The NOC

Spent today at the NOC, or Nantahala Outdoor Center, resting a sore knee. I seem to have found my legs in Hiawassee, and have been cranking out bigger and bigger miles everyday.

I also hit a lot of milestones in recent days, including hitting North Carolina, 100 miles, and my first trail magic. On a rainy morning I was walking toward a rock scramble climb of Mt. Albert, when I crossed the Ocokee Hiking Club of South Carolina and their spread of fresh fruit, candy, pancakes, and chili.











It was the perfect fuel to keep hiking in the rain and push up the mountain. To add to the magic, a thru-hiker from last year showed up at the shelter later that night with brownies! The next day I ran into the Ocokee hikers again, and got some more treats. The charity they provide to hikers can not be overstated, it's a powerful motivator and greatly appreciated.















































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Location:Noc Way,Bryson City,United States

Hiawassee, GA

After a great dinner by a church group and pancakes for breakfast from Pirate, the hostel manager, I hiked out of Neel's Gap in a cloudy mist. It was quite cool to hike with that dense fog and it kept me cool and going at a nice pace.

I stayed in the top bunk on the left.

Staying in a Budget Inn in Hiawassee, GA today where I can resupply and get some big meals in. I was definitely increasing my mileage, and hope to really amp it up this weekend and next week to try to make it to Gatlinburg by next Friday (a somewhat tall order).

Peak of Tray Mountain.

Found on trail yesterday.

Tough photo, but there is a bear in the center tree. First bear of the trail for me!


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my iPhone

Location:Oakmont Dr,Hiawassee,United States

At Neel's Gap

Four days on the trail and I'm planted at the hostel at mountain crossing. Been hiking mostly alone, but have met up with Grans, Omaha, and a few others along the way. Thinking about getting the shakedown to lighten my load, but I'm not sure what to drop. Strongly considering letting go of my camera, as I'm just starting to feel the weight a little more. Still slow going on mileage, but I can feel myself getting better. Lots of photos below, an might be out of order. Includes Springer Mtn, Gooch Gap shelter, Blood Mountain Shelter, the hostel at Neel's gap.

First Night

Spent last night with my mom, sister, aunt (not the same person) and her kids at the Amicalola Falls lodge, for some awesome views and walks up a horrible 604 stairs. at my first shelter after a TOUGH hike. My pack was, as the anonymous commenter guessed, 40 lbs. Hiked most of the first day with a guy named Blue from Chardon, and actually ran into two others from Cleveland. Also met some nice Israelis who offered some hot cider earlier on, and out hiked me easily with their 60 lb military gear. I'm technically on the approach trail, but will reach Springer Mtn. and the AT early tomorrow morning.

Entries will be short and sweet most of the time and will try to post a few times a week. Forgive typos (pleeeaaassee), I'm working from my phone. I'm also trying to get location services working on here, but having some problems.

Cheers,
Kevin

The AT Community

Wanted to post a quick story as I finalize my planning in my last week before the trip.  On this past Friday I had a going away party with some friends and colleagues.  It was a fantastic night, and I think everyone had a fun night.  After my friends had surprised me with a most epic and unexpected farewell gift, a guy overheard me talking about the trip and and interrupted to tell me how his girlfriend has previously thru-hiked and was inside.  I thought it'd be a great chance to make pick someone's brain that's gone through the hike recently.

This may have been one of the best parts of the night.

The woman was so helpful and sat through and answered all my questions, gave me some much needed advice, and was super positive about the whole thing.  After she wished me the best and hugged me good luck she gave me her card with a little note on it: 

I had always heard and read about how strong the thru-hiker community was and how quickly they'd offer help or provide 'trail magic', but I unfortunately questioned that sincerity, or at least thought it was a bit exaggerated.  The fact that I have already experienced that sense of community before I've even stepped on the trail has sent me a powerful message.

*****

I've moved up to Parma for the week and I am doing some final prep, adding and subtracting some gear, and getting my travel plans and first few days of food ready to go for next week.  Will update if something comes up, but I'm anxious and ready to go!