Natural Bridge, VA (USA)

[Six weeks without any AT experiences flew by - I really missed them! Even though I never set my alarm (and didn't even pack because I was up late playing games at Robert Wincer's last night), I still managed to get on the road by 0630. Got gas and breakfast in Raphine (0900). Made great time (I-495, I-66, I-81) and was at the trailhead (VA-614 again) three hours later. I've got a few sections left near the BRP and today's hike was essential to connecting with those. I started out NOBO and didn't see another person for more than 8 hours. In fact, the only evidence of people was the sound of distant Interstate traffic, two AT shelters, a deer stand and occasional glimpses of farms in the valley below. Otherwise, it was just me and the elements... I typically shed layers as I get hotter - today was no exception. This helped me complete almost 17.5 miles of climbs and descents (between 1000 feet and 3300 feet, more than once) on Fork Mountain and Floyd Mountain. Fortunately, almost all the snow from the last month was nearly melted (although I had brought my snow shoes, just in case). It wasn't really even cold, but sometimes the wind blowing through the threads of my polyblend shirt made me think I should layer up again (but I didn't)... Saw two deer on the trail and heard an extremely loud woodpecker near my turnaround point (at Cornelius Creek Shelter). Finished around 1730. It was a big risk (because I'm rusty) to hike the section and the distance - my entire body is protesting the decision right now. Still, I'm glad I didn't choose a short hike - it was a beautiful February day! Found a hotel in Natural Bridge (Relax Inn - 1800) Hope to hike back up to the same place again tomorrow: from Petites Gap. After I recover, of course (and finish this Mint Moosetracks "All Shook Up" Shake at the Pink Cadillac Diner at 1945)... AT Today = 8.70 miles / Grand Total AT = 615.80 miles]