Up bright and early. Packed up, suited up, and caught the shuttle back to the dam. Thunderstorms, snow, and cold in the weather forecast. All the hikers seemed nervous about the potential weather and the Smokies. 

I crossed the dam, followed the blazes to the entrance of GSMNP, and deposited my permit in the box. I hustled up the hill. My legs fresh from the rest day. Just as I summited the first climb, it began to rain. Lightly at first. But then the intensity increased. 

There was a nearby campsite. I cruised in and pitched my tent as the thunder began to clap. I crawled in and got into my sleeping bag. All toasty warm and dry. I napped for an hour until the rain stopped. 

Then it was back to the Trail. My mileage needs to be in the teens the next three days. My goal is Gatlinburg by Friday afternoon. There’s family to meet and a cabin with a hot tub. So I pressed forward. Today’s mileage 14.1. In 7.5 hours. 

My legs felt strong today!  Hoping they are that good tomorrow too. 

Currently…there is no rain. But it’s cold and the wind is whipping. Already in the tent with no intentions of getting out. 

I just hope it doesn’t snow.