THE END

The last three days of my thru hike were great! Thursday night I stayed at Tray Mountain Shelter. I was so happy to have clear, sunny weather that I didn't much care about the high winds blowing through all night. There was a nice couple tenting there as well. We chated around the fire most of the evening, and they gave me part of a Subway sandwich! People are so kind on the trail! There was also a great view that night off to the East from Tray Mountain. The stars were out, and the sunset was gorgeous.



Friday was really fun. I hiked from Tray Mtn to Neels Gap and the famous Walasi-Yi Center. The Walasi is a historic building with an outfitter, hostel and other stuff in it, and the people who run it are great. Pirate, who has been living and hiking the trail for close to 19 years now is a great old man that runs the place. Lumpy is the handyman around there, and talks just like larry the cable guy but better. Lastly there is Richard, who got emphazema at 19 and runs the cash register. I stayed up a little later that night hanging out with everyone. The other two in the hostel went to bed early, and after they were asleep the fellows came down and gave me beer and popcorn. Then we had "Fight Night." They didn't have fight night last friday because "there were a bunch of nerds" there. I could only guess what it was when Pirate pulled out the flower vase. He came in from the next room holding two separte jars of beta fish. So, lumpy rang a bell and fight night began. Pirate poured both beta fish into the same vase, and they started hollarin and slapping money on the table betting on the blue one or the red one. It was hilarious! The funniest part was their comments, especailly when they turned out to not do anything. Pirate goes "I seen em' on the youtube! They rip each uther up in bout 30 seconds." Anyway, that was a really fun night, and I was also glad to be indoors because it's getting pretty cold up in the mountains now.

Saturday I started the hike out of Neels Gap with Blood Mountain. Blood gets it's name from Native American History in the area. The top had great views, and I ended up running into a guy from my business fraternity at UT uptop! Here is a picture from the top. Do you see that brown line in the sky? Air pollution from Atlanta! Can you believe that! Blood Mtn. is 70 miles by road from Atlanta.



At Woody Gap, Saturday, I was eating lunch when another hiker walked up to my picnic table and started talking to me. He was finishing up a thru-hike too. His name was Ballhawk, and we had a great time that night at Hawk Mountain Shelter reminescing about the AT! It was great to spend the last night with another thru. We talked about all the hostels, trail towns, people and everything else trail related until late into the night.

Sunday morning! Time to finish the Appalachian Trail. Saturday afternoon I had come to peace with a lot of things in my head. I had some anxiety about finishing, and transitioning into the next phase of life. Stress is something I haven't really had to deal with at all since beginning the trail, so it was a little hard to manage. I got over it all quickly though. There have been several times during my hike that I have come to tears thinking about being done. The summit was suprisingly a little anti-climatic though. My parents came, and we hiked the last mile together up to the summit! It was great to have them pick me up, and I couldn't have asked for a more beautiful day.

At the top I yelled once, but only when prompted by Mom. It was just a really calm and quiet experience. I had pictured it being different, but when I got to the sign I just kinda stood there and stared. 'Wow it's all done now' I thought in my head. 'Time to move on to the next phase of life.' Don't get me wrong though, I was then and am still on cloud 9 from being done. It's just a different kind of cloud 9 than I've experience before. Maybe it hasn't all soaked in quite yet. After all, I did finish pretty quickly, but I think I came to peace with it all and had my own little celebrations all along the way. Dad said it well when we were driving back down from Springer. He said it just goes to show you that it's more about the journey than the destination.







Thank you so much for following my hike. Your comments, support and visits have enhance the entire experience so much for me, and I can't tell you enough how much I appreciate your interest! Thank you for letting me share the experience with yall. I hope you have enjoyed the blog as much as I have enjoyed writing it! This is something that I am going to keep doing as I make the move out West. Today I set up another blogspot that I will be posting on about my experiences out there. It's called Wyroaming, and I hope to make a post every week or two about whatever; job, interests, outdoor trips and whatever else. Thanks again, and let me know if you'd like me to blog about an aspect of the hike I didn't touch on.

THE END!

The Kid

www.wyroaming.blogspot.com

North Carolina - Georgia

Hi Everyone! I am home in Collierville now having finished yesterday! It feels great being completely done! I'm going to make two posts. This one is about my last week on the trail from the Southern Boundary of the Great Smokey Mountain National Park to mid Georgia.

The Smokies were amazing, and probably my second favorite section of the entire trail (behind Maine at number 1). Maybe it is because I was back in the home state, but it was awesome. The colors were great, I had some visits from friends, nice weather, and the views were spectacular! The Appalachian Trail in the park is really nice, and follows the ridge the entire way. Clingmans dome was packed on the Saturday that Nathan and I got there. I'm not a big fan of crowds anymore, but the view from the cement tower was great!

Saturday I hiked into Siler's Bald Shelter, and was so beat from doing long days that I slept from 7:30P to 8:20ish AM. It was glorious. There was a big ole crowd at all the shelters in the park, which made it fun. I met some nice sectioners who gave me fruit, some scouts who had just got back from a trip to Glacier last month, and a bear at the southern end of the park. It was dusk, my favorite time of the day to hike, when I turned the corner of the trail to find a big black bear standing in my way about 40 yards. It really startled me at first! "woah bear, WOAH BEAR!!" I ended up making it climb up this tree, and it wasn't a small one either! So, that was cool. I walked over Fontana Dam around 7:20P, and it was completely pitch black dark out already. There is a shelter there which took me a good while to find in the dark.

Sunday the rain started. All night at Fontana Dam Shelter it poured down rain, and when we woke up it was still raining. Luckily the rain died down for most of that day, but the ground remained wet. My socks weren't even dry for 30 minutes after I started that morning, and stayed wet until Thursday of this past week! I have been super fortunate with weather, having had mostly sunny days for the majority of my hike, and haven't had to deal with continuously wet feet for longer than a day. Well this past week was a dose of reality, or what I'd imagine most hikers go through. Wet leaves are super slick too, and I must have fallen at least 8 or 9 times a day while it was wet out.

The really miserable day was this past Wednesday. Rain, Rain, Rain. The wettest day I have had on the trail yet. My shoes turned into water pumps, and the trail turned into a creek bed. Every 5 to 7 miles I would stop and ring out my socks, which were usually holding a few ounces of water, so I could at least not have the squishing water effect for a small portion of the hike. But again, I is super hard to complain about it all. Thursday the sun came out, everything dried, and I had clear blue skies all the way to the finish. Thursday I also hitched into Hiawasee, Georgia for lunch and my last resupply. It was not the best hitch, but I got a ride from some nice locals after about 20 minutes of thumbing (the second longest I've ever had to wait for a ride). By then I was pretty beat. The rain takes a lot out of me, especially doing large mile days.

The trail has taught me so much. One of the things is being humble. I don't like to talk about miles too much, as some hikers really like to do, but I have to brag just once about this lower section. If I could have slowed it down, I would have without a doubt. I wanted to make it on the weekend though so Dad could come, and I would have more time to pack up, move and visit. Anyway, from Hot Springs, NC to Hiawassee, GA is about 203 trail miles which I completed in 7.5 days. That averages to 27 miles a day! I would have loved to do 15 miles everyday, and slowed it down. The Griswolds and I had this joke going about "slowing it down" which they were going to do after Hot Springs. Again, I don't like to brag about miles, but that I'm pretty proud of, and it is cool to know and find that I'm capable of doing it.

Dan and Summer (The Griswolds) were slowing it down a lot after Hot Springs. They had a friend doing the Smokies with them, and are planning on summitting Springer this upcoming weekend. They were probably my favorite people to hike with. We had a blast together, and I was sad to leave them. Antspants was I lot of fun to hike with as well as Guac and Queso. I have all of their phone numbers and will be keeping in touch for sure. There are some people I would love to talk to and/or visit from my Northbound section, but all I have is their trail name. Oh well, next time I know!

Crossing into Georgia was one of the best feelings I've gotten on the trail yet! There was a sign that simply said "NC-GA" and I let out a big ole yell when passing it; 76.4 miles to Springer from there. O.k. on to the next post about my last 3 days on the trail. Thanks for reading!!

Homestretch

He's in the homestretch! This post by Dad, since Sam has not had internet accress in awhile. The last 5 days he has covered 131 miles, which includes a short day of 16 miles for a visit to Gatlinburg and friends. Jeff and Gary drove up on Friday and met Sam at Newfound Gap. They went to Gatlinburg and ate, then from what I gather Jeff and Gary must have watched Sam eat and then eat again. They slept on the front porch of an outfitter in Gatlinburg, and Saturday went to Pidgeon Forge to watch Julie start a Triathalon. Shortly after the race began, Nathan Berger met Sam and they went back to Newfound Gap. Nathan was going to do an out and back day hike, but Sam talked him into hiking up to Clingsman Dome. At Clingsman, Sam showed Nathan the art of yogying a ride back to his car at Newfound Gap. The break and opportunity to see friends was a blessing. And yes, as Nathan gets older he gets even more like his dad!

The color has been amazing, with lots of reds and oranges from the trees. There has been some rain, and the trail gets a little slick from the wet leaves.

Current location is Nantahala Outdoor Center, 135 miles from Springer Mountain.Over 2000 miles down, and the end is in sight. Well, almost. The plan is for Sheila and I to meet him at Springer Mountain on Sunday for the trip home. I'm not sure if he will fit in the trunk, we'll definately have to find a shower somewhere. I don't know if Sam will have an opportunity to post on the trail again, but he will definitely post again to share his experiences on the last leg.
Sam, Sheila and I really appreciate the interest and support you all have shown in this life experience of his, it has enhanced the experience for all of us.

Blue Ridge Mountains

Hey everyone! I'm in Hot Springs, NC after 4 days of hiking from Greasy Creek Gap. The views have been great since then, and the trail great as well. The peak color change has come and gone I think, and now the forest floor is covered in leaves. Sometimes it's a little hard to see the trail with so many leaves on the ground. I'm enjoying the change of seasons though! You can see through the trees more and more each day to the surrounding ridge lines. I snapped a great picture yesterday of the ridges; one of those classic blue ridge mountain shots where there are 7 or 8 ridges that fade away into the sky. There have been a lot of fantastic views like that lately. One of my favorite times to hike is around dusk. The mountains look much more dramatic in color as the sun sets.

There are parts of the trail through Tennessee and North Carolina that are bald. They are awesome mountain tops with no trees; not above treeline, but just a mountaintop without anything on it but a big grassy meadow. The part of the trail I am hiking now is where most of them are. Sunday I hiked out of Uncle Johnny's Hostel at the Nolichucky River near Erwin. The hike was mostly uphill for 16 miles that day. It was a cruddy way to start the day, and at the time all I could think about was being done. Well, 16 miles later I summitted 'Big Bald.' The view was incredible; 360 degrees of mountains in every direction! AND guess who else was up there...the Griswolds! It was so nice to see them again! I'd heard they were in front of me, and had been looking for them all that day. It was a big lift for the spirits to have great company again. I've been hiking with Dan and Summer and their dog Otis since then!

Yesterday we hit some unreal trail magic! At Allen Gap, we saw a sign that read "Trail Magic: Belgian Waffles, Piccola, Beef Stew, Chili, Ice Cream. From 8A to 6P 10/18 & 10/19." Dan and I looked at each other in amazement. It was one of those things that is too good to be true. What are the odds that it would be this day? So, we followed the directions to this house 300 yards down the highway, and found the place. It was a super nice log cabin with a super nice couple that had thru-hiked in 1999. They lived in Missouri, but missed the trail so much after hiking it that they had to move closer! Now they do trail magic for hikers all the time. We had root beer floats, waffles, a Cuban rice dish and a banana split! It was too good for words! I just happened to be short on food that day as well. Wow!

I'm trying to think of what else. After staying at Greasy Creek Hostel, I got to see Bo on Saturday! It was awesome to see another friend on the trail. Thanks for coming up dude! My merino wool hiking shirt looks like it went through a shredder; something I'm pretty proud of. It is super nice to have new socks; I got them in Damascus. The end is really close, and I'm getting pretty anxious! It is 271.8 miles from Hot Springs, and I have hiked 1907.3 miles total. I will enter the Great Smokey Mountain National Park tomorrow, and pass over Max Patch as well! I have food for 3 days, and the only place to resupply is in Gatlinburg (15m off the trail). I'll be in Gatlinburg (or trying to hitch in) late Friday afternoon or early Saturday, so hit me up all you Knoxville folk if you want to do something in the Mountains this weekend! I ought to have good cell coverage on the ridge line the next few days. I'll make sure to check it. Thank yall so much for following! I look forward to seeing you soon!

-The Kid

Greasy Creek Friendly

Hey yall! I am at Greasy Creek Friendly Hostel near Erwin, Tennessee. The last few days have been great! I've been on the trail for 4 days now, and am cranking out the miles. I'm trying to get done by Halloween, but a few days later is o.k. too. The fall colors have been beautiful! The forest reminds me of fruity pebbles right now. It is especially pretty when it rains. Yesterday it rained for a few hours in the morning, and the water is flowing now!! Today I drank some water from a spring on the top of Roan; the best water I've ever tasted!

Today I hiked the Roan Highlands. Man was it windy!!! Dad & Mr. Bean, it was darn close to the wind in NH. The wind nearly blew me over, and gave me wind burn. The views were amazing though! I'm pretty disappointed that we never went up there, being so close to Knoxville. Anyway, it is an amazing place. I'd recommend it highly to anyone looking for a hike near there that hasn't been before.

I also received a box with cold weather gear today! Thank goodness! It was 28 degrees when I woke up this morning, and I could see my breath as I was hiking today too. Also, I have to brag about how much my friend and I ate the other night. I had 2 roast beef and cheddars, a large fry, 3 slices of pizza and a pint of ice cream. My buddy "Mud" had a #7 from Arby's and an entire meatlovers pizza! It's truely amazing how much we can put away, and I still feel like I'm losing weight.

Thanks again so much for following. I'm using dial-up to make this post! I laughed so hard when it was dialing; haven't heard that in a while. Hope yall are doing awesome!

The Kid

On the Trail Again

Hey Everybody! I made it to Knoxville last night, and am being dropped off tonight in Damascus, Virginia. Tomorrow I will start hiking towards Springer Mountain again!! Woohoo! It has been suprisingly easy once again, to get back to the trail. I have had a great time off, and thanks SO much to the Maxey's, my relatives out in Denver, for an awesome visit and help with everything during my time there!! Can't wait to see yall again in a month!

It is 460 miles until Springer Mountain in Georgia; Southern Terminus of the Appalachian Trail. I have a lot of drive now, being so close. I'm pretty ready to get done, but am also so grateful and excited to be able to finish! Thanks to all who are following! Until next post!

The Kid

Southbound

Beautiful trail on a beautiful day in Shenandoah National Park


Deer in Shenandoah National Park


Antspants and I


Apple tree in Northern Virginia


Sunset from The Priest


McAfee Knob


Old Orchard Shelter; just North of Grayson Highlands



A picture of the mountains just before Damascus, Virginia.

The Wild West

Hello everyone! I apologize for not posting for 6 days; it has been a crazy week. I left off last post by talking about a phone interview that I was preparing for while in Damascus, Virginia. After interviewing on the phone, I was invited to visit the office in Wyoming for an in-person interview! So, I started arranging the trip out west immediately. The last hiking I did was Sunday morning into Damascus. Since then I've been travelling, and interviewing for this job. I actually had a pretty easy time getting off the trail for the interview thanks to the kindness of some friends and family! Staying with Mrs. Crabtree's relatives was great, Ethan picked me up and brought me to Knoxville that day, Paul picked me up Tuesday, and I drove his car to Nashville. Then, I flew to Denver Wednesday morning, and have been staying here since. All in all I had an easy time getting here, considering I went from Damascus to Denver in two days with no notice. Thanks so much to everyone who helped with that! (I just proofread this post, and realized that it is kind of a long story. So, if you don't want to read it all just skip the next couple paragraphs.)

The job that I interviewed for was one that I applied to on my break between hikes. During the break I applied to 15 different positions, most in Tennessee, but 1 in Wyoming. Out of all the 15 that I applied for, the position in Wyoming was the one that I did not expect to hear back from. That was pretty much the dream job for me coming out of college; statistics in the west. I didn't meet their minimum qualifications, but I threw my resume and application in anyway because you never know what can happen. From those 15 applications I only heard back from 2; a financial position in Nashville, which I never had a chance to interview before it was filled, and Wyoming, whom I heard back from in Waynesboro after hiking for a week. The human resources department of Wyoming wanted me to piece together any experience I had to qualify for the job. They needed 1 year experience. As most of yall know, I have done some things professionally, but have spent all my summers working for the Boy Scouts. They wanted job related experience. Well, I put together what I had, not really expecting anything to come out of it, but hoping for the best.

10 days later I received a voicemail asking for a phone interview; that was when I updated the blog in Pearisburg, VA. Those next few days were spent trying to get in touch with the Board in Wyoming, and trying to prepare for the interview. I spent hours mulling over my answers to all the common interview questions while hiking those next few days. I don't think there could have been any better place for me to prepare than in the woods!

I had the in person interview in Cheyenne, Wyoming on Thursday morning. I drove up from Denver, a 2 hour drive, and had a couple hours to walk around Cheyenne before interviewing. That was really great because I got to know the city a little, and chill out before hand. It lasted for 1 hour and 30 minutes, and I told people afterwards that it went "very good." I didn't want to get my hopes up even though I felt it was one of the best in person interviews I've ever done. They would let me know the next day, Friday (yesterday). All Friday morning I was uneasy. I jumped every time my phone went off, and constantly checked my email. I went hiking to get out of the house, and get my mind off of it. Plus, it would be a shame if I came to the Rocky Mountains without hiking at all! I hit some really nice trails around I-70, and had great views of the higher peaks which had gotten their first snowfall of the year the previous day.

The Board called me when I was driving back into Denver. I GOT THE JOB AND (if bigger letters were possible here they would be bigger) I GET TO FINISH THE TRAIL! I'm not even going to begin to explain how I felt at that time. I've done so many applications, sent out SO many resumes and had so many interviews without success. It just seemed too good to be true that I would land this job. I really want to do statistics, and I really want to live in this outdoor playground and I really want to finish the trail too. Now I get to do all three. It really has yet to sink in, and all seems very surreal still. In a nutshell, the job is doing statistical analysis for the Board of Equalization in the State of Wyoming. I will be making sure that each of the 23 County Assessors are in compliance with the regulations set by the state in regards to the valuation of property and the assessed property tax.

I went back up to Cheyenne yesterday to fill out some paperwork, and meet the rest of the office. I also found a place to live! Before I left to hike, I researched and had information on 7 properties. Then when I was called up, I arranged appointments to go view them all while driving to fill out paperwork. The place I'll be living is great, and only 1 block from where I'll work; literally a 2 minutes walking.

That was a really long story. It hasn't sunk in completely for me yet. I'm so grateful for the good fortune I've had. I know that God's hand is all over it. And I really can't thank yall enough for the amount of support that you have given me!

Next up will be finishing the A.T. My start date for the job is Novemeber 15th. (I'm going to have to be quick.) I'm estimating that I have 25ish more days of hiking remaining. It is 460 miles to Springer Mountain from Damascus, Virginia. At the rate I was going it would take me as little as 18 days though. The elevation changes get more intense as I step into Tennessee, North Carolina and Georgia. I'm looking forward to getting back on the trail. It is something that I have definitely missed much since leaving a week ago! The offer is always up for those of you who want to come visit, however I am more limited on time now. I very much look forward to talking and visiting everyone back home! Thanks SO MUCH for following and being interested and supporting me! I have some pictures that I'm going to post now. Hope you are having a fantastic fall!!

The Kid

The Home Stretch

Hello Everyone! I arrived in Damascus, Virginia this morning. Over the last few days, I have had some great times. I lost Antspants on Tuesday, he is ahead of me now, but have been hiking with 'The Griswolds' for the past few days. They are a young married couple from Ashville, NC and hike with their 5 year old Boxer named Otis. Since leaving Pearisburg on Sunday, we have had 4 days of rain. The socks had a tough time drying, and were never fully dry until I put them in the dryer. The Griswolds and I split a hotel room in Atkins on Thursday night. It was wet, and the room was great!! It is always nice to have a warm, dry place to sleep.

Saturday I hiked through the Grayson Highlands State Park. The highlands are similar to the grasslands of Montana (so they say). I had fantastic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains everywhere. We could also see into parts of Tennessee and North Carolina. I played a joke on some day hikers in the Highlands that was pretty good. Just before rounding a corner, I heard some people and turned around backwards. When I came up on them, I introduced myself as 'Rewind; the first person to thru hike the Appalachian Trail backwards.' They ate it up, and I never let them in on the joke. So if you hear a rumor of someone thru hiking backwards, you'll know who started it.

The last week has been great! Having rain from Sunday to Thursday has gotten the water flowing better. The terrain is still fairly easy, and I'm making good miles. I am currently at a family friend's relative's house (Thanks Mrs. Crabtree!!). I weighed myself here. It felt as though I lost weight, but I didn't think I had lost 14 lbs since September 8Th. I weigh 182 now; haven't weighed that much since high school. The weight loss isn't due to a lack of eating either. Since being in town, I've had Nacho's Grande, 12" Philly Cheese Steak, and a huge plate of spaghetti! Anyways, things are going really well here. I have hiked 1720 miles since starting, and have 460 miles left to go. Hitting the 500 mile mark was a great feeling!

Thank yall so much for following. I'm a little preoccupied tonight, so maybe more stories on a second post tomorrow. I have a phone interview tomorrow morning that I'm trying to prepare for. Thanks again, and I hope everyone is enjoying the cooler weather!

The Kid

Pearisburg

Hey Guys! Im in Pearisburg now. Antspants and I got in this morning and ate some breakfast at Hardee's. It's raining pretty hard right now, and it isn't supposed to stop until Tuesday! The area really needed some rain though, so I'm not complaining. At least it will be easier to get some water. The last few days have been great! Before leaving Daleville, we went to the outfitter and the P.O. I've managed to slim down my pack weight some more by sending home various things that I just haven't used in a while, as well as some of my warmer clothing. Also, I've switched my cook system to a Vargo Denatured Alcohol stove. It is made out of titanium, and weighs 1 oz! I carry 8 oz of fuel, which is cheap and you can buy anywhere (much more frequently than canisters), and use about 1.5 oz every night to cook dinner. My pack feels SO good now. I'm pretty much bouncing and skipping down the trail everyday!

Thursday was really good. Started at Lambert's Meadow Shelter, and hiked to Pickle Branch Shelter. After 12m we went into town to the general store. Guac and Queso were there, and the store was also being sold, so everything was half price. Ate a delicious sandwich, and had some ice cream and cold drinks. It is super hot out. McAfee Knob was cool! We have some great pics. I shot Ants doing back flips! Pretty Gutsy! Also, the girl that gave us a hitch into Catawba had just finished a northbound thru hike a week ago! Wow, what a cool thing! Hitching out of town, these three guys in a pickup gave us a ride. We sat in the back of their pickup truck next to all the beer cans and coolers. When they dropped us off, the guy in the passengers seat poked his head out of the window and asked "Do yall want some squirrels?" Well, we said yeah really quick because we thought is was slang for beer. So he hops out of the truck and goes around to the side saying "There fresh, just shot em' this morning!" Ants and I looked down next to the cooler at these three dead squirrels just lying in the bed of the truck! "Aw, haha no thanks man. We changed our minds." "You sure!? Them's great for protein." What a hitch! Some true hill folk right there.

Another 6m down trail and we stopped at another store for some cold drinks. I had an amazing orange slushy! SO GOOD in the heat of the day. Guac and Queso caught up, and we hiked Dragons Tooth. Amazing views and good company. It was a little high and dangerous, but we climbed to the tallest point and chilled for a while, watching the sun go down. Ended up having to night hike to Pickle Branch Shelter because we stayed too long. I'm battling a flair-up of Athletes foot. So, I was happy to stop hiking. Ants took a couple spiders to the face night hiking (I knew what I was doing letting him lead); that was pretty funny. We all walked down to the creek and chugged water because we had all run out. It was the best water ever, and the perfect end to the day. A nice cold stream to soak the feet in and get rehydrated. The new stove worked perfect!

Friday we hiked 23m. It was a tough day! The sun was super hot, which just kills me, and there were some rougher than anticipated elevation changes. Ants and were shooting for 30m, but were happy with what we got. We hiked on the "Eastern Continental Divide" if there is such a thing (there was a sign for it). The elevation profile in the guidebook made it look flat and easy, but it was overgrown, sideways slanted rock trail with no water sources for 10 or so miles at a time. Rough day! The hike to the shelter from the stream where we cooled off at was amazing! We hiked through gorgeous pastures; very scenic. I again replenished the fluids at the end of the day after being slightly dehydrated for most of it. Supposedly the body holds 3.5L of water and can use it all in less than an hour. Wow!

Yesterday was one of the best days on the trail yet! I had trail magic galore! We hiked 31m from Laurel Creek Shelter to Rice Field Shelter. The trail magic was such a blessing because I actually didn't have enough food to scrap by until Pearisburg. Friday night Antspants convinced me to take Tylenol PM. "Dude, you'll sleep so much better." So, I took it, but it didn't wear off until mid morning the next day! I felt super groggy hiking. The first 5 miles was a struggle, but it all got better when my first trail magic of the day happened at Wind Rock. I had been hiking with earplugs in for the flies buzzing around my ears, and came up to a couple of VT students at a campsite. I didn't hear what they were saying at first, but I could see they were talking to me. So, I took the earplugs out and they said "Want some pancakes?" Woohoo!!! Of course I want some pancakes! I sat there and talked to them for a while. They fed me 4 pancakes, 1 egg, an orange and 2 cups of cider! What a blessing.

The next stop was 'The Captians' at Dismal Branch. We stopped there because he has a zip line across the creek to his house, and gives sodas to hikers. Well, Ants and I hit it just right. We walked up and he invited us in for lunch! He, his wife and another couple fed us roast, veggies and chips and dip while we watched football! Sweet! I must have ate half the roast! THEN, we hiked up the ridge and 12m to Rice Field Shelter, eating apples along the way, and received more trail magic! At the shelter there were two space engineering PhD students from VT there that gave us homemade bread, apples, marshmallows and cheese. What a day! This morning I woke up, and it didn't at all feel like I'd hiked that much the previous day. Stretching is doing wonders for me! Then, to top it all off, I had a voicemail on my phone. A Chairman for the Board of Equalization in Wyoming wants a phone interview for the principal statistician job! Could this day get any better?!

So, it's still raining. I'm not sure if I want to hike more today or not. I really need to do some laundry and take a shower. Ants and I were planning on going 11m down to this hostel, but the locals are saying it is closed for the year...humm. What to do. Anyways, hope everyone is doing great! We are making really good time here, and I am expecting to be in Damascus, VA in 7 days! Damascus is on the Tennessee border, home sweet home! Thanks for following, and talk to some of yall soon :)

The Kid

Central Virginia

Good Morning Everyone! I'm currently in Daleville/Troutville. Antspants and I split a room at the Comfort Inn last night, and had some amazing mexican food. We pushed a big 30 mile day into town yesterday. That kind of mileage isn't too out of the question these days, and around 23 we consider comfortable. I'm feeling good today after the long hike. I think this is mostly due to all the stretching I've been doing recently. I can put my hands flat on the ground now! When this leg of the hike started, I couldn't hardly touch my toes.

Two days ago, we woke up early to get the hike done with earlier in the day. The goal for the day was to hike 23 miles to Byrant Ridge Shelter. Well, we got up at 6A and we were on the trial by 7ish. At 10:30 we had only 6 miles done. Sitting down, taking a break I had no desire to hike at all. I just didn't want to. It was a terrible feeling not wanting to hike and knowing that we still had 17 miles to go for the day. I started complaining to Antspants about not wanting to go anywhere. Usually when one of us doesn't want to hike, or something of the like that we've set out to do, the other one does and we hike or whatever. But today neither one of us wanted to, so we sat there and read for 2 hours. After reading a bit, the prospect of hiking wasn't as bad as it was before, but I still didn't want to. Every once in a while it is hard to find the motivation, and want to hike. I think repetition is wearing on me a bit. The trail is amazing and beautiful everyday, and I wish I could feel that way about the hike everyday. It could also be a case of the 'Virginia Blues' or being in the same state for so long that it doesn't feel like you're making much progress. But I know I'm making good progress. Everyday is awesome, and I really look forward to it! Love waking up in the woods!

Recently I've seen some more wildlife. Last week, Antspants juggled a huge 4 foot long snake on his hiking poles, and later that day, we spotted an Eastern Coyote in the woods. There haven't been any bears around since we left the Shenandoah; guess they know where to go for food.The weather is still awesome, although I think some rain is coming later this week. Hiking in the morning is the best, and yesterday Ants and I got started around 6A. It was still a little dark outside, be cool morning air was great! It's getting pretty hot later in the day, guess that's because we're getting further south. Looking ahead, the terrain is flatish, so Ants and I will be making good miles. McAfee Knob is later today!!! McAfee Knob is this rock outcropping that juts out from the side of this mountain with a beautiful view. Total mileage is 1460, and with 719 to go. Today marks my 87Th day on the trail! Wow! Thanks so much for reading! Hope you are all doing very well!

The Kid

Glascow

I hiked for two days with Antspants, Guac and Queso. Queso's dad was up from Texas on a business trip, and hiked up to the Preist Shelter with beer and snacks for all. Guac and Queso then went with Queso's dad to the Virginia Tech footall game in Blacksberg, and Antspants and I continued. There have been 15-20 people at shelters, including 7 SOBOS. Antspants and I have similar hiking paces and have gone 23 and 22 miles the last two days. Like me, Anyspants just graduated (finance degree) and could not find a job. He is from Maine.

When we got to Glascow, there is a bridge over the James River, and there was a large group of free spirited looking folks jumping off of the bridge. It was about 35 feet, so it was a good jump. Of course, Antspants and I had to partake. It has been hot, and the water felt great. It was fun watching the locals, they were doing flips/twists, and two of them even did sychronized flips. Antspants is a snowboarder, so he knew the names of many of the flips and twists they were doing.

The plan is to arrive in Troutville Wednesday, and update the blog then. Now it is off to the store for food, with chili dogs on an open fire planned for dinner tonight. Thanks for reading!

Shenandoah National Park

The day before I entered the Shenies, I had a great day. I woke up at Blackburn Trail Center and the sun was shining once again through clear blue skies. Breakfast was good; half a box of reese's cereal. Stumblewolf and I hiked together all morning. We talked the whole way. He is a great dude, but not a strong hiker. I'm really impressed by his determination! Watched him fall twice that day through a rough section of trail called the rollercoaster. I can't remember if I've talked about him before. Here is his story if I haven't. When Stumblewolf was young he had a brain aneurysm that put him in a wheelchair. No one thought he would walk again, but after 4 years he did. He still doesn't have good use of the left side of his body. Wathcing him hike, and hearing his story is truely inspirational. He is very positive about everything, and a friend to everyone! At one point in the day he made this comment after we talked about how nice it was seeing each other again, and talking about how it would be nice to hike together for a while. I said 'Yeah it would be great to hike together for a while!' and he said "Yeah cuz we're having a blast together!" I hope you see the beauty in that, like I saw at the time, despite my poor retelling of the story. He didn't even check to see if that was how felt about it, but just assumed. I remember thinking this guy has a heart of gold, and that is definitely one of the reasons I like him. I felt bad leaving him at Bear's Den Hostel, but he said it was up to me, and we had only gone 7 by 1P. As you can imagine, I was itching to burn some trial by then, so I left. It would be nice to stay, and I worry about him through the rocky parts, but I reasoned that it is unfair for both of us for him to burden me with doing that.

I took a shower at Bear's Den, and started off towards Rod Hollow Shelter. It felt great to stretch out my legs, and go fast! The hike was long, and became even longer when the spring was dry at Rod Hollow. By then it was 5:30P, and I'd had my fill of hiking for the day (17m), but only had 8oz of water left, and I can't operate on that. So, I set out again towards the streams about 3m down the trail thinking 'O.K. I'll get some water there and find a place to camp close by.' Well, the water was there, good water too, but the campsites were not there. I ended up pushing on 6 more miles all the way through Ashby Gap and Sky Meadows State Park to Dick's Dome Shelter. I got there late, around 8:30P, and was super glad to be there! Should've followed Dad's advice back when I was in Memphis and replaced the headlamp batteries, because my headlamp was extremely dim. I had to night hike for a good 30 minutes. My thoughts at the time were something like 'Oh shit! I'm going to be stuck out here with no idea where I am, in the middle of the trail, no light to guide me. If my headlamp goes, I can't see, so I'll just feel around for a flat spot in the trail and lay there until morning! hopefully no bears will come.' Some backup plan huh? I made sure to get batteries 2 days later at the wayside in the Shenies. I really liked hiking at dusk, and in the state park. So, that is how a short day turned into a long day (26m total).

The next day I entered Shenandoah National Park; making sure to get the permit when I passed the info booth. The trails are pretty easy and flat, and I'm really enjoying Virginia! I've been seeing a ton of apple trees, and even spotted a peach tree in front of Gravel Springs Hut! Pretty cool. Friday night I was again blessed with more company. When I arrived at Gravel Springs, I met Antspants and Yaw; two SOBOs. Yaw has a crank radio, and Antspants make great fires! They're fun guys. Friday was a long day and I was glad to be done with it. When we woke up Saturday morning there was a black bear roaming around the camp! That was cool. It let us get a good view before scurrying back into the woods for cover. Saturday we left the shelter around 10A; a late start for me. It was good timing because we hiked the 7m to the wayside for lunch, but I don't like getting started so late. Saturday, like all the rest was a beautiful day as well! We got to the wayside, and met two other hikers going south from Duncannon. The 3 man wolfpack was now 5 strong. Those other two guys were cool, but are also the drink lots, hike slow type and Yaw got sucked in with them for the day. He packed out 2 sixers of bud from the wayside, and we still had 12m to hike to get to Byrds Nest #3 Shelter. Those other two guys didn't make it either, because they not only packed out beer, but were hauling 35 pound or so packs (it looked like).

Antspants and I ended up at the shelter with two more SOBOs, Guac and Queso. Guac does yoga, and has been doing it for 2 years. I've been doing some basic yoga now for the past several days, and it is helping out a ton! I'm stretching muscles on my legs that I've never stretched before. After doing yoga that first night, my legs felt so good; like they were melting. It also rained all night and quit early morning! I slept like a baby. Had some trail magic Honey Buns from breakfast from a guy who brought Antspants some new batteries for his watch-battery headlamp. Sunday morning was beautiful, and I got some great shots of the hike. That was the last day I hiked with those guys. The last two days I hiked longer in order to zero here in Waynesboro today. They are actually here at the library with me right now though! So we are all camping out behind the YMCA and using the showers. What a nice gesture to the hikers!

The last two days I saw some more bears, and just hiked my heart out. The last 17m of the Shenies were dry. No water at all! So I got pretty dehydrated the last little bit coming into town. It is nice having sunny great weather, but I passed three water sources that were completely dried up! Being dehydrated is the worst. Hope to never have that happen again! I think I'm going to resupply next in Glasgow, VA in 4 days. Long Mtn. Wayside is 3 days away, so I'll only need that much food, then I can get food for another day there. Well, I can share more, but I'm afraid of writing too much. So, love yall and thanks for reading!!! God bless! Until next post :)

The Kid

Hello Again!

Hi again! I'm at the Waynesboro, VA library on a zero day. Since beginning in Harper's Ferry, WV on Wednesday, I've hiked 161 miles to get here over some easy terrain and through Shenendoah National Park! I'll do the play by play in just a second, but a few summary words about the trip so far. It has been nothing short of amazing! The weather is spectacular and the trail is super nice (DIRT!). I have only met a handful of people, but by Gods grace they have been well timed and my spirits are up/loneliness has yet to affect me in discouraging ways. The clicking in my knee has stopped completely, and I'm feeling great!

I'm going to start out by telling you about Tuesday, which is the day I travelled to Harper's Ferry. I left Knoxville at 12:15A on a bus. Jeff and Gary dropped me off, and I was sad to be leaving. The time back was amazing, and I was very anxious about hiking again. The bus got into D.C. on time around 12P and I walked to Union Station and got a MARC ticket (commuter train) to Harper's that left later that day. It didn't leave until 5P so I walked around Capitol Hill a while! Cool! I felt sick most of the day, which didn't help my attitude towards the whole traveling and getting back on the trail outlook. When I stepped off the train the town was asleep! I didn't really expect a welcome or anything, but I envisioned more than that. Found a place to get a burger and had some hot tea for the throat. Then I made my way across the Potomac into Maryland and camped by the river. It was a nice spot to camp! There was a breeze, but instead of soothing river sounds I was greeted with traffic noise from the Rd on the other side and train horns every 40 minutes or so. Still, I slept pretty well once I got over my fear of being alone in the place I was, which didn't take too long.

Next morning was great! I made my way to the Appalachian Trail Conservancy, a .5 mile walk, all the time thinking about how alone this whole trip was going to be. I started to get a little down. I love community. As the last post described I received some unexpected kindness from an older lady named Sue, who invited me to her house for coffee! Thank you God! What a welcoming! I can't tell you how much this meant to me at the time. So I followed Sue, from Oregon, to her house just down the street and she made me eggs and toast and we talked and read the paper and enjoyed each others company! What a gift! She, living there for only 3 years, didn't know much about the trail. So I told her about that, and she told me about Oregon and Wyoming and we had a great time! Then well fed, and feeling like I had a home in Harper's Ferry I went back over to the ATC to wait until opening at 9A. In the back Admin offices I charged my phone and talked to Dad. Then, I walked out of the back of the Bldg, turned two corners of the Bldg to come around front of it, and who's standing there but Stumblewolf himself! Haha! Stumby! my old buddy from Northbound in PA! What a gift! By this time I couldn't hardly believe it! I was so anxious about being alone, and having no company. Jehova Jira! He was hiking SOBO on the same day, and so I ended up hiking out with him, and eventually stayed with him until the middle of Thursday. What great company! We talked about all our old NOBO friends and the trail up North the whole day. The guy at the ATC office was much more helpful and talkative than the prior guy on June 6th! This made me feel much better and more welcomed. So, with all these great encounters and the fantastically clear weather, I can't tell you how good I felt being back!

One of the things I've missed the most is waking up in the woods. What a wonderful feeling. I love the trail here too. It was a great first day back on the trail, and I felt so blessed by all the occurrences that happened that day! So much to be thankful for! O.k. this post is pretty long, so I'm going to make a second one about Shenendoah National Park hiking. Thank yall so much for following!!

Starting southbound

I arrived at Harpers Ferry, WV Tuesday evening to begin the southbound portion of my trip. A bus from Knoxville to Washington DC, then a train ride to Harpers Ferry. The layover was great, I was able to see Capitol Hill and the National Mall since the bus and train stations both were at Union Station in the heart of DC. I didn't do too much walking! I slept next to the Potomac River in Harper's Ferry Tuesday evening. Wednesday morning I went to the ATC center (which is in Harpers Ferry)to check in and see how many southbounders (SOBOS)had passed through recently. As I was walking near the ATC center, I struck up a conversation with a woman walking her dog. She invited me into her home, and fed me eggs, toast and coffee for breakfast. Strangers along the trail have been awesome with their generousity.

There were not many SOBOS signed in at the ATC, so company may be sparse on the south leg. I did meet up with Stumbleman, who I had met in Pennsylvania. He is just doing sections. I'm in the Shenandoahs now, after days of 11, 23 and 29 miles. The terrain has been fairly easy. I'm delaying a food resupply until Waynesboro. The Shenandoah National Park has frequent concessions, whith burgers and blueberry milkshakes. I was with two SOBOS at the shelter last night, which was nice. I'll probably update the blog on Wednesday in Waynesboro. Thank you for reading! This post by Dad, Sam has no comouter access.

Schedule and Other Things

Good Morning! The break has been great! I saw an orthopedist about my knee, and he said it's nothing serious. I've been stretching my quads a lot because that is all I can do for the clicking. I'm getting back on the trail Wednesday! To get back, I'm riding a bus from Knoxville to Washington, D.C., then hopping on a train to Harper's Ferry, WV. It will take all day Tuesday to get there, but that is about the best way to do it. I'm excited to hike again, but ready to have it done as well! I would love to have some of yall come hike with me! I'd love for anyone and everyone to come out if you have the desire and/or the time! And don't worry about me slowing down at all. I am perfectly happy hiking a shorter distance and seeing a good friend! Here is my tentative schedule for the rest of the hike. This schedule is an estimate, and very subject to change. I made it using an 18 mile per day average, which is what I expect to be doing.

SEPTEMBER
8th - Harper's Ferry, WV
9th - Cross into Virginia
11th - Enter Shenandoah National Park (Next 105m)
15th - Pinefield Hut (1292.8m from Katahdin)
17th - Waynesboro, VA 22980
20th - Buena Vista, VA 24416 (US 60)
25th - Lamberts Meadow Shelter (1469.4 from Katahdin)
- Daleville, VA 24083; Troutville, VA 24175 (US 11)
30th - Doc's Knob Shelter
- Pearisburg, VA 24134 (VA634)

OCTOBER
5th - Partnership Shelter (1651.9m from Katahdin)
- Atkins, VA 24311
8th - Tennessee Border
- Damascus, VA 24236
10th - Iron Mt. Shelter (1741m from Katahdin)
13th - Enter Roan Mt. State Park (TN143/NC261)
15th - Erwin, TN 37650
19th - Hot Springs, NC 28743
20th - Max Patch (1927.1m from Katahdin)
21st - Enter Great Smoky Mts. National Park
25th - Fontana Dam, NC 28733 (NC28)
27th - Nanatahala Outdoor Cneter (US 19)
30th - Georgia-North Carolina Border (2102m from Katahdin)
31st - Hiawassee, GA 30546 (67.3m to Springer Mt.)

NOVEMBER
2nd - Neels Gap
4th - SPRINGER MOUNTAIN; TERMINUS 2178.9 miles


Again, this is a really loose schedule that can definitely change! I expect to be fairly close to it however. I love company; whether for a day, weekend or longer!

A couple things about coming to hike. There are several parking lots at all the trailheads. The guidebook I have is really good for finding them, so let me know a little in advance and I can help you out with finding a spot. On that same note, I know it's pretty hard not doing a loop, and finding a way back to the car. I don't have many suggestions here. The White Mountains National Park had a shuttle system for my Dad and Mr. Bean when they visited, and Dow took a taxi back when he visited. There's always hitching :) Also, the Appalachian Trail Conservancy sells maps for sections of the AT, but I don't think you can buy them separately. I think you'll be forced to buy them for a section of trail like "Central Virginia." So do whatever there. My guidebook is sufficient, so if you know your plan, that is probably enough when hiking. If you need help, call me or write me and I'll try to get back to you soon. You can also call my Dad for some help planning. It would be a good idea to call him anyway, because I talk to him every three to six days. So, Dad knows what's going on, and can help plan if you need it. (901-853-4967)

Also, I like packages and letters! Here is a list of post offices that I will or can pass through on the trail. Address whatever it is like this:

Sam Moody
c/o general delivery
city, state zip
Hold for AT Hiker
my expected arrival date

POST OFFICES
-188 N. Main St.
Hiawassee, GA 30546
-50 Fontana Rd.
Fontana Dam, NC 28733
-111 Bridge St.
Hot Springs, NC 28743
-201 N Main
Erwin, TN 37650
-211 N Reynolds St
Damascus, VA 24236
-5864 Lee Hwy
Atkins, VA 24311
-206 N Main
Pearisburg, Va 24134
-1492 Roanoke Rd.
Daleville, VA 24083
-2071 Forest Ave
Buena Vista, VA 24416
-200 S Wayne Ave
Waynesboro, VA 22980
-120 E 3rd
Front Royal, VA 22630

That's about it. I'm anxious to get back to hiking, and look forward to making more posts. Thanks for following, and hope to see some of yall out there!

Sam The Kid

Katahdin

Hey Everyone! To continue the story, I arrived at the Abol Bridge Campsite at the end of the 100 mile Wilderness, ate a bunch at the campstore, drank a half gallon of milk, and began my hike to the base of Katahdin the next morning through Baxter State Park. The trails were really nice here too, and the AT followed the river most of the 10 miles to 'The Birches' where I stayed the night before I summitted. The Birches is a shelter reserved just for Thru-hikers, and I was there that night with 3 others, who all went up the next day. Kashmir, a nobo I got to know well, was staying near the birches with his parents who gave me some food and drink that night! I went to bed a little anxious, not only because of the obvious, but also because the forecast for my final day wasn't looking good; 40-60% chance of rain and high winds. Here is my journal entry for August 16th, the day I summitted.

"At 6:35A I began the climb up Katahdin with Wrongway. Obviously we took the AT up which in Baxter andgiong up Katahdin is also called the 'Hunt' trail. The first mile was easy, but it began to get more challenging as the hike went on, and soon it was raining. A light mist at first, then harder with harsh 30-50 mph winds above treeline! The trail turned to bouldering about 2m in, then turned into climbing with 3m in, then up on the table for the last 1.5m was flat. I was very thankful to have Wrongway with me. To start, the trail up was dangerous due to the added challenge of rain and wind. And secondly, he is one of those guys who is a constant; always positive in most any circumstance and can keep spirits up despite the outside environment. Maybe it was the face he was done or maybe he's that way all the time. I don't know, but it was great hiking with him. We talked all the way up until we couldn't hear each other anymore because of the wind.
It was probably the coldest I've ever been in my life! Once on top I wasn't there long. I got my pictures, and was gone the next few minutes. The wind was howling, and the rain coming down. There was no view and it was cold. I was soaked through, and just wanted shelter from the wind. So I ate a quick snake and headed down the Saddle Trail to Chimney Pond Trail to Roaring Brook Campsite. I was strangely unemotional wrapping up this first leg. This is surprising mostly because I thought I would be, having teared up at the though of it many times before.
The trail down was easier. I actually ran the first mile in order to get warm! I was huffing and puffing, intentionally breathing hard, and flexing to try and warm up. It was a rough experience (Katahdin in rough weather). I'm glad I did it, but a kinder day with weather would've made for a much more pleasant experience.
I actually saw several people going to the peak on the way down! I told them they wee crazy on my way down and in passing they all said "Yeah I know!" All in all it was just a misson. An in and out, say I did it experience. I think someday I would like to return on a clear day to enjoy the mountain like it was meant to be. People said the views are incredible, and I'd love to experience that.
The rest of the hike didn't take long. I was down at the entrance to Roaring Brook by 1P I think. The first car that went by picked me up, and took me all the way to Bangor (2hr drive)! Not originally the plan, but I figured since they were going that way and said I could ride, it would be a good place to be just in case something messed up; I'd have options. Plus the ticket was probably cheaper.
I was dropped off at the Greyhound station, and bought my ticket to Knoxville right away for $165. It departed at 6:30A next day, and arrived at 5P Wed. A day and a half; goody! After buying the ticket I was directed to the Laundry down the block on Main st. and did some laundry...The next thing to do was find a place to stay. Back in Rangely, the hiker named Little Cubit had given me a card for this guy in Bangor whose apt she stayed at completely on his good graces. She met him on bus ride randomly, and mentioned needing a place to stay, and the guy offered up his.
So, I called Lawrence, a 52 yr old bachelor who writes, travels, and does paralegal work as well as substitute teaches. He picked me up, and I was a little unsure about the whole thing, but soon warmed up, and he was an extremely nice and accommodating person. He bought spaghetti stuff, and we had a great dinner with corn on the cob and steamed broccoli. I bought the beer. Had a great shower, and then we walked around this beautiful neighborhood were his apt is located; old growth trees, huge victorian houses, one owned by Stephen King and got some ice cream.
What a wild day. One of those were it feels like you have traversed the globe for sure! 1,165 down...1,014 to go :)"

I will be making some more posts periodically throughout my break at home. I am planning on starting my Southbound hike from Harper's Ferry, WV shortly after Labor Day. Currently I'm in Knoxville, will be in Memphis for around 10 days starting this Monday, and then will go to Nashville/Knoxville again before leaving. That's the plan. I'll also make a very loose schedule for hiking south because I know and hope that a few of yall will be coming to hike some with me! More on that and other things soon. Thank you so much for following and reading! It means a lot :)

The Kid

100 mile Wilderness

Good morning everyone! I'm going to make several posts as if I would've been making them as I went along. Unfortunately, I have not had access to a computer until now. The 100 mile wilderness was absolutely amazing! I had a wonderful time, and my knee did not bother me a bit other than the noise it made. The first day was great, and I don't think I mentioned that I was able to restock nearly all of my food from the hiker boxes in Monson at each hostel! I am just going to copy my journal entry from the day.

"Today was a delightful day which began with Shaw's breakfast. I packed up and hung my tarp to dry in the morning sun, and joined the waking crowd in the hiker room for some coffee. Ed showed up late last night, section hiker from Boston. I really enjoy his company. Sondance is the only other thru here for breakfast, but there are many others who are sectioning or sightseeing. It is a fun crowd, and breakfast was delicious! They served us. It was a fine spread of OJ, Eggs any way you want them, home fries, cheese grits!, bacon, sausage, and blueberry pancakes. I had 4 of Everything, and can honestly say that I wasn't hungry in the slightest until 3PM today.
Packing up the last bit of food, I said my goodbyes. I was so glad to have made a note of the food in the refrigerator, otherwise I would've surely forgot it. Dawn, the hostel owner, took me to the trailhead where I got a picture taken for my by the guy who runs the Appalachian Trail Lodge in Millonoket, Paul. He was dropping off a shuttle of people. It was cool to meet him ahead of time, and also because the hikers at Shaws had talked about him earlier.
So, I set out on the trail on this bright sunny day at a diliberately slow pace of preservation, not wanting to give my knee anymore reason to fail. People don't usually pass me, however due to my slowed pace one of the sightseers from the lodge came upon me shortely after I departed. We hiked together. He was great for company, but I never caught his name before he peeled off 7m into it; that was all he had planned to do.
The 100 mile wilderness has been spectacular so far! I love Maine! The trailwork is impressive, and the views are great. I hiked on several ledges today, past a great waterfall, and skirted several ponds. The tempature is amazing as well, a cool mid 70s with a breeze! On top of Barren Mt. the view was great! I wasn't quite sure which peak was Whitecap, but I'll find out soon enough. I was able to easily pick out the Bigelow Range, as Avery peak is very recognizable. After Barren, Cloud Pond Lean-to was only 1m down, and 0.4m off on a side trail. Emerging from the woods, I caught my first glimpse of the pond around 5:45P. The sun was shining bright across the water, almost to a blinding effect. It was immaculate, and I could hardly wait to take a dip.
I am the only one here tonight. I always hope for company, but am content without it as well. The swim was great! Very refreshing, and I could hear, but not see, a moose across the water. I ended the night with 'celebration dinner' and reading. The mice are too friendly, so I've set up the mosquito net. Today was indeed a perfect day! Love Maine!"

So, long post but I figured that gives a good description of everything that happened on my first day. The rest was full of interesting things. I hit trail magic in the middle of the wilderness on the second day! I grabbed three sodas, trail bars, and a homemade whoopie pie. I also saw three moose on my last day!! The trailwork was increadible, and I really love Maine. I completed the 100 mile wilderness in 4 days (19m, 24m, 33m, and 23m). At the Abol Bridge, entrance to Baxter State Park and end of the wilderness, I ate a bunch, and hung out with this really nice couple from the Maine coast. Anyway, this is long enough. I'll post about the climb up to the terminus soon. Thanks for following!!

The Kid

Shaws

Hi Everyone! Today I hiked into Monson, Maine! Monson is a nice little town with two great hostels. I'm camping out in the back of one named Shaw's. Shaw's has been the talk of the trail for the past hundred miles or so. The owners are very hospitable, and the breakfast is infamous; eggs, bacon and blueberry pancakes! The last few days have been very nice. Out of Stratton I hiked up the Bigelow range over Avery Peak and some others. The weather could not have been more perfect; sunny and visibility was amazing! I had a zero in Stratton because of a few things. When I returned from Rangeley, the weather was not good. It began to rain that afternoon, and didn't let up, so I decided to stay. Also, six other NOBO hikers turned up. We had a fun night hanging out in the hostel! Tic-toc and Cookie, some hikers I met way back in PA also came in. Seeing them was great because I thought I wouldn't after the Whites; a nice surprise! In the morning I had eggs benedict at the restaurant in town (one of three places of business in Stratton) with Tic-toc and Cookie. Having a full belly, I set out to tackle the last serious elevation changes of Southern Maine. After the Bigelows it flattened out.

I crossed the 1,000 mile mark my second day out of Stratton! The last two days were pretty flat, and there have been multiple streams/ponds to enjoy a dip in. I'm thinking of yesterday afternoon especially. My knee began to make a funny clicking noise when I was half a mile from the shelter. It was around 4PM, and I stopped at that shelter to rest. Better safe than sorry, right? There was a stream next to Horseshoe Canyon Lean-to; a very refreshing dip. I then spent the afternoon hanging out with two older gentleman that had already flip flopped from Harper's Ferry WV; Padre and Restless Legs. They were great for company, and the evening ended nicely with some reading.

This morning as I hiked, I was very worried about the knee. It doesn't hurt, but it clicks every step I take going downhill. I can feel it and hear it. So, I'm hiking slow, taking anti-infammitories, and trying to just not make it worse. My toe healed up completely! So, I'm feeling good, but if it's not one thing it's the other. Anyway, I'm going to hobble along and hope it doesn't get worse.

Today was great. I hiked 9 miles into Monson, and hung out around the hostel all day. Tomorrow I will have the world renowned breakfast, and start the 100 mile wilderness. I am planning on being done sometime around the 17th, next Tuesday. Hope yall are doing great, and having wonderful summers! Looking forward to seeing everyone, and being back in Tennessee for a few weeks! Thanks for the interest!!!

The Kid

Happy Feet

Hi Everyone! I'm in Stratton, Maine to resupply for the next 4 days. I arrived yesterday afternoon, and was picked up at the trail head by the hostel owner in town named Sue. She's a former thru-hiker from 2005 who now runs a hostel alongside her motel and restaurant. It's a nice place, with all the usual amenities plus a kitchen to cook in! I made chicken pot pie last night...delicious!, and watched Mission Impossible.

This morning has been busy. I hiked into town yesterday with a sore big toe on my left foot. It was red, inflammed, and just not looking too good, so I had it checked out this morning. The closest doctor to Stratton is in Rangeley. I was in and out of the clinic shortly after arriving. My toe has an infection around the nail, but will be healing up shortly. I have a prescription to take if it gets worse. Dr. Knapp also told me to soak it in warm water everyday. I've been trying to think how I'm going to do this without sticking my foot in my eating bowl! There is not much else I have to hold hot water for that. Maybe a light bulb will appear sometime today.

Now I am ready to get back on the trail once more. Sue will be picking me up this afternoon to take me back to the trail head. Four days until I reach Monson, Maine. This is the last town stop before the northern terminus of the Appalachian Trail, Katahdin. Monson is 114 miles from the end, and is the start of the 100 mile wilderness which my guidebook describes as being 'the climax of your odyssey.' This stretch of trail comes into contact with nothing but a few logging roads, and an old man with hamburgers in the middle. Supposedly you come up to a pond with an air horn, blow the air horn once and only once, and the guy motors his way across the river to come pick you up and take you back to his place. I've heard it's not cheap, but that probably doesn't stop most people from the 1 lb burger he sells. I know I generally get pretty carnivorous after being in the woods for a while. I'm really looking forward to the section!

Still no moose sightings yet, but I still have a long way to go. Apparently they like to hangout around ponds and muddy areas, but I have seen tracks and droppings on the ridges as well. I hike quietly, and am always looking around for a moose, so hopefully I'll see one soon. As always, thanks for following :)

The Kid

Maine

Hello! Today I am taking a well deserved zero day in Rangeley, Maine. I am very thankful for a day of rest. Last night, and tonight, I'm staying at Gull Pond Lodge, a hostel run by a very happy older man named Bob. The hostel is located right on Gull Pond, and has great swimming. I hope to be able to hop in again today if the weather calms down. It is turning out to be a well planned day off, wet and gusty here. Real food has been awesome too! The last two days, I have lived off a bad resupply from the general store in Andover. I was rushed into buying food (literally had minutes), and ended up with a diet consisting mostly of poptarts, oreos, gummy bears, slimjims, and macaroni n' cheese. So, entering Rangeley I went to the IGA supermarket, and knowing I could use the kitchen at Gull Pond Lodge, I bought stuff for tacos and omelets! Breakfast was good this morning.

I've hiked 103 miles since Dad left Wednesday. They were rough days, and my body took a beating. I feel like I've been punished. Maine hasn't let me go a single day without falling and scraping an arm or leg. About two hours after Dad left, I was descending Wildcat Mountain down to Carter Notch when I snapped a hiking pole. I leaned a little too much on the right pole, and next thing I knew I was lying on the ground with a scraped up leg and three sections of hiking poles, instead of two. That didn't do much for my spirits. I have found the most challenging days emotionally on the trail are the days after a visit from family and friends. It has been hard adapting to hiking with one pole. This combined with rugged terrain of Maine has led to more tumbles in the last 5 days than I have had the entire trip.

It is hard to complain though. Minor cuts and bruises are easy to deal with, and just part of the hike. Maine is such a rewarding state as well, and my favorite so far on the trail! If ever there was a place I would want to revisit, it would be here. My first or second day into the state I climbed the Baldpates. These mountains are fun to climb, and the above treeline peaks made for amazing views. I could see the White Mountains to the South, the mountains yet to come in the North, and plenty of other ranges to the East and West. Descending East Baldpate, I realized that I was completely surrounded my mountains in every direction. There was not a direction you could hike from off that peak without hitting a climb in the next 20 or 30 miles. What a great view!

Another plus to Maine has been the ponds. They are everywhere, and make for great swimming! Two days ago was a tough day. I was coming to the end of 20 miles which had consisted of several climbs, and one was of the most challenging days since entering Maine. Anyway, the trail skirted around Long Pond, and in the distance I heard some people camping down by the water. Cresting a hill I saw two cans of beer with a Hershey bar sitting on top of them, right in the middle of the trail! I guess they had left them there for a hiker to enjoy, and I sure did enjoy them. Hooray for trail magic! 0.3 miles away from the shelter I came up to a swimming area at the edge of Long Pond that faced to the West. It was late in the afternoon when I sat down on the bench and soaked in one of the most beautiful sights of the trail so far. The pond was calm, ducks were swimming on the water, mountains set in the background, and the sun set orange over the water. It was peaceful, and a great end to the day! I love Maine.

There hasn't been many other Northbound hikers around me lately. I think the Whites spread everyone out. Some took days off afterwards to give knees a rest, some started to hop around and skip sections of trail, and others have just slowed down or sped up. I met Walking Man and Grace n' Glory at Speck Pond Shelter. They're a nice older couple who started from Springer, but I didn't stay with them for very long. Several AMC groups have been around, as well as many trail crews doing maintenance. Southbounders have been coming for a while now, but I think the main bubble of them has passed by. So there has been company, but no one to hike with. That's o.k. I have a good book to read, and am nearly to the end; no problems with a little alone time. I am sure I'll be ready for some company soon though.

I'm anxious to get home and see everyone! Two more weeks of hiking, and I will be done with my first section! The total mileage count now is around 940 miles, and I have 220 miles to go from Rangeley, Maine. Today is day number 59 on the trail since I began on June 6th. I'm really enjoying the last stretch of trail in the Northeast; 100 mile wilderness coming up soon, then Momma K! Thanks for all the support and encouragement! It helps out a lot when I'm struggling though the rough spots during the day to think of that. Hope yall are doing great! I am not sure how many more posts I'll be able to make, but I'll do my best to keep this blog updated. Cell phone reception can be hard to come by, and there aren't many town stops from here to the end. Thanks again for the interest :)

The Kid

White Mountains pictures

This is what the "trail" looked like for about 7 miles north of Mt. Washington. It made for a long afternoon (Dad is posting this, those are my words. It didn't seem to bother Sam that much).

Dad and Sam with peaks north of Mt. Washington

Mr. Bean with Sam on Franconia Ridge in the clouds, which limited visability all day. The clouds and wind of about 40mph made a really cool atmosphere to hike in.

Dad and Sam with the morning peaks behind them, taken from Mt. Washington. Winds about 60mph here.

Dad climbing a drainage on the way up from Crawforn Notch

Presidents

Hello Everyone! I'm in Gorham, NH getting restocked, doing laundry and about to get a burger! This morning, Dad and I hiked 5 miles to Pinkham Notch Visitor Center from Osgood Tent Site, which is at the base of the Presidential Mountain Range. It was great to chill with the Presidents, but it was one tough hike! As Dad put several times, "MAN! Even the downhills have uphill!" We began the hike up the range Monday afternoon after purchasing a new camera to take pictures. The climb to Mizpah hut was steep, and this was our first exposure to the high winds that are present throughout that section. Monday's hike was 9 miles, and we earned every one of them. The trail was steep out of Crawford Notch up to the tenting area with many rock scrambles. The White Mountain National Forest has these 'Forest Protection Areas' that are around each hut, campsite and road. There are signs that let you know not to camp 1/4 mile away from huts and established campsites, 1/2 mile from road, and 200 ft from trail. So, a quarter mile before reaching camp we saw the sign; a welcomed sight after the steep climb late Monday afternoon.

Tuesday was a fantastic day! We could not have asked for better weather. There was hardly a cloud in the sky all day. The winds were brutal at times, and that wore me down just as much as the rocky trails going over and around the 7 peaks of the Presidential Mountain Range. Tuesday's hike was above treeline for the majority of the day, 12.7 of the 15 miles! We had increadible views of the Franconia Ridge, which we had hiked the two days prior, completely inside a cloud with 40-50mph winds. It was super nice to be able to see the ranges we had already done! The view from our first peak on Tuesday was increadible (Mt. Eisenhower I think), and just got better all day! I had that 'on top of the world' feeling all day; being able to see probably 30 miles or more in every direction! Huts were spread throughout our hike, which were a welcome break from the wind. The summit house on top of Mt. Washington was a madhouse, and I didn't care for it much. I kinda wish it wasn't there at all; people running around everywhere, kids screamin, people yelling to each other, crowding the summit sign, and whatever else; and that was on a Tuesday! Could you imagine that place on a weekend? Anyway, it was nice to be on the tallest, and the wind was extremely powerful which was cool.

The rest of the day was great as well! Again, it could not have been a more perfect day weather-wise to hike. I'm a little sun and wind burned, but that is to be expected. The trail was very rocky on the north side of Mt. Washington, but also had some of the best views of the range. We finished the day hiking up Mt. Madison and down to Osgood tent sight. I have some great pictures that I'm sure Dad will post here in the next few days. It was awesome seeing Dad and Mr. Bean!; great to have company and someone to turn around to on the top of a peak to smile at and say 'Man, this is cool!' The food was good too. We tried some new things; pad thai noodles, torallini with sun dried tomatoes and parm cheese, and a rice dish I made up. Things are going extremely well! I'm sad to see Mr. Bean and Dad go. Their visit has been a lot of fun!

I have calculated the rest of my hike to Maine, and am expecting to be finished there on August 15th. The trail ahead is tough from what the SOBOs are saying (rocks, roots, mud, scrambles, elevation), but I'm ready to put out some hard miles. Hope you are all doing very well! There is so much about the Whites I done have the time to write about. It is a beautiful and challenging part of the trail, and I enjoyed it very much. Thanks again for your support and interest! Hope to talk and see yall soon

The Kid

White Mountains

Mark and Sam called yesterday with an update (since Sam hadn't posted anything since Monday, July 19) to let me know everything was going fine.

Mark and Jim Bean met Sam Friday morning and starting hiking. I'm not sure when the reached Mount Jackson - elevation 4016 feet, but Sam said it was the best view so far, but very windy (blew his hat off). They will be looking for ear plugs for their Presidental Mtn. Range hike - wind forecast 50-80 mph winds - but SUNNY! Sunday night they stayed at Nauman Campsite next to Mizpah Hut.

Sam thinks he may have athletes feet - dry and cracked. I think it is probably from the smelly socks.

They had to purchase a new camera - Sam landed on the old one, but the pictures were salvaged.

Mark says it's the hardest hiking he has ever done!!! But the knee is holding - THANK THE LORD!

Sam is having a GREAT time with Dad - Mom is very jealous :(

That's all for now. I'm hoping that the next blog will come from Sam, he does a much better job of it.

Fiber One

It seems as though trail builders throughout New Hampshire have never heard of a switchback before. Hiking has been much more challenging ever since getting into this state. Out of Hanover, I had two great days of hiking! It has been cool, breezy and cloudy. Currently I am at 'Hikers Welcome' hostel in Glenclif, NH; a nice place with showers, internet, beds and dinner. They shuttled us all into town to buy food about an hour ago. Tomorrow I am starting the day with Mt. Moosilauke, the first big peak in my hike (4,800 ft.). The top is above treeline!!! So, I'm super excited for that, and have only 28 miles until Franconia Notch where I am meeting my Dad and Mr. Bean on Thursday. Tomorrow, after climbing Moosilauke, I will cross Kinsman Notch which is the official starting point of the White Mountain National Forest. That is what is going on schedule-wise.

For those of you who have ever wondered if you can have too much fiber in a day, the answer is YES you can! Oats and caramel breakfast bars sounded pretty good to me when I was shopping for food, and I paid no attention to the fact that each bar contains 35% of your daily fiber. My first morning out of Hanover I had fiber one bars for breakfast. Multiply that by three, and guess what...it equals way too much fiber to have before 7 in the morning! I'm not going to say anything else other than it was a smelly day, and I wouldn't recommend fiber one bars to anyone unless you really need them.

I'm glad to have hiking poles for the elevation changes, which are getting more drastic as I get north. Weather is going to be one of the primary concerns coming into the ridges and mountains above treeline. The forecast is always the same for the Whites; partially cloudy, 50% chance of precipitation. Basically people have no idea if it will storm or not, and you just need to look around at the skies to see what's going on. Lightening storms are the concern, and when you see something coming it's immediately downhill to lower elevation for cover. Hopefully we will have great weather, and that won't be a concern.

Things are great, and I'll be in Lincoln, NH on Thursday. Talk to some of yall then I'm sure! Take care, and thanks for following!

The Kid

The Granite State: Live Free or Die

Well, I've made it to New Hampshire! I crossed the border this morning on my way into Hanover, and am now at the library. I'd say at least half of the cars are subaru's and prius's. License plates have 'The Granite State' motto written on them; Live Free or Die! Today, Hanover is very lively with Streetfest, a festival on main street with lots of vendors and live music. Upon arrival, I went to the Dartmouth Outing Club to obtain information about where to go. Dartmouth is still busy with activity, and I have been able to park my stuff at a hiker friendly fraternity house, Phi Tau. They let me take a shower, do some laundry, charge my cell phone, and eat some cookies. Most of the time they let hikers stay, but tonight they are hosting a cookie event with several hundred people, so I will be finding another place to stay in town. Later this afternoon I'll be going to the bookstore, hanging out on campus and at the festival, and enjoying a short day.

The last two days have been strenuous. I hiked 20 miles each day, but for some reason they were harder than normal; I'm blaming elevation. It was difficult to get myself motivated to hike yesterday though. I really just didn't want to, and it didn't help that I had a ripped pack to worry about either. I stopped at this farmer's market on VT12 to eat. They let me use the phone there because cell service is hard to find in rural Vermont. Six Moon Designs, the gear company they manufactures my backpack, is sending me a loaner pack while they repair mine. So, I should have my old pack fixed in a couple of weeks no problem. It is a hassle to mail this stuff back and forth, but that is the way Six Moon wants to handle it...whatever. Anyway, I had 12 miles down yesterday by 3P and was taking a break at Thistle Hill Shelter wishing I could just stop there when I saw a cheeseburger joint in my guidebook, right on the trail, 5 miles away! I didn't need much more motivation than that, and had a burger, fries and an orangina in front of me 2 hours later. It was delicious!

My boots are now broken in, and much more comfortable to hike in. I think my left foot may be slightly bigger than my right because only my left foot had problems with blistering. I've been wearing my glasses now for a month. I think the last time to wear contacts was in Worthington State Forest in northern Pennsylvania. It's much easier to throw on glasses everyday than mess with putting contacts on. As for other gear issues, there are not many. I'll be switching out to a warmer sleeping bag soon for the higher elevation areas of NH and ME. Everything else is working out well.

I have been meeting a lot of SOBOs (Southbound thru-hikers) the last few days. It is nice to hear their experiences and stories from the two states I have coming up. I spent last night at the shelter with a SOBO named Mountain Goat and his dog Lou. It was good to get some advice on where to stop and what to check out further up the trail Hopefully I'll recognize a couple southbounders that I'm meeting now when hiking south from WV; that would be cool. The trails have continued to be well kept even out of the Green Moutain National Forest. The Dartmouth Outing Club (D.O.C.) is in charge of maintaining the trail from VT12 to Kinsman Notch (start of the White Mountain National Forest). You know you are near Dartmouth when the sign hanging from the shelter at Happy Hills is comprised of mosaic tiles. Eastern, rural Vermont was gorgeous, and I really enjoyed hiking through the open fields, pastures and ski slopes. It was nice to duck in and out of the woods every once in a while to catch a glimpse of barns and country life.

Hope you are all doing great! I miss home, friends, and everything else. Today is day 42 on the trail, and I am very much looking forward to late August when I get to see everyone again. I'm still enjoying the hike very much, and am anxious for what is coming up; treeline in 3 days!! As always thanks so much for the support and interest!

Sam the Kid

The Long Trail

The Long Trail overlaps with the Appalachian Trail for the first 105 miles of Vermont, and runs the length of the state to Canada. Right after Rutland, where I am posting from, the two trails part ways and the AT starts to head East toward New Hampshire and the White Mountains. The trails in Vermont have been spectacular! They are maintained by the Green Mountain Club, and have been in great condition. While hiking yesterday, Longshanks and I saw a trail crew building a new section of trail. They were all nice enthusiastic people, and really excited to be out working. Vermont does have the nickname 'Vermud' however, which has been fairly fitting most days. The views from atop the mountains are the best so far, and the water has been amazing. Springs are everywhere, and the water coming out is crystal clear and super cold!

After Dow left I had a pretty strenuous day due to a detour I didn't fully understand. That paired with a long day yesterday has led me to an easy 6 miles into Rutland today. I've been hiking with some friends the past two days; Longshanks, Maple, Tic-Toc and Cookie. Last night was cold and wet on top of Mt. Killington. There is a lodge on top to sleep in with 4 walls, so that helped cope with the cooler temperature. The peak is just shy of being above treeline at 3850 feet. I'm ready to get above treeline and have some great views!

Anyway, the time is limited to 30 minutes on this computer, so I'm going to get moving. Everything is working out well. I'll be in Hanover, NH on Saturday; wow...NH already! Hope you are all doing very well

Sam The Kid