Got shuttled back from Mountain City to the trailhead by Cindy.

First stop: Laurel Creek Falls, where we went for a quick dip in the river. Very refreshing.

Hiked on, passed Lake Watauga, crossed the dam.

Saw two bear cubs on the road, who disappeared when we made loud noises.

After setting up tent, Mother Bear appeared at the campsite. Wasn’t shy at all, and had the cubs with her; we did not like that, and broke down camp. Tent takedown was pretty quick with a bear watching from 20 yards away.

Hiked another mile to the next tent site and set up for good. Turmeric decided to spend the night in Boots Off Hostel and shuttled out, so it’s all Germans tonight.