Natural Bridge, VA (USA)

Would have seen the sunrise this morning, if it were visible (too much fog)... On the drive up the Blue Ridge Parkway, I narrowly avoided several herds of deer - standing, unafraid, in the road. Arrived at the trailhead at Petites Gap (m/m 71) by 0700 but continued about five miles south to set up a 20 mile day. I had replaced the chain on Ol' Reliable last weekend and was itching to test out her new portage abilities. So I rode north, back to the Gap, and then hiked SOBO, up (4225 foot) Apple Orchard Mountain (0730). I soon encountered "Jabba" (south bound through hiker - started in December - yikes!). He said he was doing 30 miles today and quickly left me behind. But I could hear him for most of the morning (especially when he encountered other hikers - and there were plenty). It was so foggy, though, and I could barely see the poorly marked trail as I climbed higher into the clouds. I was drenched, too, by the time I crossed the BRP for the second time and headed deep into the woods. I quickly learned that Jabba liked to stop for various reasons, so I passed him a few times and he passed me right after - until the last encounter. I kept thinking of Brenna's matter-of-fact mantra (when we used to go biking): "slow and steady wins the race". And she was right - I beat Jabba to my turn around point (Cornelius Creek Shelter). There was plenty of climbing today - felt very sore after I started heading back. I was dragging by the time I reached Parker's Gap but was able to use a spur trail to get back to the BRP, which I used to get back to my car. I finished 15 miles of hiking by 1330 - not a bad day on the trail. Bonus: it never ended up raining on me. On the drive back, I was treated to views of many beautiful redbud bushes and trees, blooming everywhere. Retrieved my bike and backtracked towards home (via I-81). Got gas and Burger King (late lunch) in Mount Jackson (1530) and called my Dad. After switching to I-66, I made good time to my apartment (arriving at 1715). Got changed and drove over to Sabrina's for the tail end of her Easter Party. Overall, it was a great weekend! AT Today = 10.00 miles / Grand Total AT = 678.20 miles