Despite my less than ideal tent site, I slept pretty well. I was awake and trying to get ready at the normal time. It seems I must add about 15 minutes to my morning ritual because I don’t like the cold. 

The trail greeted me with continued snow, ice, & runoff. Shortly after leaving camp, there was a side trail to Charlie’s Bunion. What a cool spot!  Another memory for the memory bank. At least, as long as I still have a memory. 

The Trail followed a knife edge ridge line most of the day. So pretty!  Look left…Tennessee. Look right… North Carolina. It was the walk that one imagines when thinking about a thru hike.  So cool…so much work. 

Of course you can’t find shelter without paying a price. Two long climbs back into the snow. It’s never easy. 

Early to bed. Actually setting an alarm. Time to bust a move. I’m behind in miles and my lovely wife is coming on Friday. 

Hot Springs or bust.