Days 45 to 52: Fire
Current Location: 4/6, 458.6, Abingdon Shelter, TN
Sorry for the lack up updates, the trail has been busy and I've been recovering.
Days 45, 46, and 47, 3/31 to 4/2 :
Listened to the doctors and stayed put for the full 5 days despite my reluctance. Watched as hikers came and went as I sat and watched. Ugh. Ate food. On a side note: Mountain Harbour Hostel's breakfast is well worth the $12 dollars. Also, I am sad to report that one of the original owners, Terry, recently passed away.
Day 48, 4/3:
Day 48 was bitter sweet. As I packed up and got ready to leave, I felt some slight desire just to stay put and never leave. The comfort of a bed. A toilet. Running water. As I reluctantly packed up and left the hostel, I felt hesitation. I pushed on and got on the trail. A short 8.8 mile day to test the ankle. Mountaineer Shelter is quite nice and water source is the top of the falls.
Day 49, 4/4:
Pushing out of Mountaineer felt good. I knew Mooreland Gap Shelter was the right choice, at 9.6 miles, but I decided against that. I pushed on 16.2 miles to Kincora Hostel and the legendary Bob Peoples. For those unaware, Bob is a legend in the trail maintenance circles and trail angel. For the low low price of a $5 donation, you get a bed, a hot shower, free laundry, and a shuttle into town for resupply. What a deal. Plus you get to talk with Bob! To explain his legend, only a quote from the scriptures of Vandaventer Shelter will do: "Bob doesn't recognize the periodic table of elements because he only recognizes the element of surprise."
Day 50, 4/5:
Feeling good after consuming way too many sodas the night before, I thought it would be a good idea to push 17.7 miles to Vandaventer Shelter. Ehhh, not too bad.
Day 51, 4/6:
Wanting to escape some hikers around, I pushed 22.7miles to Abington Gap Shelter. Ankle feels ok, but still quite a bit sore. Damascus tomorrow!
Day 52, 4/7:
In Damascus at the Woodchuck Hostel. Showered, clean, and dry. Pizza, sleep, and a zero tomorrow.