My plan was to get up early and get a head start on the crowd.  You know what they say about the best laid plans. I was awake on time. The cold kept me in my sleeping quilt. Finally hit the trail at the normal 9:15. 

Approximately 4.5 miles uphill right out of camp. Gradual at first and eventually resulting in switchbacks and staircases. The goal…Blood Mountain. 

My legs are getting stronger and my cardio is slowly improving.  My pace allowed me to pass a number of hikers going uphill. It felt good to summit on a clear day. Cameras do the view no justice. 

Getting down from Blood Mountain is another story. The first third is quite steep and somewhat tricky. Second third is not as steep but equally tricky.  The last third is typical AT descent. The entire 7.1 miles took me just under 5 hours. 

The trail exits into Neel Gap. I had planned to stay at the hostel or a nearby cabin. Both were full. Thankfully I had cell signal and found a cabin at Misty Mountain Inn. A bed, laundry, and shower. The owner, Craig, shuttled me to the local gas station. I secured a pizza and a six pack from the Booger Hollow store. 

Made a few gear repairs and plan to fall asleep early. No idea what tomorrow will bring.