It was a slow start this morning. I slept great. It was just so nice to hang around the hostel and the other hikers. Finally about 9:30, I hit the trail. Peter Pan was to shuttle back to where he left off and we were pushing to Max Patch. 

The saying “careful what you wish for” was readily apparent. I was so glad to be done with the Smokies that I forgot about the normal AT. Terrain in the Park was difficult, but mostly gradual. 

Not today!  Back to the steep, straight up stuff the AT is known for. What a day. Three really challenging climbs. Four if you count the ascent to Max Patch. Maybe it was just that I was tired. Anyway…it was 13.3 difficult miles. 

I camped on the grassy bald. A beautiful sunset. Hoping for an even better sun rise. I may not remember every day of this trek, but I’m sure I’ll remember Max Patch. 

Only twenty miles and approximately 48 hours until my lovely wife arrives in Hot Springs, NC. 

I have to be there…or I’m in deep trouble.