341.5 Miles, Erwin TN and PICTURES!!!

Hey folks,

Happy to say I made it to Erwin, TN Norovirus free (although I'd say about 30-40% of hikers I saw on this last stretch had gotten it). The past 68 miles from Hot Springs flew by, and were full of different terrain and beautiful features. 

These pictures were from a tough section of trail called "Firescald" where my data book strongly suggested to bypass due to strenuous, rocky, terrain. So of course I hiked to the top to find these views worthwhile. While up top, I did come across a man in his 50's who could not figure out how to navigate the terrain at one point. We saw a white blaze, looked around, and saw no more trail. I looked straight down over a steep ledge and saw that the trail dropped straight down about 10 feet before continuing down. I led the way and he lowered his pack down to me and was able to make it down as I provided spotting for him.

With the help of some local knowledge, I learned that these are from three Union sympathizers in the Civil War, ambushed here by Confederate soldiers on their own property; they were seen as traitors being in the south. 

One of my favorite sections so far. Very beautiful forests, pictures just don't do it justice.

 TRAIL MAGIC. THE BEST TRAIL MAGIC EVER.

Saw this sign at a shelter just before Sam's Gap and pretty much jogged there. 

 This is Quiet Paul, a Trail Angel. He's thru hiked NoBo, SoBo, and is now working on section hiking the AT. His wife recently passed away and he moved to Asheville so he spends a lot of time doing incredible trail magic. I sat there for an hour and this is all I learned about him, he's definitely a man of few words letting me know that his trail name was not one derived from sarcasm. But he fixed me the biggest plate of hashbrowns and eggs I've ever seen.

Trouble, Quiet Paul, and HoBo (Homeward Bound). 

Waaaayyyyyy in the distance is Big Bald, the highest point visible in the picture. In less than two hours from taking this picture (5 miles from this point) I was standing on the very top.

Same vantage point, just zoomed in.

Big Bald again

Sorry, no pictures from up top, I think I was too focused on food and after eating I laid on the ground in near coma enjoying the sunshine and a temporarily full belly.  Not sure if this video will work, but I just found it- I did manage to get some evidence of Big Bald.

And, the final picture from this section- a rainy hike into Erwin.

Actually spending a day or two at home changing out some gear and cleaning clothes and spending time with the family before I get too far north. I'll also get to see Kaity for a day or two and then she'll run me make to Erwin on Sunday as I prepare to head into a beautiful stretch of trail leading towards Damascus, VA. (with four more legs than I came home with)

As Always,  thanks for all of the support. This hike has already been an incredible experience and I am thankful for the opportunity. I hope this inspires some of you to get out and make some adventures of your own. Until next time, Pigpen.