Marion, VA (USA)

Got up early, packed and grabbed breakfast at Bojangles in the dark (0655). I returned to the AT trailhead on VA-670 and started NOBO at 0720. I started with my regular two layers, carrying two more, but was unable (and unwilling) to remove hat or gloves for the whole day. It was COLD!!!! My weather app said it was going to be in the mid teens until sunrise but - despite a beautiful view of the eastern sky - the clouds prevented a warm up for over three hours. I don’t think it ever got above 25 degrees - my water reservoir, my beard and my cell phone froze - my face hurt. It was particularly frigid on the ridge, where the snow was actually turning to ice... I did hear evidence of civilization today (dogs, cattle and horses in the farms, cars on the highway below) but saw no people or wildlife all day. Turned around at VA-601 and headed quickly back to my car. Just before I reached it, the sun came out and it got a lot warmer. Back on the road by 1040, after 8 miles, bound for another section. After seeing the road crews treating I-81 for a winter storm, I decided against more hiking and headed home via I-81. Got a gas fillup in Raphine (1330) and made pretty good time the rest of the way (I-66). Great weekend! AT Today = 4.00 miles / G.T. AT = 1074.17 miles