Day twenty two

Monday March 20, 2017

I started the day by crossing the foot bride over the Nantahala River and headed up the trail. I was on the trail just before 10:00 A.M. after a breakfast of biscuits and gravy with a side of bacon and a mug of hot coffee. I knew it would be a tough day of climbing, possibly the toughest so far. But I was well rested and we’ll fed, so I was ready for the challenge.

The climb began with the roar of the river behind me. As I twisted and climbed the sound of the river grew fainter until it was lost all together. I would still get glimpses of the river from time to time but the sound was well below me.

The day was gray and overcast but still. No wind. And for the first time in days, it was chilly but not cold. I started the day in just a Polar Tech vest and no gloves. Shortly after I began hiking I shed the vest. It was perfect hiking weather.

I climbed all day, and for the first time since departing Springer, I enjoyed the climb. Don’t get me wrong, I still had to stop, huffing and puffing to catch my breath, but I felt strong. The view and the weather didn’t hurt. It was great to be out in nature.

I’ve started a new thing, maybe I’ve been in the woods too long, but now when I stop to catch my breath, I pick a tree to lean against. And not just for support but to draw energy from. And I sometimes talk to them. And yes quietly, but out loud, thanking them for their support and energy.

My tent is now pitched near the Sassafras Gap shelter. I’ve eaten, I’ve hung my food bag in a tree, and I’ve gone down to the spring to fetch my water for tomorrow. I’m now sitting in the leaves with my back against a log, writing this. The forecast for tonight is for temperatures only in the forties. Maybe a little rain during the night. It should be a comfortable night.

It was a very good day.

143.7 miles down      2046.1 miles to go