So this really happened…

I was cruising down the trail and came across a trail junction to the parking lot. An older gentleman came down from the lot and turned in front of me onto the AT.  

He was wearing white Bermuda shorts, a polo shirt, and sandals. It was like he just got out of the convertible Mercedes. The trail turned uphill. 

I climbed and climbed…right on his heels.  He was holding a strong pace. Finally, I caught him and he let me pass. At that point, I pressed forward. I was pushing as hard as I could. 

Around a corner, I came on a rock outcropping. I stopped. Hoping to find a view. The dude in shorts was seconds behind me. He passed me and continued up the Trail. 

Damn…there goes my dignity. Over 900 miles in and I was passed by a guy with gold chains and Bermuda shorts…in sandals. 

But on the bright side…I forgot to mention the Waysides. The National Park has stores along Skyline Drive. We hit one for lunch yesterday. The gentleman at the counter even gave us a free beer!  

Today we pushed for Big Meadows. There is a wayside, Lodge, and campground. After chowing down some hot food and a few liquid refreshments, it was time to decide what to do. Camp or hit the Lodge?

We opted for the comfort of the Lodge. Dinner, drinks, and live music. A fitting end to a long day.