Day 10 - Mar 2

I had another great night of sleep last night. Typically, I struggle with changing sleep schedules, especially if its drastic. I'm also much more of a night person than a morning person. Since our new life's schedule is so natural though, I believe this has helped me transition quicker. At the same time, Walker is also starting to sleep better now so maybe we just needed time to adjust to our new gear and lifestyle. 

We woke up at 6 and actually cooked breakfast at camp today. Most mornings we wake up, eat a pop tart or a granola bar and get on the trail. Since it was supposed to rain all day, we decided to eat plenty of food in the morning so we didnt have to stop so often in the rain. 

I dont believe the temp got under freezing last night or the day for that matter. Our waters didnt freeze and it wasnt absolutely awful getting out of bed.

Anyway, got on the trail around 730 and were met with a layer of ice and snow. Our first hour and a half were slow, as we were very mindful of how and where we stepped. What's very scary is that one wrong step could end this dream of mine. An injury could happen to anyone and it is crucial for me to remember I'm not above them. 

We got to wayah bald at 9 am and witnessed the last few minutes of a golden skyline being overwhelmed by the impending rain storm. As we descended from the bald, the rain began. 

I try my best to stay positive in the rain. I figure every day is a blessing and the rain serves its purpose. With that said, I wouldn't mind having to never hike in the rain again. With rain comes fog and with fog the views disappear. It is important for me to remember that hiking isnt only about the views, it's about the trail and the experiences that come by walking it. After overcoming inclement whether ever single day for almost the past week, I dont quite look forward to bad whether, but I cherish the feeling of overcoming the challenge. Basically, a feedback loop is established. Every challenge that I complete adds to my knowledge and confidence, which then feeds back into my ability to conquer what is thrown my way. 

Most of the day was spent in the pouring down rain. We had no views of mountains. Yet, the rain and fog provided it's own unique views. As the final snow melted, bands of steam rose up from every ridge within eyesight. It seemed as though there were a hundred small campfires with billowing smoke, a strange but enjoyable view. We would occasionally catch the shadowy glimpse of a closeby but visually distant mountain. 

Every day out here must be enjoyed for what it's worth. Nature will do whatever nature wants to do. Only I can decide how I react to it. 

We ended up hiking 19 miles today, from wine camp and spring to the nanthahalla outdoor center (117.7 to 136.6). Hiked for about 8 hours today, meaning our pace was slightly over 2 miles and hour. Similar to yesterday.  

Immediately upon arrival on town, we devoured food. I ordered a bowl of chili,  a buffalo chicken wrap and french fries. Real food is indescribably good. Everything we eat out here either doesnt need to be cooked or can be cooked by boiling water. Town food is amazing. 

We then got a shuttle to the cabin we are staying at for the tonight and tomorrow. We plan to take a zero here at the noc. I zero is a day where we hike zero miles. This should help us be adequately tested as we enter the smokies in 3 days. 

Our legs were so tired when we got into town, especially our knees. We had a 5 mile descent  from 5200 feet to 1800 feet. A break will be great. Tomorrow will be great. Everything is great. 

Looking forward to the upcoming days, but for now, I'll rest up and sleep for the next 36 hours until we have to leave wednesday morning. 

Goodnight, 

Tyler M.