My, oh my, I have much to catch up on. As I began writing, I realized I was heading into way too much detail for the time I had; so, I'm going to give a condensed version of events, followed by a host of pictures, and as I am able I will delve into some stories and steadfast moments thus far.
I left out from Neels Gap after my last posting, and had a very enjoyable day of kiking. Up and over several mountains, down and out from a handful of gaps, and finished my day atop Poor Mountain....seemed fitting somehow. I stopped about two miles short of my intended destination but the view and solitude were well worth it. I enjoyed a small campfire on the top of the ridge with the echoing cries of coyotes and owls to the light of a bright moon.
The next day was spent in a fog--actually, a cloud would be a more accurate description. The entire mountain and gap was filled with a dense, chilled air; the leafless trees were standing as ghosts in the mist, all around, spindly and sinuous. A storm was approaching so I booked good time to the shelter of my choosing, which proved to be perhaps the most blustery and wind-driven shelter on the trail. Ten hikers ended up huddled in the structure, and we quickly went about hanging tarps and rain flys to weatherproof as best we could. It proved to be our saving move, as the rain and wind pounded us repeatedly; it was the worst storm I'd ever endured while camping, for sure. The morning came, and despite the weather's best efforts, we were all relatively dry and rested. It was cold and crisp, and was a good day to get off the mountain.
The next day I experienced my first genuine bit of trail magic. Right before I ascended Tray Mtn, I came across a 2009 thru-hiker that lived near the area. He and his wife had set up a tailgate on a Forest Service road at the base of the mountain. They had chilled drinks, fried chicken, and a host of trail food for us to eat or pack out, and they did it all because of the gratitude he felt when he hiked and experienced the kindness of strangers. They expected nothing in return and wouldn't take anything if offered. I got a bit of advice on a stealth campsite at the top of the mountain (tucked away and not known about by most folks) and made my way up the hill. Frankenfoot and Em, you guys are absolutely fantastic and have inspired me and others to give back to this amazing trail community once my journey is complete.
Folks, this'll have to be a two-parter.....more to come......my ride's leaving for the trail.
See y'all soon....
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