Zero Mile Day!
Had a lovely Zero Day in Hot Springs, NC, population 643 – no kidding. This is a very small town, but it’s very compact, the A.T. literally runs right down Main Street, and it has everything a hiker needs:
Places to stay (albeit not very Fancy, in fact Motel 6 would put them to shame), places to eat (cheap and good), a laundromat, an ice cream shop (yummy!), a Post Office, and a really good outfitter.
It also had some very quaint homes and business which I took pictures of during my self-guided walking tour. I felt really lousy when I woke up this morning, but after a day of relaxation, no hiking, lots of food, I feel much better. I’ll get a fresh start tomorrow morning.
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
April 15, 2008: Walnut Mountain Shelter to Hot Springs, NC
Miles Hiked: 13.1
Total Miles: 270.7
Well, as one could imagine, it was hard to get going in the morning after no sleep and in 26 degree temperatures. I drank a lukewarm cup of coffee, ate a couple of handfuls of trail mix, and it took what seemed like forever to get packed up and on the trail. I think it was actually about 9:00 a.m. when I started walking.
Another half-marathon day and I got to Hot Springs at almost exactly 5:00 pm. Given that I felt like a sleep-walking zombie with aching feet, not bad. No real highlights to report, but I was so tired, hungry, and hurting, I probably would have overlooked the second coming of Jesus Christ unless it happened 3 feet or less in front of me on the trail.
The first thing on the road when I got to town was a Dollar General Store. Since every article of clothing in my possession was filthy and stinky from 10 days on the trail, I promptly went in the Dollar General, and for $26.00, purchased a t-shirt, socks, underwear, and jeans. I wore my new town clothes to dinner that night and the next day, until I was able to do laundry. I then mailed my new “town clothes” on to my next stop in Erwin, TN where I will use them again.
Total Miles: 270.7
Well, as one could imagine, it was hard to get going in the morning after no sleep and in 26 degree temperatures. I drank a lukewarm cup of coffee, ate a couple of handfuls of trail mix, and it took what seemed like forever to get packed up and on the trail. I think it was actually about 9:00 a.m. when I started walking.
Another half-marathon day and I got to Hot Springs at almost exactly 5:00 pm. Given that I felt like a sleep-walking zombie with aching feet, not bad. No real highlights to report, but I was so tired, hungry, and hurting, I probably would have overlooked the second coming of Jesus Christ unless it happened 3 feet or less in front of me on the trail.
The first thing on the road when I got to town was a Dollar General Store. Since every article of clothing in my possession was filthy and stinky from 10 days on the trail, I promptly went in the Dollar General, and for $26.00, purchased a t-shirt, socks, underwear, and jeans. I wore my new town clothes to dinner that night and the next day, until I was able to do laundry. I then mailed my new “town clothes” on to my next stop in Erwin, TN where I will use them again.
April 14, 2008: Groundhog Creek Shelter to Walnut Mountain Shelter, NC
Miles Hiked: 13.1
Total Miles: 257.6
A cold, windy, snowy, late winter day today. L long half-marathon trudge.
It was necessary to do this long day in order to make it to Hot Springs the following day. And, I wanted that quite badly have not been to town for nearly 10 days now.
The high point of the day, literally and figuratively, was Max Patch. Max Patch is a huge bald of over 300 acres atop a 4,300 foot mountain. Even in the snow, the views were stunning.
This evening at Walnut Mountain was the night of the Famed “Bear Attack”. But I have already posted the complete details of this horrific event. So, I will not repeat myself here.
Total Miles: 257.6
A cold, windy, snowy, late winter day today. L long half-marathon trudge.
It was necessary to do this long day in order to make it to Hot Springs the following day. And, I wanted that quite badly have not been to town for nearly 10 days now.
The high point of the day, literally and figuratively, was Max Patch. Max Patch is a huge bald of over 300 acres atop a 4,300 foot mountain. Even in the snow, the views were stunning.
This evening at Walnut Mountain was the night of the Famed “Bear Attack”. But I have already posted the complete details of this horrific event. So, I will not repeat myself here.
April 13, 2008: Standing Bear Farm, Hartford, TN to Groundhog Creek Shelter, TN
Miles Hiked: 7.2
Total Miles: 244.5
Had a really good nights sleep in the bunkhouse at the Standing Bear Farm. Had thought about taking a zero day, but felt so good that I decided instead to take a late start from the Farm (left about 11:00 a.m.) and just hike a few miles.
So, I just went 7.2 miles to the first shelter at Ground Hog Creek. There I met up with Willow, Gentleman Jack, and Southpaw, who I would hike with for the next several days.
It was the usual tough uphill slug out of a low re-supply point – about a 2,5000 foot uphill climb for the day. No rain or snow, just kind of gray today.
This evening Jack and Willow tented leaving only me and Southpaw in the shelter. Turns out he’s a retired Navy E8, about 6 or 7 years older than me. Just old enough to have served in Vietnam, on the river boats no less: ala “Apocalypse Now!”, and is still somewhat haunted by the experience. It was a good man-to-man, heart-to-heart talk.
Total Miles: 244.5
Had a really good nights sleep in the bunkhouse at the Standing Bear Farm. Had thought about taking a zero day, but felt so good that I decided instead to take a late start from the Farm (left about 11:00 a.m.) and just hike a few miles.
So, I just went 7.2 miles to the first shelter at Ground Hog Creek. There I met up with Willow, Gentleman Jack, and Southpaw, who I would hike with for the next several days.
It was the usual tough uphill slug out of a low re-supply point – about a 2,5000 foot uphill climb for the day. No rain or snow, just kind of gray today.
This evening Jack and Willow tented leaving only me and Southpaw in the shelter. Turns out he’s a retired Navy E8, about 6 or 7 years older than me. Just old enough to have served in Vietnam, on the river boats no less: ala “Apocalypse Now!”, and is still somewhat haunted by the experience. It was a good man-to-man, heart-to-heart talk.
April 12, 2008: Tri Corner Knob Shelter GSMNP, NC to Standing Bear Farm, TN
Miles Hiked: 18.1
Total Miles: 237.3
Wow, hiked 18.1 miles today all the way out of the GSMNP and to the Standing Bear Farm Hikers Hostel.
The day started out with rain and thunderstorms while I was making breakfast in the shelter but it never actually rained on me out on the trail as I hiked. In fact, by mid afternoon, the sun was shining and the temperature was in the mid-70’s as I was dropping elevation rapidly.
As I left the park, I saw perhaps the most beautiful area I’ve seen so far, the crossing of the Pigeon River. Beautiful streams, spring in full bloom, flowers everywhere, water falls, butterflies. It was gorgeous. The Lord and the Lady truly live here! I hope my pictures come out.
I slept in this morning at the farm. What a neat rustic place! Got a hot shower – old school style – last night. Did not get to wash clothes, but only 2 ½ days from Hot Springs, so I’ll survive.
Expecting rain and snow for the next two days, then warmer weather.
Total Miles: 237.3
Wow, hiked 18.1 miles today all the way out of the GSMNP and to the Standing Bear Farm Hikers Hostel.
The day started out with rain and thunderstorms while I was making breakfast in the shelter but it never actually rained on me out on the trail as I hiked. In fact, by mid afternoon, the sun was shining and the temperature was in the mid-70’s as I was dropping elevation rapidly.
As I left the park, I saw perhaps the most beautiful area I’ve seen so far, the crossing of the Pigeon River. Beautiful streams, spring in full bloom, flowers everywhere, water falls, butterflies. It was gorgeous. The Lord and the Lady truly live here! I hope my pictures come out.
I slept in this morning at the farm. What a neat rustic place! Got a hot shower – old school style – last night. Did not get to wash clothes, but only 2 ½ days from Hot Springs, so I’ll survive.
Expecting rain and snow for the next two days, then warmer weather.
Monday, April 21, 2008
April 11, 2008: Ice Water Spring Shelter to Tri-Corner Knob Shelter
Miles Hiked: 12.6
Total Miles: 219.2
Did 12.6 miles today including going over Mt. Sequoyah, 6,069 feet and Mt. Chapman at 6,417 feet. It was foggy, misty, and very windy all day. I really thought it would rain, but the my weather God was with me for the 5th straight day. I got thru my hike, into camp, set up, ate dinner, and settled in to bed for the night before the rain finally started.
I really do believe I’ve found my trail legs here in the Smokies.
Tonight I’m sharing the shelter with two other thru-hikers and four section hikers. We’ve got a fire going in the fireplace and it’s really quite cozy. The word is that the temperature is supposed to drop dramatically tonight. Maybe into the 20’s. So I’m bundling up.
It’s only 16 miles out of the park and only 18 miles to the Standing Bear Farm Hostel. I’m going to go for it tomorrow, I do believe. It’s mostly downhill!
And a warm bed and shower await me at the end if I make it!!
Total Miles: 219.2
Did 12.6 miles today including going over Mt. Sequoyah, 6,069 feet and Mt. Chapman at 6,417 feet. It was foggy, misty, and very windy all day. I really thought it would rain, but the my weather God was with me for the 5th straight day. I got thru my hike, into camp, set up, ate dinner, and settled in to bed for the night before the rain finally started.
I really do believe I’ve found my trail legs here in the Smokies.
Tonight I’m sharing the shelter with two other thru-hikers and four section hikers. We’ve got a fire going in the fireplace and it’s really quite cozy. The word is that the temperature is supposed to drop dramatically tonight. Maybe into the 20’s. So I’m bundling up.
It’s only 16 miles out of the park and only 18 miles to the Standing Bear Farm Hostel. I’m going to go for it tomorrow, I do believe. It’s mostly downhill!
And a warm bed and shower await me at the end if I make it!!
April 10, 2008: Double Spring Gap Shelter to Ice Water Spring Shelter
Great Smoky Mountain National Park (GSMNP) NC
Daily Miles: 13.8
Total Miles 206.6
I believe I earned my Hiker boots today. Several firsts: Longest day so far with 14 miles. Hiked over the highest point on the entire AT, Clingman’s Dome at 6,643 feet. Have now hiked more than 200 miles total. And now have less than 2,000 miles left to go to Katahdin. So, I am a real thru-hiker now! And I feel pretty good at the end of the day to boot!
It was another beautiful, warm sunny day in the Smokies. Amazing – 4th day in a row.
Made camp tonight with two very nice ladies in their 50’s who are section hikers. They are slowly but surely section hiking all of the AT. They shared stores of various hiker characters they’ve met over the years. It was quite entertaining!
In addition to climbing over the Dome, a high point of the day, was going thru Newfound Gap and tourist-watching for a few minutes. It was also fun to reflect back on the great times my wife and I have had hiking in the GSMNP in years past. I really wish she could be here hiking with me now. Oh well, she is always with me in my heart.
Daily Miles: 13.8
Total Miles 206.6
I believe I earned my Hiker boots today. Several firsts: Longest day so far with 14 miles. Hiked over the highest point on the entire AT, Clingman’s Dome at 6,643 feet. Have now hiked more than 200 miles total. And now have less than 2,000 miles left to go to Katahdin. So, I am a real thru-hiker now! And I feel pretty good at the end of the day to boot!
It was another beautiful, warm sunny day in the Smokies. Amazing – 4th day in a row.
Made camp tonight with two very nice ladies in their 50’s who are section hikers. They are slowly but surely section hiking all of the AT. They shared stores of various hiker characters they’ve met over the years. It was quite entertaining!
In addition to climbing over the Dome, a high point of the day, was going thru Newfound Gap and tourist-watching for a few minutes. It was also fun to reflect back on the great times my wife and I have had hiking in the GSMNP in years past. I really wish she could be here hiking with me now. Oh well, she is always with me in my heart.
April 9, 2008: Derrick’s Knob shelter to Double Spring Gap Shelter
Great Smoky Mountain National Park (GSMNP) NC
Daily Miles: 6.3
Total Miles: 192.8
Short day today. Given the spacing of the shelters in the GSMNP, and hikers must stay at shelters, my alternative was to go 14 miles. I felt pretty worn out from the previous two days of 12 miles each and I just did not think I had a 14 miler in me yet, especially considering that it would have included summitting Clingman’s Dome at 6,620 feet, the tallest peak on the entire Appalachian Trail. I opted to take a short day today and rest up a bit before taking on Clingman’s tomorrow morning.
I also wanted to rest my right knee a bit. It has been bothering me a little ever since the NOC descent. I asked some other hikers about this and they suggested I start using two poles instead of just one. I’ll give that a try as soon as I can, though won’t be till Hot Springs in about a week or so.
Anyway, got into camp at about 1:30 p.m. today – super early for me. It was more like 6:30 p.m. the previous two days. Felt great to just relax, catch up on my journal, etc.
Daily Miles: 6.3
Total Miles: 192.8
Short day today. Given the spacing of the shelters in the GSMNP, and hikers must stay at shelters, my alternative was to go 14 miles. I felt pretty worn out from the previous two days of 12 miles each and I just did not think I had a 14 miler in me yet, especially considering that it would have included summitting Clingman’s Dome at 6,620 feet, the tallest peak on the entire Appalachian Trail. I opted to take a short day today and rest up a bit before taking on Clingman’s tomorrow morning.
I also wanted to rest my right knee a bit. It has been bothering me a little ever since the NOC descent. I asked some other hikers about this and they suggested I start using two poles instead of just one. I’ll give that a try as soon as I can, though won’t be till Hot Springs in about a week or so.
Anyway, got into camp at about 1:30 p.m. today – super early for me. It was more like 6:30 p.m. the previous two days. Felt great to just relax, catch up on my journal, etc.
April 8, 2008: Mollie’s Ridge Shelter to Derrick’s Knob Shelter
Great Smoky Mountain National Park (GSMNP) NC
Daily Miles: 12.6
Total Miles: 186.5
Elevation gain today at the end of the day was only 300 feet, but it was a very tough day with several 700’-1000’ elevation gains and losses; lots of steep up’s and down’s.
There is awesomely beautiful scenery along the way. I took many pictures that I hope come out. Again today, it was sunny and unseasonably warm – More like when my wife and I hiked here last August than what I expected in early April. Bit, I’ll gladly take this over freezing in the rain or the snow.
Physically, it is still very challenging. Not impossible – but tough, especially carrying a heavy load of 7 days, plus 1 spare day of supplies.
Daily Miles: 12.6
Total Miles: 186.5
Elevation gain today at the end of the day was only 300 feet, but it was a very tough day with several 700’-1000’ elevation gains and losses; lots of steep up’s and down’s.
There is awesomely beautiful scenery along the way. I took many pictures that I hope come out. Again today, it was sunny and unseasonably warm – More like when my wife and I hiked here last August than what I expected in early April. Bit, I’ll gladly take this over freezing in the rain or the snow.
Physically, it is still very challenging. Not impossible – but tough, especially carrying a heavy load of 7 days, plus 1 spare day of supplies.
April 7, 2008: Fontana Village (Dam) to Mollie’s Ridge Shelter
Great Smoky Mountain National Park (GSMNP) NC
Daily Miles: 11.0
Total Miles: 173.9
Hiked the blue blaze around the Dam because it is under construction. So, hikers were not allowed to walk across the top of the Dam. It was all uphill, today, of course, with a total elevation gain of 2,870 feet.
It was really warm and sunny today. I’d prayed to my weather God for good weather in the Smokies, and I got it, at least for the first day. I bet it was a record high temp, or near to it. My thermometer read in the upper 70’s.
I think I took a wrong turn on the blue blaze around the Dam and as a result, I ended up right at the very north edge of the Dam and the very southern entrance of the Park, which was cool. I took lots of pictures today.
Daily Miles: 11.0
Total Miles: 173.9
Hiked the blue blaze around the Dam because it is under construction. So, hikers were not allowed to walk across the top of the Dam. It was all uphill, today, of course, with a total elevation gain of 2,870 feet.
It was really warm and sunny today. I’d prayed to my weather God for good weather in the Smokies, and I got it, at least for the first day. I bet it was a record high temp, or near to it. My thermometer read in the upper 70’s.
I think I took a wrong turn on the blue blaze around the Dam and as a result, I ended up right at the very north edge of the Dam and the very southern entrance of the Park, which was cool. I took lots of pictures today.
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
Bear Attack !!!
This IS a true story!
On Monday, April 14, 2008, I hiked approx 13.5 miles to the Walnut Mountain Shelter which is located on the North Carolina / Tennessee border north of the Great Smokey Mountain National Park and about 14 miles south (via the A.T.) of Hot Springs, North Carolina. It was lightly snowing all day, windy, and cold. I was hiking with three buddies of a few years older in age than myself Miss Willow, Gentleman Jack, and Southpaw. We got to the shelter at about 6 pm. It was getting even colder, even windier, and even snowier. There was an ominous note pinned to the shelter wall. It warned us of an aggressive bear and told us to hang our food bags high and well. We looked around and found the highest, strongest, tree branch we could and hung our bags after dinner. Then we quickly got into our sleeping bags and tried to warm ourselves against the bitter cold night.
It was not long before the attack began. At about 8:40 pm we heard the first rustling sounds outside the shelter. Shining our headlamps revealed a small bear. Bear! Bear! Get Out, Bear! We yelled and flashed our lamps and it ran off. Whew, we were safe - we thought. Back in our bags with one eye and one ear open. Then about 10:00 pm we heard more rustling outside, more scratching and clawing. Quickly followed by a loud cracking noise and a great crash. We flashed our lamps and saw that the entire tree branch had broken off and all four food bags were on the ground! Somehow the bear had climbed the tree and its weight had broken the branch.
We all four got out of our bags, went outside in our crocs, freezing in our nightclothes, and huddled trying to decide what to do. Throw all our food over the ravine and save only the bags themselves? Throw some food down the ravine and try to save the rest? Hike out now in a night blizzard (more than 10 miles to the next shelter)? Ultimately we decided that if we gave up our food bags the bears might next come after our packs in the shelter, and then after us. So we decided our best defense was to rehang the bags and try to defend them.
So we found another tree, albeit, much smaller, and lower to the ground, and rehung the bags. By 11 pm we were back in our bags. This tree was directly in front of the shelter, perhaps 15 feet from where we were sleeping and gave us a birds eye view if the bear came back. Well, at about 12:40 am the bear was back! Again we hooted, hollered and threw rocks and again it ran off. But then, at about 2:30 am an ENORMOUS bear lumbered up to the tree, rose up on its back legs and started to climb the tree. This bear was at least 5 feet tall and must have weighed at least 200 pounds. After the fact we figured the little bear must have been the cub and the big bear the mama. An it must have been mama bear that broke the limb of the first tree. Well, we screamed and hollered and threw rocks and the bear just looked at us! Finally, Gentleman Jack hit the bear with a rock and it left. The final bear attack came at about 3:10 am. We were not sure which bear it was at this time. Needless to say, little or no sleep was had that night and we were all grateful when daylight came at about 6:30 am or so.
When daylight did come and we felt safe enough to venture out of the shelter we found that the bears had in fact ripped the bottom out of one of the four food bags (Willow's). So the final score: Humans 3, Bears 1. While no one got pictures of the bears attacking that night, we all took photos the next morning of the claw marks in the tree, of the broken tree limb, and of the massive paw prints in the snow around the shelter. These pix will be sent with my next batch of photos home.
This is a night I will never forget.
the G'Town Colonel
On Monday, April 14, 2008, I hiked approx 13.5 miles to the Walnut Mountain Shelter which is located on the North Carolina / Tennessee border north of the Great Smokey Mountain National Park and about 14 miles south (via the A.T.) of Hot Springs, North Carolina. It was lightly snowing all day, windy, and cold. I was hiking with three buddies of a few years older in age than myself Miss Willow, Gentleman Jack, and Southpaw. We got to the shelter at about 6 pm. It was getting even colder, even windier, and even snowier. There was an ominous note pinned to the shelter wall. It warned us of an aggressive bear and told us to hang our food bags high and well. We looked around and found the highest, strongest, tree branch we could and hung our bags after dinner. Then we quickly got into our sleeping bags and tried to warm ourselves against the bitter cold night.
It was not long before the attack began. At about 8:40 pm we heard the first rustling sounds outside the shelter. Shining our headlamps revealed a small bear. Bear! Bear! Get Out, Bear! We yelled and flashed our lamps and it ran off. Whew, we were safe - we thought. Back in our bags with one eye and one ear open. Then about 10:00 pm we heard more rustling outside, more scratching and clawing. Quickly followed by a loud cracking noise and a great crash. We flashed our lamps and saw that the entire tree branch had broken off and all four food bags were on the ground! Somehow the bear had climbed the tree and its weight had broken the branch.
We all four got out of our bags, went outside in our crocs, freezing in our nightclothes, and huddled trying to decide what to do. Throw all our food over the ravine and save only the bags themselves? Throw some food down the ravine and try to save the rest? Hike out now in a night blizzard (more than 10 miles to the next shelter)? Ultimately we decided that if we gave up our food bags the bears might next come after our packs in the shelter, and then after us. So we decided our best defense was to rehang the bags and try to defend them.
So we found another tree, albeit, much smaller, and lower to the ground, and rehung the bags. By 11 pm we were back in our bags. This tree was directly in front of the shelter, perhaps 15 feet from where we were sleeping and gave us a birds eye view if the bear came back. Well, at about 12:40 am the bear was back! Again we hooted, hollered and threw rocks and again it ran off. But then, at about 2:30 am an ENORMOUS bear lumbered up to the tree, rose up on its back legs and started to climb the tree. This bear was at least 5 feet tall and must have weighed at least 200 pounds. After the fact we figured the little bear must have been the cub and the big bear the mama. An it must have been mama bear that broke the limb of the first tree. Well, we screamed and hollered and threw rocks and the bear just looked at us! Finally, Gentleman Jack hit the bear with a rock and it left. The final bear attack came at about 3:10 am. We were not sure which bear it was at this time. Needless to say, little or no sleep was had that night and we were all grateful when daylight came at about 6:30 am or so.
When daylight did come and we felt safe enough to venture out of the shelter we found that the bears had in fact ripped the bottom out of one of the four food bags (Willow's). So the final score: Humans 3, Bears 1. While no one got pictures of the bears attacking that night, we all took photos the next morning of the claw marks in the tree, of the broken tree limb, and of the massive paw prints in the snow around the shelter. These pix will be sent with my next batch of photos home.
This is a night I will never forget.
the G'Town Colonel
Saturday, April 12, 2008
Out of the Smokies
I was out in the pasture with the animals when the G-Town Colonel called at 6:30 p.m. He is out of the Great Smoky Mountain National Park (alive) and is somewhere in Tennesee. He received his re=supply package, so I assume he made it to the Post Office today (Saturday) before it closed. The cell phone reception was really bad; he hopes to call again collect.
Friday, April 11, 2008
Thursday, April 10, 2008
Heading to Fontana Dam
Hiked 18.2 miles during this period ending in Fontana Village with a total of 162.6 miles
April 3, 2008
NOC, NC to Locust Cove Gap, NC
Left the NOC at about 9:00 a.m. today after finding that the USPS Express Mail pouch with my 2nd long sleeve under armor t-shirt did not arrive L. Oh well, hopefully can buy one at Fontana Dam.
Had a tough 10.5 mile hike today with 3,500 feet of elevation gain climbing out of the NOC at Nantahala River to the top of Cheoah Bald. As usual, it was foggy, cold (40’s) and raining all day again today.
In an attempt to get to the Post Office at Fontana Dam on Saturday by 12 noon closing, I pushed 4 miles past the first shelter and camped out with my trail buddy Fire Sox at Locust Cove Gap. Because of the rain, I had to bring my pack into my tent. I also had to site quite hastily due to losing daylight resulting in selecting a slightly unlevel sight.
April 4, 2008
Locust Cove Gap to Brown Fork Gap Shelter, NC
Only went 6 miles today. Got a really poor nights sleet last night camped out in the rain and cold. Had another really steep 750 foot climb over a ¾ mile stretch this morning that really kicked my butt after the tough day yesterday and the poor nights sleep. Also felt a migraine coming on – took my medicine and it went away (whew!). The kicker – it was rainy, foggy, windy, and cold again today.
Upshot of it all – I packed it in early and staked out a warm corner in the first shelter I hit today.
I’ll likely still get to Fontana Dam on Saturday April 5 – on schedule, BUT not till late in the afternoon. This means I will not be able to get my mail drop re-supply until Monday morning.
The upsot – I’ll be forced to take a ZERO day on Sunday in Fontana. Probably just as well. I think my body could use the extra rest before taking on the Smokey’s.
April 5-6, 2008
Brown Fork Gap Shelter to Fontana Dam
Left Brown Fork Gap at 7:30 a.m. and finished a 12-mile day at Fontana Dam (NC Hwy 28) at approx. 3:30 p.m. Once again, it was foggy, rainy, dreary day but not quite as bad as the previous 2 days. I was starting to road walk the 2 miles to Fontana Village where I would spend Saturday night and all day Sunday, and Sunday night. I’d gone less than ¼ mile when a very nice young man gave me a ride right up to the registration desk at the village.
I had many aches and pains on Saturday night – especially my right knee and my back. I’m now really glad I’ll be taking a full day off on Sunday (a ZERO in hiker talk meaning 0 miles for the day). My 51-year-old, out-of-trail-shape body can definitely use the rest.
It’s now Sunday evening as I update my journal. I had a very quiet, restful day here in Fontana Village. The village is an interesting place. It was originally built in the 1940’s to house the 5,000 workers and their families that built the Fontana Dam. It is now a seasonal resort somewhat similar to Callaway Gardens (outside Atlanta, GA). Also of historical note, Fontana Village is the birthplace of clogging in America. The original community center has a stage and a large dance floor where the TVA Dam workers would square dance and clog on Saturday nights.
I took pictures of the “Clogging Hall of Fame”.
Also of note is that country music legend and hall of famer Ronnie Milsap got his start playing with the house band at Fontana Village back in the late 1950’s, early 1960’s
April 3, 2008
NOC, NC to Locust Cove Gap, NC
Left the NOC at about 9:00 a.m. today after finding that the USPS Express Mail pouch with my 2nd long sleeve under armor t-shirt did not arrive L. Oh well, hopefully can buy one at Fontana Dam.
Had a tough 10.5 mile hike today with 3,500 feet of elevation gain climbing out of the NOC at Nantahala River to the top of Cheoah Bald. As usual, it was foggy, cold (40’s) and raining all day again today.
In an attempt to get to the Post Office at Fontana Dam on Saturday by 12 noon closing, I pushed 4 miles past the first shelter and camped out with my trail buddy Fire Sox at Locust Cove Gap. Because of the rain, I had to bring my pack into my tent. I also had to site quite hastily due to losing daylight resulting in selecting a slightly unlevel sight.
April 4, 2008
Locust Cove Gap to Brown Fork Gap Shelter, NC
Only went 6 miles today. Got a really poor nights sleet last night camped out in the rain and cold. Had another really steep 750 foot climb over a ¾ mile stretch this morning that really kicked my butt after the tough day yesterday and the poor nights sleep. Also felt a migraine coming on – took my medicine and it went away (whew!). The kicker – it was rainy, foggy, windy, and cold again today.
Upshot of it all – I packed it in early and staked out a warm corner in the first shelter I hit today.
I’ll likely still get to Fontana Dam on Saturday April 5 – on schedule, BUT not till late in the afternoon. This means I will not be able to get my mail drop re-supply until Monday morning.
The upsot – I’ll be forced to take a ZERO day on Sunday in Fontana. Probably just as well. I think my body could use the extra rest before taking on the Smokey’s.
April 5-6, 2008
Brown Fork Gap Shelter to Fontana Dam
Left Brown Fork Gap at 7:30 a.m. and finished a 12-mile day at Fontana Dam (NC Hwy 28) at approx. 3:30 p.m. Once again, it was foggy, rainy, dreary day but not quite as bad as the previous 2 days. I was starting to road walk the 2 miles to Fontana Village where I would spend Saturday night and all day Sunday, and Sunday night. I’d gone less than ¼ mile when a very nice young man gave me a ride right up to the registration desk at the village.
I had many aches and pains on Saturday night – especially my right knee and my back. I’m now really glad I’ll be taking a full day off on Sunday (a ZERO in hiker talk meaning 0 miles for the day). My 51-year-old, out-of-trail-shape body can definitely use the rest.
It’s now Sunday evening as I update my journal. I had a very quiet, restful day here in Fontana Village. The village is an interesting place. It was originally built in the 1940’s to house the 5,000 workers and their families that built the Fontana Dam. It is now a seasonal resort somewhat similar to Callaway Gardens (outside Atlanta, GA). Also of historical note, Fontana Village is the birthplace of clogging in America. The original community center has a stage and a large dance floor where the TVA Dam workers would square dance and clog on Saturday nights.
I took pictures of the “Clogging Hall of Fame”.
Also of note is that country music legend and hall of famer Ronnie Milsap got his start playing with the house band at Fontana Village back in the late 1950’s, early 1960’s
Living Outdoors
Franklin to Nantahala
31 March –2 April (3 Days)
Franklin, NC to Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC)
Weather Conditions: Cool, Wet
Miles Hiked: 26.7
Total Miles: 133.3
The first day out of Franklin was 11 soggy, wet rough miles. Spent the night at Wayah Gap Shelter. The high point of the day was seeing my first “bald” (an open mountain-top meadow, aka Sound of Music); Silers Bald
The next day was a 10 plus miler to Wesser Bald Shelter. The weather was unexpectedly good – beautiful in fact. Took pictures of some really spectacular views from the fire tower on top of Wesser Bald looking down into the Nantahala River below. Ran into my friends Greenwood and Orangedust again at the Shelter.
On day three, had just a 6 mile, mostly down hill, hike into the NOC. Got into the NOC about 1:00 p.m. It’s a really neat place for kayaking, river rafting, biking, hiking, even getting on the railroad that goes into and through the Great Smokey Mountains. It has three restaurants, an outfitter, a 7-11, and a hostel. I spent the afternoon and evening getting clean, picking up a mail drop, eating, etc.
Franklin, NC to Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC)
Weather Conditions: Cool, Wet
Miles Hiked: 26.7
Total Miles: 133.3
The first day out of Franklin was 11 soggy, wet rough miles. Spent the night at Wayah Gap Shelter. The high point of the day was seeing my first “bald” (an open mountain-top meadow, aka Sound of Music); Silers BaldThe next day was a 10 plus miler to Wesser Bald Shelter. The weather was unexpectedly good – beautiful in fact. Took pictures of some really spectacular views from the fire tower on top of Wesser Bald looking down into the Nantahala River below. Ran into my friends Greenwood and Orangedust again at the Shelter.
On day three, had just a 6 mile, mostly down hill, hike into the NOC. Got into the NOC about 1:00 p.m. It’s a really neat place for kayaking, river rafting, biking, hiking, even getting on the railroad that goes into and through the Great Smokey Mountains. It has three restaurants, an outfitter, a 7-11, and a hostel. I spent the afternoon and evening getting clean, picking up a mail drop, eating, etc.
Wednesday, April 9, 2008
Heading to N.O.C.
26-27 March (2 Days)
Standing Indian Shelter, NC
Weather Conditions: Cool
Miles Hiked: 16.5
Total Miles: 83.1
Crossed into NC at 12 noon yesterday. Weather was great approx. 65 degrees. And partly sunny. Made over 12 miles.
Slept GREAT last night!!
Got into camp late. Still trying to get my trail legs under me, but still so far so good.
Running with a group of about 6 great folks that I met up with each night.
Standing Indian Shelter, NC
Weather Conditions: Cool
Miles Hiked: 16.5
Total Miles: 83.1
Crossed into NC at 12 noon yesterday. Weather was great approx. 65 degrees. And partly sunny. Made over 12 miles.
Slept GREAT last night!!
Got into camp late. Still trying to get my trail legs under me, but still so far so good.
Running with a group of about 6 great folks that I met up with each night.
28 March
Carter Gap Shelter, NC
Weather Conditions: Wet
Miles Hiked: 7.6
Total Miles: 90.7
Mustang Sally, Guns (Retired First Sergeant) New Song, Ghost (already a 2,000 miler) Polly Wog, shared the shelter with me.
Did 8.5 miles today vs. 11.5 miles planned because it rained today. It was my 1st day walking in the rain. I decided to stop at the shelter rather than go on to the 11.5 mile point because I knew that I could eat dry and keep my pack dry at the shelter.
I plan to do 12 miles tomorrow and get to Rock Gap Shelter rain or shine. From there it is only less than 4 miles to the US 64 road crossing which goes into Franklin, N.C.
It stopped raining just about 4:00 p.m. today, soon after I walked into camp, which was very nice. I got my boots and socks wet crossing a stream today – my pack cover got wet too. Everything else seems to have stayed dry. Hopefully my socks will air dry over night. My pack cover is already dry. We have a fire going so I think I’ll go toast my socks right now.
I’ve really loved this adventure so far. It’s been very challenging physically – more so than I expected. And it’s presented many camping challenges too – but nothing I could not handle.
Already I’ve met many, many wonderful people!!
More soon!!
29 March
Rock Gap Shelter, NC
Outside Franklin, NC
Weather Conditions: Wet, Thunder-Storm
Miles Hiked: 12.1
Total Miles: 102.8
Got an early start today – walked out of camp at 8:05 a.m.
Was rewarded for my early start by getting caught in a thunder storm at about 9:00 a.m. including pea-size hail, lots of thunder and lightning. It was scary. I was counting the seconds between the flash and the thunder and walking as fast as I could. Fortunately, the thunder storm blew over in about 20 or 30 minutes.
Otherwise, it was another gloomy, rainy day, all day, but not cold at least. The literal high point was scrambling over 5,300 foot tall Albert Mountain; a tough steep climb with a great view at the top.
Made 12.2 miles today and got into camp at 3:00 p.m. By far my best time/distance day so far. I think I’m starting to get my trail legs just a little bit.
I’m in camp tonight with Ghost (2002 thru-hiker) Roberto, Paul, Strider Tracer and their two dogs (they took the picture of me at the NC/GA state line).
We’re all heading into Franklin, NC tomorrow. I’m really looking forward to a hot shower, clean clothes, and a hot meal.
30 March
Winding Stair Gap/ US 64, Franklin, NC
Weather Conditions: 45 degrees, Cloudy, Rainy
Miles Hiked: 3.8
Total Miles: 106.6
Short day today. Broke camp early and on the trail before 8:00 a.m. for the 4 miles to Winding Stair Gap where the AT meets US Hwy 64. From there it is about 10 miles into Franklin, NC. But, it’s known that the Haven’s Budget Motel drops off and picks up AT hikers every day at 9:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. I just missed the 9:30 a.m. pick up; but, as luck would have it, a nice lady dropping off her husband and son for a section hike just arrived at the parking lot as I stumbled out of the woods – so, no waiting in the rain and cold for me – instant free shuttle to Franklin!
The high point of my day were long phone calls with my three loves: my wife Squeaky, my daughter Jennifer, and my granddaughter Evelyn.
The motel I’m staying at in Franklin (MicroTel) has a walk-up PC, so I was able to go online and visit The Colonel’s Journal. Squeaky has done a great job. The pictures of Evelyn and me on the AT at Neel’s Gap brought tears to my eyes.
Today was a good town stop. I got to the Laundromat, bought a light re-supply at the grocery store, and even got to an outfitter and got a silk liner for my sleeping bag. This critical piece of gear weighs only 4.5 ounces, yet it takes my bag from a 30 degree bag to a 20 degree bag. I really could have used that last week when it was so cold in North Georgia. But, I think I’ll need it yet when I hit the 6,000 foot elevations in the Smokey’s coming up next week.
Piggin’ out at Huddle House for dinner tonight – right across from my motel!!
Carter Gap Shelter, NC
Weather Conditions: Wet
Miles Hiked: 7.6
Total Miles: 90.7
Mustang Sally, Guns (Retired First Sergeant) New Song, Ghost (already a 2,000 miler) Polly Wog, shared the shelter with me.
Did 8.5 miles today vs. 11.5 miles planned because it rained today. It was my 1st day walking in the rain. I decided to stop at the shelter rather than go on to the 11.5 mile point because I knew that I could eat dry and keep my pack dry at the shelter.
I plan to do 12 miles tomorrow and get to Rock Gap Shelter rain or shine. From there it is only less than 4 miles to the US 64 road crossing which goes into Franklin, N.C.
It stopped raining just about 4:00 p.m. today, soon after I walked into camp, which was very nice. I got my boots and socks wet crossing a stream today – my pack cover got wet too. Everything else seems to have stayed dry. Hopefully my socks will air dry over night. My pack cover is already dry. We have a fire going so I think I’ll go toast my socks right now.
I’ve really loved this adventure so far. It’s been very challenging physically – more so than I expected. And it’s presented many camping challenges too – but nothing I could not handle.
Already I’ve met many, many wonderful people!!
More soon!!
29 March
Rock Gap Shelter, NC
Outside Franklin, NC
Weather Conditions: Wet, Thunder-Storm
Miles Hiked: 12.1
Total Miles: 102.8
Got an early start today – walked out of camp at 8:05 a.m.
Was rewarded for my early start by getting caught in a thunder storm at about 9:00 a.m. including pea-size hail, lots of thunder and lightning. It was scary. I was counting the seconds between the flash and the thunder and walking as fast as I could. Fortunately, the thunder storm blew over in about 20 or 30 minutes.
Otherwise, it was another gloomy, rainy day, all day, but not cold at least. The literal high point was scrambling over 5,300 foot tall Albert Mountain; a tough steep climb with a great view at the top.
Made 12.2 miles today and got into camp at 3:00 p.m. By far my best time/distance day so far. I think I’m starting to get my trail legs just a little bit.
I’m in camp tonight with Ghost (2002 thru-hiker) Roberto, Paul, Strider Tracer and their two dogs (they took the picture of me at the NC/GA state line).
We’re all heading into Franklin, NC tomorrow. I’m really looking forward to a hot shower, clean clothes, and a hot meal.
30 MarchWinding Stair Gap/ US 64, Franklin, NC
Weather Conditions: 45 degrees, Cloudy, Rainy
Miles Hiked: 3.8
Total Miles: 106.6
Short day today. Broke camp early and on the trail before 8:00 a.m. for the 4 miles to Winding Stair Gap where the AT meets US Hwy 64. From there it is about 10 miles into Franklin, NC. But, it’s known that the Haven’s Budget Motel drops off and picks up AT hikers every day at 9:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. I just missed the 9:30 a.m. pick up; but, as luck would have it, a nice lady dropping off her husband and son for a section hike just arrived at the parking lot as I stumbled out of the woods – so, no waiting in the rain and cold for me – instant free shuttle to Franklin!
The high point of my day were long phone calls with my three loves: my wife Squeaky, my daughter Jennifer, and my granddaughter Evelyn.
The motel I’m staying at in Franklin (MicroTel) has a walk-up PC, so I was able to go online and visit The Colonel’s Journal. Squeaky has done a great job. The pictures of Evelyn and me on the AT at Neel’s Gap brought tears to my eyes.
Today was a good town stop. I got to the Laundromat, bought a light re-supply at the grocery store, and even got to an outfitter and got a silk liner for my sleeping bag. This critical piece of gear weighs only 4.5 ounces, yet it takes my bag from a 30 degree bag to a 20 degree bag. I really could have used that last week when it was so cold in North Georgia. But, I think I’ll need it yet when I hit the 6,000 foot elevations in the Smokey’s coming up next week.
Piggin’ out at Huddle House for dinner tonight – right across from my motel!!
First Few Days
Actual Journal Entries
23-25 March (3 Days)
Neel’s Gap, GA to Dicks Gap, GA
Weather Conditions: COLD !!
Miles Hiked: 36.1
Total Miles: 66.6
1st three days. Tough going getting my trail legs, acclimating to being outside again, and fight the cold weather. Low temps of about 21 or 22 degrees both first two nights.
Met two great young men, I’ll call the “Marshall Men”, ROTC cadets from Marshall University in West Virginia at my 1st stop at Low Gap Shelter on night one. Hiked with them for the next two days. They were section hiking from Neel’s Gap to Bly Gap (GA/NC border) on their spring break from college. Very fortunately, they had their truck parked at the Hwy 76 crossig at Dicks Gap – 11 miles outside Hiawassee. So, in return for buying them dinner at Huddle House, they gave me a ride into town to spend the night. They returned to the trail to pitch tent and continue on.
First 3 days were physically very challenging just making my milage points and staying warm, so I took very few pictures and did very little journaling. I expect I’ll do much better with this as my fitness level and the weather both get better down the trail.
But, very much loving the adventure so far!!
26-27 March (2 Days)
Standing Indian Shelter, NC
Weather Conditions: WET!!
Miles Hiked: 16.5
Total Miles: 83.1
Crossed into NC at 12 noon yesterday. Weather was great approx. 65 degrees. And partly sunny. Made over 12 miles.
Slept GREAT last night!!
Got into camp late. Still trying to get my trail legs under me, but still so far so good.Running with a group of about 6 great folks that I met up with each night.
23-25 March (3 Days)
Neel’s Gap, GA to Dicks Gap, GA
Weather Conditions: COLD !!
Miles Hiked: 36.1
Total Miles: 66.6
1st three days. Tough going getting my trail legs, acclimating to being outside again, and fight the cold weather. Low temps of about 21 or 22 degrees both first two nights.
Met two great young men, I’ll call the “Marshall Men”, ROTC cadets from Marshall University in West Virginia at my 1st stop at Low Gap Shelter on night one. Hiked with them for the next two days. They were section hiking from Neel’s Gap to Bly Gap (GA/NC border) on their spring break from college. Very fortunately, they had their truck parked at the Hwy 76 crossig at Dicks Gap – 11 miles outside Hiawassee. So, in return for buying them dinner at Huddle House, they gave me a ride into town to spend the night. They returned to the trail to pitch tent and continue on.
First 3 days were physically very challenging just making my milage points and staying warm, so I took very few pictures and did very little journaling. I expect I’ll do much better with this as my fitness level and the weather both get better down the trail.
But, very much loving the adventure so far!!
26-27 March (2 Days)Standing Indian Shelter, NC
Weather Conditions: WET!!
Miles Hiked: 16.5
Total Miles: 83.1
Crossed into NC at 12 noon yesterday. Weather was great approx. 65 degrees. And partly sunny. Made over 12 miles.
Slept GREAT last night!!
Got into camp late. Still trying to get my trail legs under me, but still so far so good.Running with a group of about 6 great folks that I met up with each night.
More Eggs - More Jerky
The G-Town Colonel sent home some more stuff. This time, his tennis shoes, gloves, map and water bottles. Also, coffee, fuel bottle and MORE EGGS!! But wait, what's that right there in the very middle? It's his journals and a disk of some pictures. Wow folks, we are in luck. Why don't you all come on over for some eggs and jerky while I type up his journal entries of the past several days. Maybe someone can feed me while I'm typing. And, I wonder where in the world he is keeping his water since those are the only two water containers he took with him. Perhaps the answer lies in his journal. We will have to wait and see.........
Sunday, April 6, 2008
Takin' a Break
The G-Town Colonel is taking a well deserved 24 hour break from the A.T. Not because he really wanted to, but because he arrived at Fontana Village, his re-supply location, too late on Saturday to make it to the post office to get his “stuff”. He will now have to wait until Monday morning to re-supply and start is seven day hike through the Great Smoky Mountain National Park.This picture was taken last year on a camping/hiking trip to the park. He looks great in this picture; warm, dry, clean, and wearing shorts. Today, however, he is still cold, wet, dirty, and wearing as many layers as possible.
It you take a look at the map, http://www.nps.gov/carto/PDF/APPAmap1.pdf, and see where the A.T. crosses into the southern end of the Park, just at Fontana Lake; this is where he is resting. There is no cell phone service in Fontana Village, so his call home was made collect. I’m not sure if he has access to the internet because we did not have much time to talk. He will call home again today, and I will try to get more details.
Friday, April 4, 2008
Package Sent Home
The UPS guy just showed up with a box of "stuff" sent home from the G-Town Colonel. This is what was in the box. The box did not contain journal entries or pictures. Just a bunch of food he did not like, a book, a t-shirt, and a can of fuel. Now, I will eat the noodles, and I'll keep the fuel and t-shirt for a later shipment. But, I have no idea what to do with the freeze-dried eggs and the beef jerky. Maybe I'll sell them on ebay; unless, any of you readers would like to bid on them. Yum. Yum.
Thursday, April 3, 2008
No Rain, No Pain, No Maine!
No rain, no pain, no Maine! One of the mantras on the A.T. to keep the hikers going through some very cold, mountainous, and wet conditions.
The G-Town Colonel is only 29 miles from the southern entrance to the Great Smokey Mountain National Park. Many of the hikers are a bit nervous about hiking the Park. The high elevations in the park make the 7 day trek rather unpredictable, weather wise. The weather can go from sunny to snowing in no time at all. However, the G-town Colonel has hiked the Park before, so is not that concerned. The extra clothing requested by the G-town Colonel did not arrive. We are finding the US mail service does not work so great in the Mountains. I’m sure he’ll survive.
He has requested a change in his food re-supply packages. He would like to substitute instant oatmeal and raisins for the prepackaged, freeze-dried eggs he has be eating for the last couple of weeks. In fact, he is sending home some of the eggs because he just can’t eat them. So, back to his morning oatmeal routine of the last 25 years of his life. Another change in his food supply is additional power bars and no beef jerky. I know have several packages of beef jerky and freeze-dried eggs that I’m not sure what I’m going to do with. Any suggestions would be appreciated.He still sounds great over the phone. His spirits are high and sounds like he is having a very good time. Again, he has promised his journal entries and photo’s soon. He will be mailing them home from Fontana Village this Saturday. So, hopefully, in a week or so, we will have his personal account of his adventure.
The G-Town Colonel is only 29 miles from the southern entrance to the Great Smokey Mountain National Park. Many of the hikers are a bit nervous about hiking the Park. The high elevations in the park make the 7 day trek rather unpredictable, weather wise. The weather can go from sunny to snowing in no time at all. However, the G-town Colonel has hiked the Park before, so is not that concerned. The extra clothing requested by the G-town Colonel did not arrive. We are finding the US mail service does not work so great in the Mountains. I’m sure he’ll survive.
He has requested a change in his food re-supply packages. He would like to substitute instant oatmeal and raisins for the prepackaged, freeze-dried eggs he has be eating for the last couple of weeks. In fact, he is sending home some of the eggs because he just can’t eat them. So, back to his morning oatmeal routine of the last 25 years of his life. Another change in his food supply is additional power bars and no beef jerky. I know have several packages of beef jerky and freeze-dried eggs that I’m not sure what I’m going to do with. Any suggestions would be appreciated.He still sounds great over the phone. His spirits are high and sounds like he is having a very good time. Again, he has promised his journal entries and photo’s soon. He will be mailing them home from Fontana Village this Saturday. So, hopefully, in a week or so, we will have his personal account of his adventure.
Tuesday, April 1, 2008
Instant Coffee
For those of you who know the G-Town Colonel, you know he loves (needs) his coffee. He is the “I’ll only drink Starbuck’s Coffee” guy. Now he is drinking Maxwell House instant coffee because it is easier and cleaner than his Jet Boil coffee press.
“So, how’s the coffee”, I asked on his most recent phone call home this weekend?
“It’s really good”, replied the G-Town Colonel.
Almost anything that goes into one’s belly while doing a long hike is “really good”. Especially when you are wet (rained every day since crossing into NC), cold, and had been bombarded by hail an hour into one morning’s hike. Though he’s been wet and cold, the G-Town Colonel feels he is getting stronger everyday.
Still on schedule, the G-Town Colonel arrived in Franklin, NC earlier than expected on March 30. He had an opportunity to use the internet, and even talked on the phone with G-Child. He also asked to be mailed an additional long sleeve underarmor t-shirt. Really could use the extra warmth while hiking the Great Smoky Mountains.
He will be arriving at the Nantahala Outdoor Center in Bryson City, NC (http://www.noc.com/) sometime tomorrow (April 2, 2008).
More news soon. Journal entries are “in the mail”.
“So, how’s the coffee”, I asked on his most recent phone call home this weekend?
“It’s really good”, replied the G-Town Colonel.
Almost anything that goes into one’s belly while doing a long hike is “really good”. Especially when you are wet (rained every day since crossing into NC), cold, and had been bombarded by hail an hour into one morning’s hike. Though he’s been wet and cold, the G-Town Colonel feels he is getting stronger everyday.
Still on schedule, the G-Town Colonel arrived in Franklin, NC earlier than expected on March 30. He had an opportunity to use the internet, and even talked on the phone with G-Child. He also asked to be mailed an additional long sleeve underarmor t-shirt. Really could use the extra warmth while hiking the Great Smoky Mountains.
He will be arriving at the Nantahala Outdoor Center in Bryson City, NC (http://www.noc.com/) sometime tomorrow (April 2, 2008).
More news soon. Journal entries are “in the mail”.
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