Day 2: Southern Terminus / Gadfly

Starting Point: Campsite (-4.4)

Ending Point: Hawk Mountain Campsite (7.4)

Total Miles: 11.8 (4.4 Bonus Miles)

Steps: 32,486

Achievements: *** Southern Terminus ***

I woke up after a cold wet day to a clear sky.  I packed up my wet gear and made my way.  My quest was to make mile 7.4 so that I would have Internet for some remaining business back home.

I stopped at mile -5.1 to find some water, which I did.

It makes you appreciate water so much more when you have to work for it.

I ran into a bunch of hikers.  I met Jason along the way and he was walking my speed.  We had some great conversation as we made the big climb up Springer Mountain.  There we reached the Southern Terminus!

I did not get hurt before actually getting on the AT.  I ran into a few people who were revaluating their life decisions.  The approach trail is a microcosm of the entire AT and no joke.

At the top we signed in and ran into Wally who was picked up with me by Ronnie Brown.  We enjoyed a nice laid back downward graded hike for four miles.

Eventually I met up with Crow, a fellow Presbyterian who was eating lunch.  He is older, hiking with his friend, and having a faith journey.  I certainly know about that.

I told Jason and Wally that I would catch up with them, and hiked with Crow.

Eventually, the downward graded trail ended and we were back to the climb.  It was a gentle climb, but my quads were having none of that.  They were tied in knots and no amount of electrolytes were going to make them happy.  This was a problem on the PCT early on as well.  I should have just rested, but I was on the clock.  I'd hike 20 streps and have to rest.  Fortunately, Crow up game is also weak.

I made it to Hawk Mountain Campsite, did my call, and had a big dinner.  A tough day, but a good one.  Tomorrow, we have rain again, but I have friends to hike it with.