We ran along a beautiful quartzite ridge today with views down into the farming community to our west after gaining 2500 feet. We were treated to 70 degree weather, great, interesting trails and super views for 8 miles.

Hung out and talked with thru-hiker Burn briefly.

We hiked for many miles in melting snow including a section of neglected trail that was essentially a small stream for 2 miles. We detoured around a dozen blow downs (trees fallen across the trail that can be stepped over or ducked under) and detoured around many deep puddles.

3 miles before the shelter we passed a grave site and continued down a steep slope (1000 foot descent over ¾ of a mile) that slightly annoyed my shins and absolutely killed my left knee. I hobbled into the shelter in pain, but with the pack off, was able to walk normally an hour later. My body confuses me sometimes!

The stretching I’ve been doing for my shins has worked wonders (Thanks for all the advice, Rog!)

We had a raven croaking at us over lunch and I got within 10 feet of a ruffled grouse for a nice photo.

Gear Guy and Gumby’s dog Bo is pacing around the shelter tonight so hopefully we’ll be untroubled by bears and rodents. I miss Tally. Even through Heather told me Tally misses me too. Heather finally had to close off the office because she would go in, find my pens, and eat them during the day while Heather was at school. Then she’d throw them up at night. :(

I’m still hanging out and often walking with Green One, Rockhound, Jaybird and Burning Boots. Rockhound changed into a blue shirt, but rising temps have reinforced his nickname of “Salt Lick”.

We’re only two days outside of town, but all cleanliness is long gone! 36 miles to Erwin, TN and another institution on the trail, Miss Janet’s Hostel.