Daleville, VA (USA)

When I woke up, I was not pleased to see the ominous clouds to the southwest... I had thought I'd have another day near Daleville but the forecast said that wasn't the case anymore: a huge storm was about to hit Virginia and drop temperatures by 40 degrees! I got breakfast at the hotel, filled up the gas tank (0730) and then drove to the Southern entrance of SNP, hoping to beat the weather. Made good time to the AT trailhead at Pinefield Gap. Headed NOBO at 0945. My target was a big hill on the north side of Simmons Gap. Within the first hour, it started to rain on me. I even put on my poncho but the precipitation soon stopped. The temps were warm enough (high 60s) that I quickly took off the rain gear. Encountered only one hiker all day (not talkative) and spooked a huge herd of deer (so many white bushy tails on the hill...). Colorful birds were everywhere - it looked (again) like Spring had sprung... Once I returned to Simmons Gap during my backtrack, I used Skyline Drive to reach my car. I finished my hike at 1215 after 7 miles, barely missing the rainstorm. My drive home was pretty easy until I hit the Beltway - rain makes crazy drivers (Grrrr...).  Used back roads to Little River Turnpike and managed to get to my apartment by 1500. Felt good after four straight days of AT.  If all works out well, I'll get a fifth tomorrow! AT Today = 3.40 miles / Grand Total AT = 875.96 miles