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Getting into Damascus tomorrow requires big miles today, so we left early. No bear activity in the campsite. Most of the day was spent on the ridge over Lake Watauga, which made easy miles possible. Got into camp at around six. Met Mighty Blue and his friends there, who were on their way into Damascus

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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

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Lazy day. Hitchhiked to Food City to resupply, treated our clothes with Permethrin, cooked fancy dinner.

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Back to Damascus for more Trail Days. Dropped off my backpack at the Osprey repair booth to fix my ripped side pocket mesh and take in the hip belt, because it’s gotten a lot looser in the last weeks. Started to work on the loose hipbelt problem from another angle: by stuffing our faces. Ate

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Short day to the next road crossing at mile 420. Rhododendron bushes will bloom soon. At the road we got off trail and shuttled into Damascus/Warrens place. Good weather, many known faces in Damascus. A lot of great food and goodies there, and gear companies galore. Saw Heather Anderson there. Won a Granite Gear fanny

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