Night Two

So this is only the second night on the trail, and I am already in a hostel. It definitely wasn't my plan, but the weather here has been crazy. It's really cold (low 40s tonight) and I didn't plan for cold weather at all...its suppose to rain tonight, and the next two shelters were closed due to bear activity. For all the moms and grandmothers out there, don't worry. I have my shotgun slung over my shoulder at all times. I just found out at the hostel that the shelters are reopening tomorrow, so that's good news.

Yesterday was a great day. However, of the 11.6 miles I hiked, only 2.8 were actually AT miles. The AT Approach Trail was such a tease. If I was a rabbit, the AT tied a carrot in front of my face for the first 8.8 miles. It was a strenuous approach, and that was just to get the peak of Springer Mountain, the "official" start. I camped last night and slept fine. Some sprinkles in the night, so I wasn't thrilled about packing up a wet tent. Good thing its tiny.

Today was 17.6 mi. I didnt intend to hike that far, but if I wasn't eating...I was hiking. I took a long lunch (that was freezing) and ended up at Woody Gap. Three other hikers and I decided to take advantage of the hostel since the weather was unexpectedly cold. Hiking weather, perfect. Hanging out outside weather, very chilly. I listened to music a lot which helped with the hills. Instead of hearing my heart beat in my ears, I listened to Vetiver and Coldplay.

Tomorrow's plan is to hike around the same distance as today. I have linked up with two guys with a similar pace (two of Bryan Hill's friends, if you know who that is...) I heard they were starting the same day as me, but never thought I'd actually meet them. The next thing I know I am staying in a hostel with them. Small world...I wonder who else I'll meet.