. Soon after getting back on the AT from the side trail from the shelter we saw Fish and Uncle J-Bird with Hurricane. They said she did fine through the night which was good to hear. (We also heard as I am writing this on the 26th, that they were able to find someone at one of the road crossings to give Hurricane to. I hope that dog is able to get healthy and live a good life.)
About a quarter of a mile later, TW and I came across somethings very unexpected. On a hill in a meadow was an old-school school bus. We had to go check it out. I felt like I was in a scene from "Into the Wild" and about to come across someone who was living in the bus. It was pretty much rusted out and most of the windows were broken. Inside was a stove, a furnace, a couch, and a single bed. It either used to be someones house or used for a hunting cabin. Soon after, DM, SB, and SR showed up and explored the bus too. TW said she had heard or read about the bus before but wasn't sure where it was on the trail. I also want to mention some cow patties that were in the field around the bus. The only reason I am mentioning them is because I am not sure what these cows were eating. They had a bad case of the runs for sure. Sorry to have to say that, but it gave us some laughs, and I want to be able to remember that when going back to read this blog.
We headed out with TW and I in the lead again. Not within 10 minutes were we coming to a gravel road. I could see a white SUV parked there. As we approached an older gentleman got out and asked if we knew where Cowgirl and her dog Kelly were. I told him that she had left the shelter about an hour ahead of us. He thanked us and started to get back in the SUV. Then he paused, got back out, and asked if we wanted trail magic. Of course we didn't turn it down. TW and I both got apples. We thanked him, and he drove off. We stood in the road eating out apples when Skyrocket walked up. TW and I just started laughing and SR yelled, "NOOOO!" He said he had a feeling it was going to be trail magic but couldn't walk quick enough to get there. We offered him a bite, but he refused as did DM and SB who got to the road a few minutes later.
I felt good and got a new burst of energy. I was walking at a good pace and soon passed DM and SB. I then started to hear a little dog barking. I got this feeling that it was the guy again as he had a small dog with him in the SUV. I got down the mountain and around the corner and my thoughts were confirmed. He was there again at the next dirt road. However, this time he had gotten there before Cowgirl. Also there was SR, Young One, and Prophet. I walked up to them and was offered cookies and water. Again, I didn't turn it down. It is pretty much first come first serve when it comes to trail magic. If you turn it down it might be gone two seconds later. It turns out that the gentleman and his wife, John and Jane, were family friends of Cowgirl. DM showed up and got some too. The couple offered their final cookies and then drove off with the packs of Cowgirl, YO, and Prophet. They decided to slack pack to the next road crossing 4 miles further. DM, SR, and I declined the offer as we are trying no to slack pack the entire trail. SR left the last cookie in the middle of the trail for either SB or TW, whomever got their first, and we headed on.
The terrain flattened out, and I was able to make the 4 miles to Partnership Shelter, the one mentioned earlier, in a little over and hour. The shelter is fairly new and over looks some lakes. I tried the shower, but it was freezing cold so I didn't get in. We decided to eat lunch before heading on. I was able to speak with my parents also. It was tough to leave as the sun was out and the temp was great. However, we knew the town was only 12 miles away.
The last 12 miles of the day weren't too bad. We came across a few guys out for a few days. One started talking to us and said he had to give his water to a girl and guy who were slack packing. Turned out it was Cowgirl and Young One. I don't think they were actually out of water, but that is how the guy made it sound. With about 4 miles to go, the terrain again leveled out. All of us were making good time when all of a sudden we came across a sign that said "Settler's Museum, Free to AT Hikers." We debated and decided to hike on. We then came to a road crossing with an old single room school. A sign on the door said it was open and for hikers to enjoy. We went in and read a little about its history. I definitely felt like I was back in history. We took our time there, signed the trail log, and then moved on.
We could hear I-81 in the distance, but the trail seemed to take the longest route to get there. It was probably due to people's property lines and having to avoid those. Finally getting to the road, we were faced with a choice. Stay in Atkins where there is little to nothing or get a hitch to Marion and stay there. We heard there was an all you can eat Chinese buffet nearby and TW, SR, and I all needed to go to the post office in Atkins on Monday. After making a few calls to the different motels and hotels we decided to just stay at the Relax Inn just a few hundred yards from the trail. SB and I went to go get the room. As we were checking in, we asked about the buffet. The guy said it was in Marion, not Atkins. Well crappolla, we can't back out of the room now.
We dropped out stuff off in the room and walked back down the street to a Shell station. We asked some guys if they would give us a ride and soon enough, the five of us were in the back of a pick up heading to the buffet. The guy knew exactly where to take us. We chowed down on some Chinese food. The best part was they had real ice cream, not soft serve. I had chocolate and strawberry. None of us want to move as we were all in a food coma. We picked up some things and started looking for a hitch back. At night it is a little more difficult. We spread out along the road with no hits for a few minutes. That is when I headed toward the Sonic. I was shot down by the first car. I then went to the second car and asked. They thought for a second and told me they would. We let them finish their dinner, and the TW, SR, and I got in. At roughly the same time, DM and SB got a yes from a car at an ATM next to the Sonic. The couple driving me and the two others were very nice. They mentioned they try to help hikers when they can. The conversation lasted the whole ride back. I didn't get a chance to get their names, but I did pass on my blog. I hope they get a chance to read it. If so, thanks again for the ride!
The rest of the night was spent talking to Michelle, taking showers, and watching some movie. I was out before it even ended.
I also want to mention that the beard is going strong. It is the longest, bushiest, beard I have ever had. I'm ready to be able to have a handlebar mustache. Maybe a few more weeks, but that is also around the time of my brother's wedding. My mom and future sister-in-law might shoot that one down. Michelle might too. We'll see.
April 26...
None of us wanted to get up this morning. Plus, the curtains blocked the sun some it felt like it was 4 when it was already 9. We got up and headed to The Barn. We had seen ads about the breakfast. All but DM got the 2x4 Hiker Breakfast. That was 2 pancakes, 2 strips of bacon, 2 sausage paties, 2 eggs, hashbrowns or home fries, biscuits and gravy or toast, and coffee or tea. I did all the above with home fries, biscuits and gravy, and both coffee and tea. I was upset I couldn't finish it. Not all of us could so we combined left overs and gave it to Donner who was at another table. This guy is about my size. He had already finished his own 2x4 and had no problem taking care of out left overs. Any food left by one hiker is almost always eaten by another. Food does not go to waste.
The rest of the morning was spent goint to the post office and gas station to resupply. At the PO, I picked up some shorts, a shirt, and my trail running shoes. I also had my parents send me some knock off crocs as I left the pair I just bought in Damascus at a shelter. I hate crocs, but they are light weight and good for wearing around camp at night. I will not wear them otherwise. I sent some cold weather clothes, my boots, and camera memory card to my parents. I hope that by someone else having the memory card, pictures will be uploaded to the blog a little faster. There are not too many computers out in the woods.
We started our hike around 1 this afternoon. It rained for most of the hike. The only excitement was that we crossed the 25% completion mark today. Other than that, it was just pointless ups and downs (PUDs). VA is known for these.
The shelter was full as it only holds 6 people. There are also a lot of section hikers out for a few days in tents. I ended up hanging out with some gentlemen from Knoxville and Oak Ridge. They were great and it was nice to talk to someone about UT football. They offered us some hot dogs. I was even lucky enough to score some chili too. I enjoyed my time with them and wish them the best on their journey. I gave them my blog so I hope they check it out too.
It is way past my bed time so I am off to bed. The sound of rain hitting my tent and with it being in the 40's or so will help with me falling asleep.
Out, BT.
Sunday, April 25, 2010
April 24 - 14.1 / 516.6
I'll start this one off saying I don't know how these blogs read. I type them up with the thoughts in my head and don't go back and reread them. For all I know, they might not even make sense or even flow. Oh well, this is my blog.
This morning we were packing up our stuff when a guy in his late 20's or early 30's rolled up to the shelter. I was a little taken back as his pack looked like it didn't have much in it. He walked up to us and told us good morning. He then told us that he had some trail magic down at the road, 1.5 miles away. He said it was beer and sausage. All of us got excited, and started to pack up faster. He told us to take our time as his friends were all still sleeping. He left, and none of us could believe it. Low and behold, I got closer to the road and could smell a camp fire burning. I started to get excited. I came around the corner and could see multiple tents. The guy was correct. He and his friends had multiple beers, gatorade, bacon cooking, strawberry short cake, birthday cake, snickers, dried fruit, and tons of other things. It was the best trail magic by far. I stopped for almost two hours for a second breakfast. The guy leading the trail magic charge was an 04 thru hiker. All the other guys there were just his friends. They all live in different states now and this is a way for them to get together every year. This was their third year to do it.
Since SB, DM, TW, and SR still hadn't come in from the last shelter back, I moved on. I stopped a few miles later to snack with We'll See and Donner. I also got enough reception to get a few old blogs out.
After snacking, I hike another 9 or so miles to the shelter I am staying at tonight. When I got here, Roughin It had just left 20 minutes prior. He hiked on to the next shelter as he is trying to make it home in a few days to meet up with some friends and sister's graduation. In the shelter though was a guy I had never seen before. I was a little taken back. I noticed he had what looked like the end of a gun coming out of his sleeping bag. I was ready for others to get here even though I was having a good conversation with this guy. Probably caused I didn't want him to pull a gun on me. Donner rolled in about 10 minutes after me. That was a little relief. Then Uncle J-Bird, Fish, and Gravy Crockett (yes with a G not a D) came up. It was the first time I had met them.
They also had a bloodhound dog with them that was way under weight. They said they found it at the last shelter and were going to take in into Marion, VA in order to get it some help and food.
With the five of us here, I now felt a little better. I will say the guy was cool to speak with. Just seeing the end of a gun coming out of a sleeping bag had me a little hesitant. Someone mentioned we should go get fire wood and that is when the guy says he has a machete. What the heck, he has a gun and a machete?? What is he doing out here? He pulled it out and started to chop larger pieces of wood with it. While chopping he tells the five of us that he has a pellet gun. This is when he proceeds to pull it out of his sleeping bag. Whew, at least it wasn't a real gun. Next thing I know, we are all taking turns shooting it at a can on a log. Maybe I need to hang out with this guy more often.
Over the next few hours many more hikers showed up including SB, DM, SR, and TW. I was glad to see them and vice versa. They apologized for not hiking on last night. It was no big deal as we are all out here to hike our own hike. Plus, I got to hike a shorter day. Cowgirl and her dog Kelly also showed up. Well that set Hurricane, the newly adopted bloodhound, off. She would not stop barking. So Fish and J-Bird ended up packing up their stuff and moving on. They didn't want to disrupt anything around the shelter.
All made dinner just in time before the rain. I am in the shelter tonight with others including SB and TW. I ended up getting my own space as the shelter is two levels on each side with a fire place in the middle. I just hope this metal roof will keep me dry and not leak. I guess we will find out in the morning.
We got word that DS left Damascus today with Dr. Beefstick. Hopefully they will catch up with us soon.
Overall today was good. It was a short day of hiking; I got great trail magic; and I got to shoot a pellet gun. Sweetness!
This morning we were packing up our stuff when a guy in his late 20's or early 30's rolled up to the shelter. I was a little taken back as his pack looked like it didn't have much in it. He walked up to us and told us good morning. He then told us that he had some trail magic down at the road, 1.5 miles away. He said it was beer and sausage. All of us got excited, and started to pack up faster. He told us to take our time as his friends were all still sleeping. He left, and none of us could believe it. Low and behold, I got closer to the road and could smell a camp fire burning. I started to get excited. I came around the corner and could see multiple tents. The guy was correct. He and his friends had multiple beers, gatorade, bacon cooking, strawberry short cake, birthday cake, snickers, dried fruit, and tons of other things. It was the best trail magic by far. I stopped for almost two hours for a second breakfast. The guy leading the trail magic charge was an 04 thru hiker. All the other guys there were just his friends. They all live in different states now and this is a way for them to get together every year. This was their third year to do it.
Since SB, DM, TW, and SR still hadn't come in from the last shelter back, I moved on. I stopped a few miles later to snack with We'll See and Donner. I also got enough reception to get a few old blogs out.
After snacking, I hike another 9 or so miles to the shelter I am staying at tonight. When I got here, Roughin It had just left 20 minutes prior. He hiked on to the next shelter as he is trying to make it home in a few days to meet up with some friends and sister's graduation. In the shelter though was a guy I had never seen before. I was a little taken back. I noticed he had what looked like the end of a gun coming out of his sleeping bag. I was ready for others to get here even though I was having a good conversation with this guy. Probably caused I didn't want him to pull a gun on me. Donner rolled in about 10 minutes after me. That was a little relief. Then Uncle J-Bird, Fish, and Gravy Crockett (yes with a G not a D) came up. It was the first time I had met them.
They also had a bloodhound dog with them that was way under weight. They said they found it at the last shelter and were going to take in into Marion, VA in order to get it some help and food.
With the five of us here, I now felt a little better. I will say the guy was cool to speak with. Just seeing the end of a gun coming out of a sleeping bag had me a little hesitant. Someone mentioned we should go get fire wood and that is when the guy says he has a machete. What the heck, he has a gun and a machete?? What is he doing out here? He pulled it out and started to chop larger pieces of wood with it. While chopping he tells the five of us that he has a pellet gun. This is when he proceeds to pull it out of his sleeping bag. Whew, at least it wasn't a real gun. Next thing I know, we are all taking turns shooting it at a can on a log. Maybe I need to hang out with this guy more often.
Over the next few hours many more hikers showed up including SB, DM, SR, and TW. I was glad to see them and vice versa. They apologized for not hiking on last night. It was no big deal as we are all out here to hike our own hike. Plus, I got to hike a shorter day. Cowgirl and her dog Kelly also showed up. Well that set Hurricane, the newly adopted bloodhound, off. She would not stop barking. So Fish and J-Bird ended up packing up their stuff and moving on. They didn't want to disrupt anything around the shelter.
All made dinner just in time before the rain. I am in the shelter tonight with others including SB and TW. I ended up getting my own space as the shelter is two levels on each side with a fire place in the middle. I just hope this metal roof will keep me dry and not leak. I guess we will find out in the morning.
We got word that DS left Damascus today with Dr. Beefstick. Hopefully they will catch up with us soon.
Overall today was good. It was a short day of hiking; I got great trail magic; and I got to shoot a pellet gun. Sweetness!
April 23 - 23.2 / 502.5
I am a day late in getting this blog typed up. I started out this morning being the fourth out of the shelter area out of the 20 or so that were there. I passed Cowgirl for a few minutes and then went on. Cowgirl is one of the few out here that has a dog with him/her. Her's is a border colley. It is very well trained, and everyone enjoys having it around.
I was climbing to the top of Whitetop Mountain, about a 2,000 foot climb, when I realized that I had left my camp shoes at the last shelter. They were croc look alikes that I had just bought in Damascus two days earlier for $5. Knowing that a storm was supposed to be coming in, knowing that I was almost to the top of a good climb, and knowing that I didn't want to hike an additional three hours for the day, I decided to leave them at the shelter and hike on. I crossed my fingers that someone else would pick them up for me.
I got to the top of Whitetop, but the view was blocked by the fog and haze so I hiked on. From Whitetop, the AT goes on the side Mt. Rogers but not up to the top. Mt. Rogers is the highest peak in VA at 5,729 feet.
Around Mt. Rogers, Skyrocket (changed from Skywalker) caught up to me. The two of us hiked on toward Thomas Knob Shelter. We knew ponies were in sight. The NPS introduced ponies into the area some years ago to graze in the Grayson Highlands. They will approach hikers and are known to have taken hiker's pack in search of food. As we got closer to the shelter, we could see some ponies up on a ridge. We pressed on to the shelter thinking some would be there. TW, DM, and SB soon got to the shelter, and we all ate lunch. It was pretty cold and windy at the shelter so I got out of there pretty quickly. The others stayed a little longer. I know TW, SR, and Cowgirl walked over to the ridge to play with the ponies. Cowgirl ended up getting a video of one of the baby ponies running and jumping in her lap.
The Grayson Highlands were pretty cool other than the rocks we had to step over. The weather cleared enough to offer some great views. I plan to go back in the future during a summer to really experience the Highlands. I met Prophet as I was hiking through the Highlands. He is from Indiana. That's all I have on him.
After crossing the Highlands, the trail descended to Wise Shelter. Akido Joe was the only one at the shelter when I arrived. I took a break and debated on pushing on. Earlier, we decided that we were going to go for 23 miles to the Old Orchard Shelter. No one else had showed up for about 45 minutes. I felt good so I pushed on thinking the others would be right behind me. The next few miles weren't that bad, but my feet started to hurt. I got some new blisters coming into Damascus, and I could really feel them the last few miles. One is on the tip of my right big toe and the second is on the side of my right heel. Not wanting to walk much further I was glad to be at the shelter. Also there were Sofa King, Donner, Roughin It, and We'll See. I made my dinner in the dark, spoke with the others, and went to bed.
The other four ended up not making it in. I was surprised, but they would end up catching up to me the next day.
I was climbing to the top of Whitetop Mountain, about a 2,000 foot climb, when I realized that I had left my camp shoes at the last shelter. They were croc look alikes that I had just bought in Damascus two days earlier for $5. Knowing that a storm was supposed to be coming in, knowing that I was almost to the top of a good climb, and knowing that I didn't want to hike an additional three hours for the day, I decided to leave them at the shelter and hike on. I crossed my fingers that someone else would pick them up for me.
I got to the top of Whitetop, but the view was blocked by the fog and haze so I hiked on. From Whitetop, the AT goes on the side Mt. Rogers but not up to the top. Mt. Rogers is the highest peak in VA at 5,729 feet.
Around Mt. Rogers, Skyrocket (changed from Skywalker) caught up to me. The two of us hiked on toward Thomas Knob Shelter. We knew ponies were in sight. The NPS introduced ponies into the area some years ago to graze in the Grayson Highlands. They will approach hikers and are known to have taken hiker's pack in search of food. As we got closer to the shelter, we could see some ponies up on a ridge. We pressed on to the shelter thinking some would be there. TW, DM, and SB soon got to the shelter, and we all ate lunch. It was pretty cold and windy at the shelter so I got out of there pretty quickly. The others stayed a little longer. I know TW, SR, and Cowgirl walked over to the ridge to play with the ponies. Cowgirl ended up getting a video of one of the baby ponies running and jumping in her lap.
The Grayson Highlands were pretty cool other than the rocks we had to step over. The weather cleared enough to offer some great views. I plan to go back in the future during a summer to really experience the Highlands. I met Prophet as I was hiking through the Highlands. He is from Indiana. That's all I have on him.
After crossing the Highlands, the trail descended to Wise Shelter. Akido Joe was the only one at the shelter when I arrived. I took a break and debated on pushing on. Earlier, we decided that we were going to go for 23 miles to the Old Orchard Shelter. No one else had showed up for about 45 minutes. I felt good so I pushed on thinking the others would be right behind me. The next few miles weren't that bad, but my feet started to hurt. I got some new blisters coming into Damascus, and I could really feel them the last few miles. One is on the tip of my right big toe and the second is on the side of my right heel. Not wanting to walk much further I was glad to be at the shelter. Also there were Sofa King, Donner, Roughin It, and We'll See. I made my dinner in the dark, spoke with the others, and went to bed.
The other four ended up not making it in. I was surprised, but they would end up catching up to me the next day.
Saturday, April 24, 2010
April 22 - 15.8 / 479.3
I meant to mention that I bought a kilt yesterday. Yes a kilt and not a skirt! It is made by Mountain Hardwear. I tried it out today sans anything underneath. It was definitely an experience, but I think I might get some compression shorts to wear with them.
My new buckle broke this morning as I was packing up this morning. I went back to the outfitter to get another one. Jeff, the guy working there was cool and didn't charge me again. However, I gave him 5 dollars for the two buckles and the mattress patch. He kept telling me I didn't have to give him anything, but I felt like I had to give hime something. We spoke for a little bit more about the kilts. He ended up being really cool to talk to.
I headed out fairly late in the morning. The trail wasn't too bad. However, I wish the trail would have been along the Virginia Creeper Trail. The VC is an old railroad bed that follows a river. I could look down from the AT and see people walking and riding their bikes. I want to come back at a future date and hike or ride along the VC. Some people actually did hike the VC as it meets back up with the AT about 12 miles down the way. They said they stopped in a small town which had a deli and some ice cream. It wouls take a lot for me to skip that much of the AT and still say I hiked it. That is the difference between a purest thru hiker and not. There are some other things such as slack packing too.
The shelter that night was really nice. I think we had about 10 people it in with room to spare. There were probably 10 to 15 more tenting or in their hammock. The whole gang was there less DS and SS. DS stayed in Damascus waiting on a package and to rest some blisters. SS is still a few days back as he is meeting his parents in Damascus on Friday.
Also at the shelter were Ringleader, Lightning, and Money. They go by The Circus and are actually making a documentary as they hike. I have not been interviewed, but I did get in some footage as I walked across a bridge.
My new buckle broke this morning as I was packing up this morning. I went back to the outfitter to get another one. Jeff, the guy working there was cool and didn't charge me again. However, I gave him 5 dollars for the two buckles and the mattress patch. He kept telling me I didn't have to give him anything, but I felt like I had to give hime something. We spoke for a little bit more about the kilts. He ended up being really cool to talk to.
I headed out fairly late in the morning. The trail wasn't too bad. However, I wish the trail would have been along the Virginia Creeper Trail. The VC is an old railroad bed that follows a river. I could look down from the AT and see people walking and riding their bikes. I want to come back at a future date and hike or ride along the VC. Some people actually did hike the VC as it meets back up with the AT about 12 miles down the way. They said they stopped in a small town which had a deli and some ice cream. It wouls take a lot for me to skip that much of the AT and still say I hiked it. That is the difference between a purest thru hiker and not. There are some other things such as slack packing too.
The shelter that night was really nice. I think we had about 10 people it in with room to spare. There were probably 10 to 15 more tenting or in their hammock. The whole gang was there less DS and SS. DS stayed in Damascus waiting on a package and to rest some blisters. SS is still a few days back as he is meeting his parents in Damascus on Friday.
Also at the shelter were Ringleader, Lightning, and Money. They go by The Circus and are actually making a documentary as they hike. I have not been interviewed, but I did get in some footage as I walked across a bridge.
April 20 & 21 - 32.9 / 463.5
Whose radio is going off as an alarm? That was the thought going through my head. Then the music got louder and louder and didn't turn off. I was so confused at what was going on. Then out of the corner of my eye I see some shadowy figures crossing the trail in front of the shelter. I realized it was DS, DM, SW, TW, and SB doing their 40 mile hike into Damascus. SB had hooked up his ipod to some speakers and had it playing for everyone as they hiked. They began their hike around 3 in the morning and made it to my shelter by 5:25. I got out of my sleeping bag and told DS and SW I would catch up with them later. They walked on, and I feel back asleep.
I woke up around 6:30 and started to get ready. That is when Akido Joe said Roughin It was not there. Without anyone hearing it, Roughin It had got up around 3 to hike 33 miles into Damascus. I had thought about that too, but felt I would probably only hike 23 to the last shelter before the town. I was the next to last to leave the shelter. For some reason, I take some time packing up.
It wasn't too long before I was passing the others from the shelter. I was setting a pretty good pace. The last one to pass was Scruggs. He was sitting on the side of the trail resting and eating lunch. It wasn't 500 yards pass him that something magical happened. I see a sign on a tree and a huge metal orange box...TRAIL MAGIC! It was from the kids at Nelson Chapel Baptist Church. Inside the box was soft drinks and oatmeal cream pies. I grabbed an RC Cola and two pies.
I soon crossed a road and the trail opened up. For the next mile or so the trail crossed through an open field. The old buildings and green green grass was perfect. I took some pics and moved on.
I made it to Double Springs Shelter around 2 and had lunch. I had 7 or so miles to go to the last shelter. I told myself that I was going to hike on to the city if the shelter was full. If not I would make a decision to hike on by 5 pm. I got to the shelter. The only person in the shelter was Missionary and soon after Boston showed up. I spoke with Missionary for about 30 minutes. He is a born again christian. It was cool to hear his story. He now is trying to get the word out about teenage pregnancy and fatherhood.
At 5:00, I decided I had the energy to make the last 10 miles into Damascus. I think at some points I was running down the trail. With four miles to go, I crossed into Virginia. That makes 3 states down and 11 to go. I made it into town right after 8. As I started to walk down the first road a lady came out of her house and asked if I saw a bear. I told her I had not. She responded with telling me the guy 4 minutes before me did. The guy in front of me was Scruggs. I spoke with the lady a little more. Her and her husband hiked the trail a few years back.
Not knowing where the rest of the crew was, I decided I would hike to the center of town and call someone. I saw Cowgirl's dog, Kelly, laying outside of a restaurant so I figured hikers would be there. I walked up to the window and in the first booth was everyone. I was glad to see them. Since all of us were in town, I hiked 33 in a day and the others hiked 40. We celebrated, but were also exhausted. We finished dinner and then went to a hostel ran by one of the local churches.
Not ready for bed, DM, SB, and I went to a bar and played darts.
The next day was a zero for all of us. In the morning I went and got coffee and had a huge breakfast. I also went to an outfitter to get my pack fixed and also my air mattress fixed. A buckle on my pack had broken a few days back. My mattress got a hole in it two days ago. The outfitter fixed both for free. The rest of the day was spent at the library uploading pictures and relaxing. All of us plus Roughin It and less SB went back to Quincy's again for dinner. I ate way to much. Skywalker also got hustled by a 10 year old at pool. The 10 year old was pretty funny and definitely talked the trash.
I got a chance to speak with my Young Life kids. As part of the skit, Dalton called me on a speaker phone. They would ask me questions. It was fun to hear from all of them.
I woke up around 6:30 and started to get ready. That is when Akido Joe said Roughin It was not there. Without anyone hearing it, Roughin It had got up around 3 to hike 33 miles into Damascus. I had thought about that too, but felt I would probably only hike 23 to the last shelter before the town. I was the next to last to leave the shelter. For some reason, I take some time packing up.
It wasn't too long before I was passing the others from the shelter. I was setting a pretty good pace. The last one to pass was Scruggs. He was sitting on the side of the trail resting and eating lunch. It wasn't 500 yards pass him that something magical happened. I see a sign on a tree and a huge metal orange box...TRAIL MAGIC! It was from the kids at Nelson Chapel Baptist Church. Inside the box was soft drinks and oatmeal cream pies. I grabbed an RC Cola and two pies.
I soon crossed a road and the trail opened up. For the next mile or so the trail crossed through an open field. The old buildings and green green grass was perfect. I took some pics and moved on.
I made it to Double Springs Shelter around 2 and had lunch. I had 7 or so miles to go to the last shelter. I told myself that I was going to hike on to the city if the shelter was full. If not I would make a decision to hike on by 5 pm. I got to the shelter. The only person in the shelter was Missionary and soon after Boston showed up. I spoke with Missionary for about 30 minutes. He is a born again christian. It was cool to hear his story. He now is trying to get the word out about teenage pregnancy and fatherhood.
At 5:00, I decided I had the energy to make the last 10 miles into Damascus. I think at some points I was running down the trail. With four miles to go, I crossed into Virginia. That makes 3 states down and 11 to go. I made it into town right after 8. As I started to walk down the first road a lady came out of her house and asked if I saw a bear. I told her I had not. She responded with telling me the guy 4 minutes before me did. The guy in front of me was Scruggs. I spoke with the lady a little more. Her and her husband hiked the trail a few years back.
Not knowing where the rest of the crew was, I decided I would hike to the center of town and call someone. I saw Cowgirl's dog, Kelly, laying outside of a restaurant so I figured hikers would be there. I walked up to the window and in the first booth was everyone. I was glad to see them. Since all of us were in town, I hiked 33 in a day and the others hiked 40. We celebrated, but were also exhausted. We finished dinner and then went to a hostel ran by one of the local churches.
Not ready for bed, DM, SB, and I went to a bar and played darts.
The next day was a zero for all of us. In the morning I went and got coffee and had a huge breakfast. I also went to an outfitter to get my pack fixed and also my air mattress fixed. A buckle on my pack had broken a few days back. My mattress got a hole in it two days ago. The outfitter fixed both for free. The rest of the day was spent at the library uploading pictures and relaxing. All of us plus Roughin It and less SB went back to Quincy's again for dinner. I ate way to much. Skywalker also got hustled by a 10 year old at pool. The 10 year old was pretty funny and definitely talked the trash.
I got a chance to speak with my Young Life kids. As part of the skit, Dalton called me on a speaker phone. They would ask me questions. It was fun to hear from all of them.
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