Day 35: Saying Goodbye to Blaze (Again)

Starting Point: Hot Springs (274.9)

Ending Point: Spring Mountain Shelter (286.2)

Total miles: 11.0

Steps: 33,263

Injuries: None

Achievements: Lover's Leap Rock

I went with Blaze down to the local diner.  While it seems so long ago, when we zeroed in Hiawassee, he and I got up early to get some breakfast from a local restaurant that donated to the trail.  We wanted to support them.  Unfortunately, it was closed.  Today, we finally had that breakfast, but to say goodbye once again.

That 14 mile day two days ago was too much.  His doctor told him he could hike if he could stand the pain.  He'll go home and get it fixed for good.  I suspect we'll see him again.

As soon as I hit the trail, it started to rain.  It was supposed to be a light rain.  It was not.  It was a

The good test of my outer shell.  I was much more comfortable.

The trail was much more interesting despite the rain.

There was a dammed pond.  That is what they call it.  Had I known it was the dammed I would have told it that their sins were forgiven.  Sadly, 6.2 miles behind me now.

There was some road hiking.

Despite nearly 4000' of climb and a late start I made it to our destination by 3:15. Captain Blogger, a hiker I just met, Hawaii, and I have been joking all night.  

Unlike the PCT, the AT seems to be dominated by old men.  On the PCT, as the old guy, I was in the minority.  On the AT, there are a bunch of people my age or older.  Makes for some great comedy.

We'll see how I feel hiking through more rain tomorrow.  Good times!