Ending Point: Hawk Mountain Campsite (7.4)

Total Miles: 11.8 (4.4 Bonus Miles)

Steps: 32,486

Achievements: *** Southern Terminus ***

I woke up after a cold wet day to a clear sky.  I packed up my wet gear and made my way.  My quest was to make mile 7.4 so that I would have Internet for some remaining business back home.

I stopped at mile -5.1 to find some water, which I did.

I did not get hurt before actually getting on the AT.  I ran into a few people who were revaluating their life decisions.  The approach trail is a microcosm of the entire AT and no joke.

At the top we signed in and ran into Wally who was picked up with me by Ronnie Brown.  We enjoyed a nice laid back downward graded hike for four miles.

Eventually I met up with Crow, a fellow Presbyterian who was eating lunch.  He is older, hiking with his friend, and having a faith journey.  I certainly know about that.

I told Jason and Wally that I would catch up with them, and hiked with Crow.

Eventually, the downward graded trail ended and we were back to the climb.  It was a gentle climb, but my quads were having none of that.  They were tied in knots and no amount of electrolytes were going to make them happy.  This was a problem on the PCT early on as well.  I should have just rested, but I was on the clock.  I’d hike 20 streps and have to rest.  Fortunately, Crow up game is also weak.

I made it to Hawk Mountain Campsite, did my call, and had a big dinner.  A tough day, but a good one.  Tomorrow, we have rain again, but I have friends to hike it with.