Tuesday, April 16, 2013

Day 3

Well I'm now in to day 3 and I've been hiking with my Canadian buddy 'Gronk' each day. We've started at a modest pace, about 8 miles per day. Although there have been a few challenging climbs, such as Sassafras Mountain and Justus Mountain, we've been taking frequent breaks to rest and take in the amazing views (when the fog isn't obstructing them).

Hikers frequently use mail drops to send food and supplies along to lighten the load. Today we hiked in to Woody Gap around 1 to find a guy we knew being driven away in a police car. We had met him at Gooch Mountain Shelter the night before and we found out that he had sent himself a box of pot, which was conveniently delivered to his drop area at Woody Gap by an undercover cop! I guess his hopes of reaching Kathadin ended early.

Well, other than constantly feeling dirty, hanging food every night to keep from the bears, and having to sanitize water about 3 times a day, I have to say that I'm really enjoying myself. Tomorrow we plan to hike to Neel Gap where we'll be able to resupply, catch a shower, and possibly stay at a hostel. First we have to hike a few miles to Jerrard Gap where there is a 5-mile stretch of trail where a bear canister is required if camping overnight. Bear canisters are heavy, bulky, and somewhat expensive, so it seems every hiker is moving through this section without stopping. To avoid having to hike 15 miles today because of this, Gronk and I decided to tent at Lance Creek for the night, then get an 8am start tomorrow to make it to Neel Gap before the outfitter closes at 6.

Well, check back soon as I hope to post again tomorrow if I am able to get a signal...

5 comments:

  1. It's all so interesting to me! Wow, what a knucklehead that guy was to mail pot to himself.
    Please post pictures whenever you can, so we can see part of what you are seeing. Love you.

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  2. Git 'r dun! Make sure to post a pic of your feet after a day on the trail.

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    1. The feet are actually looking pretty good since I've been taking frequent stops for sock changes. Sorry, I'll have to give it another couple of weeks before they're pic worthy.

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  3. Sounds like a wonderful journey so far. Glad you and Gronk are not staying in the bear-laden area. I can't wait to find out what your trail name will be!

    I'm thinking of you Ad.

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    1. It's all bear-laden area, but there was just one really smart bear in that section. :)

      I may have a trail name soon, but I haven't accepted it yet until I feel worthy of it. I'll let everyone know as soon as it's official!

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