It’s accurate. 🍊
Day 3: Woody Gap to Bull Gap; 11.9 miles
The veritable scent of Lucky’s cooking roused the famished hikers at Above the Clouds Hostel this morning. Following a hearty breakfast comprising potatoes, sausage, toast, and eggs, we were shuttled back to Woody Gap. Despite my usual aversion to eggs, I found myself hungry enough to actually enjoy a few bites!
What are your thoughts on sharing food pictures? Does this dish look appealing?
The wind was incredibly strong today, reminiscent of the weather in northern Michigan. I realized the urgent need to acquire some chapstick promptly.
Basking in the sunshine atop Preachers Rock was a welcome relief after enduring a few days of rain!
Anticipating a day filled with continuous ascents, I made an effort to consume ample food the previous day, a challenge for me on the trail. I’ve noticed that I may be eating and drinking less than my usual off-trail routine, causing some concern. At present, I’m focusing on heeding my body’s cravings, staying well-hydrated with water and electrolytes even when not feeling thirsty.
Once I found my rhythm this morning, the ascent to Blood Mountain felt manageable. With my “for big climbs” playlist playing softly in one ear, I was in a smooth groove. It’s a marathon, not a sprint.
There’s often exaggerated talk on the trail and forums about Blood Mountain — particularly the descent. As one of my new companions wisely remarks in response to rumors about the trail’s difficulty: “Cool, thanks, I’ll check it out for myself.” Approach it at your own pace, savor the moment, and you’ll do just fine.
Endless vistas (credit to Neb for capturing this moment!)
Upon descending from Blood Mountain, Lauren, Teddy, Spicy, Neb, and I reached Neel Gap. Some of us pooled resources to indulge in frozen pizzas at Mountain Outfitters, a satisfying treat indeed.
Lauren and I also invested in insoles for our footwear. While I initially wanted to assess how my feet fared in the first few days of hiking before making significant adjustments, the discomfort from my high arches necessitated additional support.
The sheer delight I experienced upon encountering this tree (IYKYK)
After spending a few hours outside Mountain Outfitters sketching out tentative plans for the upcoming days, a group of us trekked another 1.1 miles to Bull Gap and set up camp. With a bit of encouragement from Patrick, I successfully hung my first bear line on the AT. That mid-line clove hitch always trips me up.
The night is exceptionally windy and chilly. My earplugs are proving to be a saving grace, muffling the howling wind against my tent (which is holding up admirably — shoutout to Big Agnes!).
mtnGLO lights, for the win!!
Day 4: Bull Gap to Low Gap; 10.6 miles
Phew, made it through the night. I was convinced I hadn’t slept a wink, but upon checking my watch in the morning, it turns out I managed about five hours of rest. I’ll take it. While my sleep system kept me warm, the last thing I wanted to do was unzip my bag and prepare for the day.
Lauren, Neb, Teddy, Spicy, Pat, and I opted to ease into the morning, allowing ourselves to gradually acclimate to the day’s rhythm.
Metamorphosing into caterpillars
Subsequently, we hit the trail, navigating a series of ascents and descents that seemed never-ending.
This afternoon posed its challenges for me. I found myself grappling with some health insurance issues following my layoff in November. It’s been frustrating trying to sort this out whenever I stumble upon spots with cell service. I acknowledge that I should have ensured everything was in order before embarking on this journey, adding to my self-inflicted frustration. Lessons are learned through experience.
The companions I’ve shared the trail with in recent days exuded positivity and offered unwavering support throughout the afternoon. Surrounding yourself with uplifting individuals on the trail is paramount. We all encounter our share of hardships, and knowing that I can seek help when needed is reassuring.
After a brief emotional moment on the phone with my mom (love you, Mom), I tuned into Brahms 4 in one ear and focused on moving forward with gratitude for each step.
Low Gap Shelter, meticulously maintained by Kelly, greeted us warmly upon arrival. Once I secured a spot to pitch my tent, a gentleman named Phoenix kindly extended a helping hand. While setting up, he shared that he has three daughters around my age. Phoenix, your kindness made a significant impact today. Kudos to you for earning the Best Camp Dad award!
Day 5: Low Gap to Cheese Factory Campsite; 13.5 miles
I awoke to the melodic hoot of an owl in the distance. If only I could discern bird calls better, as they commence their symphony at the break of dawn, filling me with joy upon waking.
Phoenix checked on me upon hearing my sniffles as I packed up. The pollen and cold air have triggered my cough once again. I made a mental note to take some medication to alleviate it tomorrow.
Data and Badger were my neighbors in the tent last night — I first crossed paths with them at Above the Clouds. Badger completed the trail in 2021 and has returned to embark on the journey once more with Data. They radiate a special warmth and camaraderie that is truly infectious. Time and again, I’m reminded that the people you meet on this trail make all the difference.
The initial five miles of the day were a breeze, accompanied by the delightful company of Lauren and Pat. Shortly after setting off, we received word of trail magic awaiting us at Unicoi Gap. It’s astounding how swiftly information spreads within the trail community. Naturally, we hastened our pace for lunch. However, I took the steep and rocky descent into Unicoi cautiously to preserve my knees. It felt like I could hear the road for an eternity before finally reaching it! I was more than ready for a hot, rehydrating meal.
Trail magic never fails to evoke a few tears.
Mun and Slow & Steady welcomed us with delectable blueberry pancakes, bean chili, and bagged salads at Unicoi Gap. They generously provided an array of snacks, fruits, wipes, electrolyte mixes, and more.
We lingered at Unicoi Gap for about an hour and a half before retracing our steps uphill to the Cheese Factory. Regrettably, it’s a tent site rather than an actual cheese factory. En route, Lauren and I paused to dip our feet in a creek. Despite the biting cold, my feet felt rejuvenated afterward.
No sneak peeks of my feet for you!
We concluded our trek for the day during the golden hour, my favorite time to be outdoors. Mun’s bagged salad was a delightful treat, followed by an orange from his trail magic. I’m not exaggerating when I say that this orange was the epitome of perfection. Sweet, juicy, and unforgettable. (Reflecting on this a few days later, I can confirm that the memory of this orange still lingers).
Pat remarked that watching Lauren and me toss our rock bags over the lofty branch tonight was “better than ESPN.” Surprisingly, we each succeeded in just three attempts — progress!
We did it, Joe
Two brief days lie ahead, followed by a well-deserved zero at a hostel!