Day ten
Wednesday March 8, 2017
Well today was a short one, just shy of six mile. But ALL of those miles were up hill.

My day began sitting on a bench, in the sun, outside my hotel, waiting for my ride back to Unicoi Gap. It was so warm sitting there in the sun that I eventually ended up shedding all my outer gear.

When I got to Unicoi the weather was cold and blustery. But I knew that once I began climbing I would be comfortable.

Right out of Unicoi you  begin a steep climb up Rocky  Mountain. Although steep, the trail is perfectly maintained and smooth with few rocks. Since I was rested and we’ll fed the climb was not to difficult.

After dropping down into Indian Grave Gap I began my long climb up 4,430 ft. Tray Mountain. Again, although steep the trail was not too rocky and I was able to make the summit in about three hours.

I’m now camped near Tray Mountain shelter just down the back side from the summit. My tent is pitched. My sleeping bag is laid out and I am ready for the night. And the good news is that I was actually hungry once I settled in here. I ate well, which is good, because what I consume today will fuel my trek tomorrow.

I’m sitting on a flat rock, with my back against a tree, writing this. My feet are out in front to of me and the last of the sun is warming my front. It is still a little windy and it is singing in the treetops above me. Hopefully it will drop with the sun. There is not a cloud in the sky and I can only imagine what the stars will be like tonight.

I’m glad that I’m able to bring you along on my journey.
58.3  miles down      2131.5 miles to go