America's Long Trails

I've always wanted to do one of America's National Scenic Trails, but the weird thing is there are too many to choice from. Not only does America have its list of National Scenic Trails, but we have many long trails that curve their way all across the American landscape. I've always been drawn to what is known as the "Triple Crown" (AT, PCT, CDT) because they are the most well known, they have good "trail comradery", and they each tour diverse and beautiful section of the country. Initially, I wanted to do that Continental Divide Trail because of its scenery, length, and remoteness, but now I'm pretty much set on the AT. Though I want to do more long trails, I think the AT is a great first one (or only one) because of the experience of the trail itself. Sam is hiking the AT right now, and hearing about his experiences is what draws me in. Though the CDT and PCT are probably overall more stunning and beautiful, the AT is known for its people and tradition. From what I've seen, the scenery is still amazing and the landscape changes from state to state. I'm planning on heading out on March 1st, 2011. I just have to finish school, and secure post-trail plans...

Sea Kayaking on Fontana Lake

On June 26th and 27th, Gary, Ethan, and I loaded up to head out to Fontana Lake. The is a man-made lake created in the 1930s by TVA and is held back by Fontana Dam, the largest dam east of the Mississippi. We put in just east of the dam itself. It was extremely hot, and being in the kayak obviously made the water easily accessible. We paddled out to campsite 78 (~8 miles), but found some lazy motorboaters had snagged our spot. We swam more a while, and paddled back around the island to find another beautiful spot to camp right on the water. We set up camp, swam for hours (hunting fish with our knives...obviously), and cooked dinner. When the sun went down, we went glowstick diving. We tied a glowstick to a rock and threw it out into the water. Since Fontana is mountain stream runoff, the water is very clear with visibility down to 20 feet or so. We would throw it out pretty far but swimming down the far in pitch black water was erie to say the least.

The next day, we backtracked and paddled down the north shore of the lake, which makes up the southern portion of the Smoky Mountains. Gary found service and called Earth Fare to make sure he didn't have to work, monday, but found out he had to open that day. We were bummed, but took advantage of the rest of the day by swimming many more hours, and snorkeling, napping, and swimming on a shallow island we found. I love this part of the Smokies, and will continue to go back.