Getting into the flow now. We put in some good miles today. Early start out of the tent at 6:45, but not out of camp for another 2 hours. The trail rolled trough endless rhododendron and mountain laurel groves. Unfortunately not budding yet the twisted trunks of the trees were beautiful though.

The trail was far busier today. We saw about 20 others out there at lunchtime, Pittsburgh – a guy who shuttles hikers to the start of the trail stopped by on a forest road. He told us what the trail was like ahead and gave us a coke to have with lunch, our first trail magic! Soon after we ran into Kentucky, a nice woman who’d finished her southbound hike in December. She was the first SOBO thru hiker I’d met (we’re NOBO – northbound) but like all successful thrus she emitted amazing positive energy.

We’re tenting again and the shelter is busy with at least 10 other aspiring thus and some shorter distance hikers. We’re in our bags at 7:15 on this 62-night hoping that the rain holds off.

Claude heard a barred owl last night. I’m hoping to hear something tonight over the sound of the snores coming from the other tent!