Year: 2023

• AT 18: Zero At The Hilton

  

  Did a resupply run into “town”, which consists of a hotel, the marina, some vacation huts, a gas station, a restaurant, a general store (closed) and a post office (closed). Luckily there’s a shuttle service that you can get around with. Had a hearty meal at the restaurant; big burger and a lot of sweet…

• AT 17: To Fontana Dam

  

  Taped up my ankle and was on my way. Got leftover snacks from dayhikers at Stecoah Gap. Was much needed for the climb out of the gap. Somebody should be held criminally liable for the route up the next hill. Didn’t feel like quitting early, so pushed on to Fontana Dam. Got some quick grub…

• AT 16: Rainy Day Out Of NOC

  

  Well rested we got out of the NOC; breakfast out of a kitchen was a big plus. About 4000 ft of ascent today, a big push out of the valley. It did rain a lot. Trail conditions could be better, but it’s easier going up a muddy, wet trail than going down. At the top…

• AT 15: Rainy Day at NOC

  

  Lazy day at the NOC. Didn’t do much besides doing laundry and getting junky food. Stayed out of the rain. Bought a replacement Sawyer, arch support inlays, and tape for my foot. Kinda seems like I just buy stuff instead of getting rid of it. Got tele-medical advice regarding my ankle; seems like what I…

• AT 14: Rainy Day to NOC

  

  Started early at 9:00 just when the rain started. The trail soon turned into a stream. Avoiding puddles is a fruitless endeavor. Feet are wet all the time spent hiking. Climbed the lookout tower on Wesser Bald for spectacular views of nothing. Big climb down from the ridge up at 5000 ft to the Nantahala…