Sugar Grove, VA (USA)

Watched the weather all week and there were no good options for hiking - it was either snow or rain... Had a short day of work lined up, though, and didn’t want to waste it! Chose the southern zone and braved I-81 (along with I-495 and I-66) again, despite my claims of “never again” from earlier in the month. Got gas in Staunton (1300) and then had good luck with traffic all the way to Marion. Used VA-16, VA-603 and VA-600 to reach the AT Trailhead at Elk Garden (stopped for gas again in Sugar Grove at 1545). It was really foggy all the way from the Interstate to the parking lot. Started SOBO at 1630, bound for the summit of Whitetop Mountain. There was a light drizzle but it wasn’t cold. I was definitely prepared (poncho, two layers, overnight gear) for the changing conditions - every time I’ve been in the area I’ve been surprised by wild swings in temperature and high winds that started unexpectedly. The grade was actually quite pleasant and I made great time in my climb - it’s a good thing too because I was racing the sunset (1715)! Saw several white tails (but not an entire deer) but no people. The fog got worse and I encountered snow and ice (covering rocks I needed to climb) near the top. This slowed me down a bit but I was able to get to the access road before it was completely dark. Decided to use the road to get back to the car and it was a lot easier than trying to navigate roots and rocks and ice in the dark. I walked a long time without seeing any signs of pavement - started to wonder if I’d miscalculated but kept trudging along. It got really DARK! Had planned to use my headlamp but the fog and rain made it almost impossible to see with the light - instead, I tried to follow the lighter shades of dirt and, when I reached VA-600 again, the white line on the edge of the road. There was barely enough ambient light to make my way but I was startled a few times by low branches that “grabbed me”. Fortunately, only two cars passed me (one in each direction) so I was able to be on pavement all the way back. Was relieved when I reached the car again. Finished about 5.5 miles by 1830. Felt great and almost forgot that my clothes were damp. Of course, then I had to drive out of the mountains - through the fog. I made it to US-58 In only a few minutes but the 17 mile drive to Damascus required a lot of concentration and caution. When I briefly came back into cell zone, I was surprised to discover that I had a voicemail from Eileen. I called her back and waited in Shady Valley to keep the signal. After that, I had to finish the rest of the almost 40 mile drive to Elizabethton (TN) on slippery, foggy, curvy and scary mountain roads (including TN-91). Arrived at my comfy hotel(Travelers Inn) by 2015 and called Eileen back (nice conversation). After the day I’ve had, should feel exhausted - instead, I’m pretty jazzed about getting out on the trail again. The next few days will be wet but the hiking highs should make the drive worthwhile... AT Today = 2.40 miles / Grand Total AT = 1249.92 miles

Washington, DC (USA)

[work - at 1715, walked to Plan B, where I had a few drinks and some sliders - about 45 minutes later, I walked down Pennsylvania Avenue to the White House (stopping briefly at Old Ebbitt Grill) - by 1815, I was at the White House Visitors Center (checking in) and a few minutes later we walked into the seating area for the National Christmas Tree Lighting Dress Rehearsal! (access provided by my company) - it was cold but I really didn't notice it until I'd been there for about an hour - talked to the volunteers who were managing the check-in list - also saw a (very good) Santa Claus - at about 1915, all the performers came out and spent the next 45 minutes practicing their group songs - I'd expected a few solos by the (famous?) people but they never did that - by 2000, I was cold enough that I'd had enough - walked towards McPherson Square Metro Station but got drawn over to the front of the White House by some loud protestors (checked them out, they were ridiculous) - walked the rest of the way to the Metro and ended up getting on a Huntington bound train within a few minutes (no Yellow Line) - made it home by 2045]

Thanksgiving Trip - Day 5

[I woke the girls up at 0730 and we all started to get ready for departure - Mollie and I went to visit Chuck and Mary & Leo's family in the hospitality room and said goodbye - we also got some snacks and ate a light “breakfast” - at about 0800, we returned to the room and let the girls know to head up there too - Mollie and I stopped by Bonnie’s room and said goodbye to her and Kathy (we learned that the Twins had already stopped by to see her) - we checked out of La Cantera Resort & Spa at 0900 and our Uber driver (Gabriel again) picked us up about 15 minutes later - we drove to the San Antonio Airport (fortunately, no traffic) and checked our bag quickly (0940) - there was no line at Security and we got through easily (Mollie was even given a chance to try Pre-Check) - we found our gate (1000) and then the kids looked around for place to eat - Erin and I ended up getting brunch (burritos) at a Mexican diner called Rosario’s - later, Brenna and Mollie picked up food to go - while we were waiting to board our United Airlines flight, we all had a good chat about the trip and talked about going to future Thanksgivings - we got on our plane (a Regional Jet aircraft) at around noon and took off late - during the flight, we talked some more (about school, Winter Break and the upcoming semester) - Mollie and Brenna studied and I helped Erin with a crossword puzzle - we arrived at Dulles (1615) to nasty (cold and rainy) weather - it took us a long time to get to the baggage claim area (shuttle, train, lots of escalators) but our bag arrived quickly - we then had to walk a long way to reach Erin’s car - by the time we were driving (1710), we all felt pretty good about how the trip had gone - the ride home was difficult because of the weather and poorly painted lines on the Dulles Airport Road - we encountered lots of traffic near I-66 - Erin and Brenna had planned to drive back to Harrisonburg the same evening (I didn't really like this but asked them to be careful) - we stopped at Nicky’s house so Mollie could pick up textbooks and Brenna could pack for JMU (I said goodbye to her there) - Erin dropped Mollie and me off at my apartment at around 1900 and all three of us said our goodbyes - Mollie immediately cooked dinner (pizza, applesauce) - we watched another episode from the “Lonesome Dove” series - after that, Mollie went in her room to rest - Erin called me on the phone as she and Brenna arrived in Harrisonburg (2055) - Mollie and I went to bed at around 2230]

Thanksgiving Trip - Day 4

[from our hotel in La Cantera, I teleworked in the morning while the girls slept - I'd planned to meet up with my cousin, Sharon (from Austin), but found out that she was sick and was not able to visit with us after all (sad) - everyone was awake in our room by 0930 and we went to the family room to meet up with everyone - at 1030, we left for the Rim (I rode with Chuck) and everyone met up at the Santikos Amphitheater, where Mary had gotten us free tickets for the 1130 showing of the “Fantastic Beasts” sequel (and $0.50 popcorn!) - I also got beer for Chuck and Leo (1120) - we were all sitting in different parts of the theater but had a great time - we all met up again afterwards (1400) - we then went back to the hotel and Brenna did some studying - Mollie went to the hotel store and got some lunch (sandwich) with her own money - Brenna did the same thing later - we met up with the family again at around 1545 - Leo had let me borrow his car and we (our family and Sean) used it to get to their house in Boerne - we explored Mary and Leo's new house - we later drove into town for the “Dickens on Main” event - the girls and I walked around for a few hours, enjoying the shops and picking up a light dinner (Frito pie, beignets) - eventually, we met the family again for the tree lighting and then (after a lot of trouble corralling the group) went back to Mary and Leo's for hors de oeuvres - everyone had a very nice time and ate well - at around 2000, we drove back to the hotel and met up with everyone in the family room - most people watched football for a while and then started to depart for their rooms (tired) - I was in the room first but the girls were all there by 2230, when we went to bed]

Thanksgiving Trip - Day 3

[another good night in La Cantera Resort & Spa in San Antonio - the girls slept in until about 0900 - I read a book and went walking on the hotel property - we’d received a letter that allowed us to get a free beverage at the hotel coffee shop and I texted the kids so they’d know to get theirs - when I got back to the room (1030), the girls were getting ready - we all skipped breakfast (although Mollie ate leftover pancakes) - we watched a little bit of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade (JMU and Keller Marching Bands were involved) - before the kids were done getting ready, they got their free drink at the coffee shop - we then finished up and walked to Chuck’s room (staging area) - at 1215, we all walked to a place I’d found in the hotel ballroom area (with pretty recessed bells, ala San Antonio Mission) and took pictures - afterwards, we went for lunch at the Thanksgiving Feast - the kids and I ate a LOT and stayed for almost three hours - everyone enjoyed themselves tremendously - afterwards, the girls and I went back to the room and rested for an hour - Mollie got bored and went to visit with the family in Chuck’s room - meanwhile, the Twins took naps - Mollie started texting me constantly and asked me to come to be with her - at 1700, Brenna started studying and I went with Erin to Chuck’s - I found out that most of the kids wanted to dip their feet in the hot tub so I took all of them (minus Brenna) there for about 30 minutes - we had a nice conversation - by 1800, we rejoined the larger family and watched part of the NFL games that were ongoing - the kids ate dinner (leftovers) and started playing “Mexican Train” with their older cousins - Brenna joined us (but kept doing homework) by 1930 - we all had cheesecake and everyone was in good spirits - at 2030, I excused myself and went to my room to rest - Mollie returned and watched Movies for a while - Erin came by the room to tell me that her friend just learned that her grandfather died - Erin was thinking about going to the funeral in Roanoke and we talked about the logistics - Brenna continued studying and Erin went back to the family room, where she stayed late with our relatives - by 2300, everyone was back in the room and got into bed - I decided to let them all fall asleep before me so they might not be "distracted by my snoring" (it seemed to work) - I was asleep before 0015]

Thanksgiving Trip - Day 2

[the girls slept until 0745 - I teleworked for a few hours in the morning - at 0830, Mollie left with Kathy and Bonnie to explore the area - she ended up having breakfast (Sweet Fire Grill) with them - Brenna took a long time to wake up - the Twins and I ate granola bars that Erin had brought from home - from the restaurant, Mollie coordinated a trip to the La Cantera Mall (departure planned for 1000) - Brenna and Erin took a very long time to get ready... - Mollie returned from breakfast with leftovers - eventually, they all left for the Shops at La Cantera area and I did some more telework - Mollie called me a few times and eventually recommended that we meet up at a place Gabriel (Uber Driver) recommended - I took the hotel shuttle (1200) and met everyone at Palenque Grill for lunch (Mexican) - it was a very nice time and the food was great (finished at 1330) - the kids and I later walked back to catch the shuttle (1400) - Brenna didn’t feel well and wanted to take a nap - after I’d coordinated a later room cleanup time, Mollie, Erin and I met up with Mary and she drove us to the Rim shopping area - we dropped Erin and Mollie off at James Avery - Mary and I went to buy drinks at Total Wine & More (1505) - we all met up again later at Bass Pro Shops - Mollie and I had fun at the shooting gallery - I’d planned to meet up with one of my Navy friends but he ended up being too busy - we made one more stop at the Cheesecake Factory and I used a gift card to get a variety of slices for the “party room” (1530) - we then went back to the hotel and met up with the rest of our cousins (including Leo, Sean and Shannon) - Chuck was running late so it was pretty crowded in one of the smaller (private) rooms - I went back to our own room to check on Brenna and tried to help her with her headache (made her hydrate and try to fix per pillow situation) - Mollie also tried to find chewable headache medicine at the hotel (no luck) - after learning that Chuck had arrived, Mollie and I coordinated movement of items between the rooms and then I convinced Brenna to leave the room for a walk - we explored the hotel (pool, stores, restaurants, gym) and made a stop at the Spa to check on targeted massages (for Brenna’s neck) - she didn’t end up wanting one but said she had started to feel better - we met the entire extended family at Chuck’s room later (1745) and enjoyed some snacks while everyone else agonized over the dinner location - once everyone agreed to go to the Shops at La Cantera, we got rides to the restaurant (from Leo) - once there (1900), the kids said they wanted to eat at a different place than the group (PF Chang) so we walked a short distance to Luciano’s Pizzeria - we had a great dinner (cheese pizza, salads and cheesy bread) - we finished at 2000 and took the shuttle back to the hotel - Brenna said she didn’t feel well again so I encouraged her to stay in the room for more hydration, a bath, no social media and an early bed time - Mollie and Erin went back to Chuck’s room to enjoy the family visiting some more and I did a little more telework - by 2145, Mollie returned and watched TV with Brenna - I asked the girls to mute the volume and went to bed at 2230 - Erin had not returned when I woke up briefly at 2345 but she came in as I was getting a drink - just at that same moment, the hotel fire alarm went off and we had to evacuate the hotel - Erin told me she’d been having a nice time with our cousins but Mollie and Brenna were annoyed that she had not been answering them - after a short time outside, the “all clear” was sounded and we went back to the room - everyone tried to get back to sleep (tough) but I think everyone was settled before midnight]

Thanksgiving Trip - Day 1

[I worked in the city all morning - left at around 1230 and finished my packing at the apartment - Erin and Brenna picked me up at 1350 (after they made an ill-advised stop at Burger King for a late lunch) - we drove to Edison and I went inside to check Mollie out from school (she passed me and went to the car while I was in the school office) - we were on our way to the airport by 1405 - fortunately, we left early enough that the traffic hadn’t backed up to I-66 yet (it almost had) - on the way, we talked about the security process, the checked bag rules, using Uber to get around (no rental car) and where we’d get our food - we used the Access Road and arrived at Dulles by 1430 - we had to drive around for a while before we were able to park - this ultimately benefited us, though, and we were able to walk to the terminal - tried to complete the bag check process but had to wait a long time because there was a computer glitch (done at 1515) - when we went to Security, we found a relatively short line (canine search) and got through very quickly - we were at our gate by 1530 (after riding on a special shuttle to the United Terminal) - I bought the kids sandwiches from Dunkin Donuts (1615) to eat later - about 30 minutes before boarding, I figured out that our gate had changed and we moved to a new area - we were on the plane by 1715 but our takeoff was delayed - once we were in the air, we had a nice time talking with the young couple and their daughter (Vivian) in my row (the kids were all sitting together on the other side from me) - Erin was very nervous about flying and I reassured her throughout - Brenna did some studying and Mollie reveled in looking out the window (taking lots of pictures) - we ate dinner (sandwiches, fruit snacks) about halfway through the flight - the girls listened to pod casts and music and I researched brochures to prep for my trips to New Zealand and Spain - we arrived in San Antonio by 2015 (local time) and were off the plane very quickly - we retrieved our checked bag and walked to the ride share area - our Uber Driver (Gabriel) picked us up quickly and drove us to the Resort - he was Italian and made all kinds of recommendations for restaurants in the area (the kids were entertained) - we arrived at the hotel (La Cantera Resort) at around 2045 and learned that they had lost all water pressure - they offered to let us out of our reservation and go elsewhere - we immediately contacted Kathy to see what they planned to do and, once they confirmed we were staying, we checked into our room (we got a 50% discount) - afterwards, we got a ride to Grille 254 (Golf Club) and ate some appetizers with Bonnie and Kathy - we had a great time and rode back to the hotel with them on the shuttle (2245) - back in our room, we learned that the water pressure had returned - the girls watched some TV until around 2330, when we all went to bed]

Pearisburg, VA (USA)

As much as I have loved the AT hikes near Pearisburg, it was time to finish it up today. While waiting for Bob, I got breakfast at Hardees (0730) and gas at Clover Dew (0745). Bob met me again at 0800 near the Dairy Queen and we drove back to the same parking spot as yesterday (corner of Clendennin Road (VA-641) and Pocahontas FS Road. He then drove me back to the bridge over the New River (US-460) and I started NOBO on the re-routed trail section at 0815. It was foggy and cool when I started but I climbed very quickly until I was above the scud - the sun was shining gloriously as I climbed and there was no evidence of snow. The new trail was very nice - no rocks or roots. It seemed to parallel the property of the city landfill and there were some pungent odors! On the other side, I passed a series of fields with deer stands and I heard distant gunfire from time to time. When I reached the ridge, I started to get hot - and only had two layers to start - was very much enjoying the increasing temps! And then I started downhill towards my car and it got cooler again as I lost the sun. Just before I reached the road, I ran into Swiss Feet (Ryan), who had just (0945) started his climb from the place where I picked him up last night. The AT Thru Hiker purist in him forced him to go back to the last place he’d been... We chatted briefly and I wished him luck as he headed towards the Smokies. Minutes later, I was at my car. Mystery solved: the section was 3.5 miles, meaning the difference from VA-635 to the New River was about 19 miles - almost a mile longer than the 2014 trail guide mileage. Since I’m using that as my reference, I only counted 2.8 miles for the leg. Immediately drove east, headed for an unfinished section near Newport. It took me almost an hour to reach the trailhead on (gravel) VA-601 - I had to dodge fallen trees and precarious muddy tracks on the cliff side... There was actually a ton of ice on the ridge - startling after my earlier hike! As I was leaving my car (1045, NOBO), a young couple arrived and took the only other parking spot. I didn’t wear my backpack and just brought water and snacks. Layered up again and headed up a steep (and icy!) hill. After about three quarters of a mile, I reached a nice plateau. It was still icy but I wasn’t worried about falling for awhile. Encountered a white tailed deer and a father/son duo (with their dog) as I headed towards my turnaround point, Kelly Knob. I’d been in the area at dusk one day so had not seen the view. It was crisp and clear and I could see for miles. The lookout was a series of tall boulders, with nearly three feet between each one. With all the ice and the possibility of a very big fall in my mind, I only crossed one of the gaps to take some pictures. Was relieved when I was back on the access trail again (whew!). Headed back towards me car and made great time! After a long Fall with the sounds of fallen leaves to keep time with my steps, it was strange to hear the harsh sound of boots on shattered icicles. Passed a trio of day hikers with their puppies and found a packed parking area when I reached the car again (1230). My pedometer said I’d covered nearly eight miles for the day and I felt really good after my weekend of hiking in the snow. Dreading the drive home (because of the recent major traffic jams I'd seen each weekend this Fall), I took VA-601 to US-460. Just after I got on I-81, I found myself in a traffic jam (in Christiansburg). Stuck with the interstate and eventually made it to (near) Salem and found another back-up. Reacted by getting off the highway (used US-11) and drove all the way through Roanoke. Thinking the worst was over, I got back back on I-81 near Daleville and then hit another traffic jam near Lexington. Grrr... Finally had enough - got off on US-60 and drove east (through mountains). Had hoped to get on Blue Ridge Parkway (it was on the way) but there were trees down on the entrance ramp. Got on US-29 and drove all the way to Warrenton and Gainesville. Took US-15 to I-66, where I got a gas fillup at Sheetz in Haymarket (1745). Used I-66 and I-495 to get back to Alexandria. Stopped at Giant to pick up food for my company Thanksgiving Pot Luck (done at 1835) and was at my house before 1900. The only downer of the whole day was the drive back: am VERY happy that I don’t have to use this route again if I don’t want to... It was a great weekend! AT Today = 4.60 miles / G.T. AT = 1247.52 miles

Pearisburg, VA (USA)

What a day! I’d been waiting to hike a long section on the AT north of Pearisburg for several years - it was simply too long for my normal out and back strategy. There was also a major reroute of the trail in the area and I had a lot of trouble finding credible information about the mileage and terrain changes. I probably would have waited a few more years to hike the section but my friend Bob (local farmer) offered me a shuttle between two trailheads this weekend - so I seized the opportunity! We met in town at 0800 and drove over to the new trailhead on VA-641 that I’d read about online. Then Bob took me to where the AT came close to VA-635. I started SOBO at 0900, expecting not to see my car again for as many as 17 miles. In the first mile, I encountered three different hunters who were brazenly seeking prey on the trail itself. It’s funny, though: I never saw a single deer all day. I climbed up to the ridge-line, which also served as the border of West Virginia and Virginia - was hiking north for a few miles before heading “south” as I reached the intersection of the Allegheny Trail. The snow, which had been a thin vernier on the ground to that point, suddenly became a thick coat of white (over an even thicker ice layer) on every tree and bush. Some of them were weighed down so heavily that the trail was blocked. The forecast said the temps would reach 55 degrees but the winter wonderland I’d found was much colder - was very glad to have work three layers! I was in the fog for a few hours and wondered if the sun would ever appear. Didn’t see anyone up in the clouds but I noticed some footprints (going in the other direction), along with canine prints (going my way). At around noon, I finally started to see beyond the hundred yard bubble I was in - I could see pretty farms in both states. Then the heat of the sun started to loosen the ice from the tree tops - end result: “hail”! This second phase of my hike was a bit unpleasant, as I was soon drenched and started to feel cold. I encountered two Flip Flop Thru hikers going north - one was covered with a strange looking orange trash bag but was wearing tennis shoes and the other was wearing shorts (!!!). Caught a bit of their hiking vibe and pressed on. Passed some paper taped to trees on one of the balds - figured it must be related to the controversial Mountain Valley Pipeline that had been in the news last spring... After I’d reached what I thought was the halfway point (9ish miles), I suddenly realized another (very young) hiker was following me! I let him pass but kept up pace enough to talk to him (“Swiss Feet”, Ryan) for the next several miles. He told me he’d been having terrible nights - near hypothermic - and was dying for a warm night in Pearisburg, even if it required a 30+ mile day. After hearing this, I offered him a ride. But shortly after that, we arrived at the Rice Field Shelter (along with beautiful, sunny views on the bald). Ryan decided to stop for a rest but I kept going (he said he would catch up). Right afterwards, the re-routed trail section started - I could see the Celanese Plant just below me but the trail doubled back to the east, directly under the Shelter! From there, it was a frustrating series of switchbacks, greatly extending the trail mileage. There were almost no white blazes and several confusing trail forks. On the plus side, there was no snow and the trail surface was smooth and well designed. Was very surprised to find my car earlier then I’d expected (pedometer must not have worked correctly). Had thought about continuing to US-460 but still didn’t really know how far it was. Decided to call it a day at 1530. Waited for Ryan for a little while and soon heard loud shouting from the hillside. I learned later that he had found another ride and didn’t want me to wait - but when he reached my car and explained what happened, I gave him a ride anyway. Took him to the Angels Rest Hostel and wished him well - trail magic karma balanced out well! After I was done hiking, I went back to the Holiday Lodge and checked in (1655). Ate leftover pizza in the room and read my book ("On Trails"). Before going to sleep, I texted Bob to thank him and he offered to give me another ride in the morning! So I’ll try to finish the section when the sun comes up. AT Today = 15.30 miles / Grand Total AT = 1242.92 miles

Pearisburg, VA (USA)

[left my house at 1300 (early enough and had great weather) - took I-495 and I-66 to I-81 - snow everywhere - started to get a lot of traffic north of Harrisonburg - gas fillup at Exxon there (1510) - used US-11 to get closer to Staunton - eventually came to a complete standstill near Daleville - got off at US-220 and used Catawba Road to get around to VA-311 - then drove to New Castle and VA-42 - continued to US-460 and drove into Pearisburg at around 1900 - no hiking possible - checked into the Holiday Lodge at 1910 - walked around near hotel (to get my steps for the day) and ended up stopping for dinner at Pizza Plus (done at 2055) - they had a special "any pizza for $10" deal and I got a meat lovers supreme, along with a trip to the salad bar - enjoyed talking to the people who worked there]

Washington, DC (USA)

[bus and Van Dorn - work - walked to Navy Yard (1645) - met Greta for dinner at Gordon Biersch (until 1900) - she drove me (free Valet parking) to Arena Stage - we met up with people from work and had some cocktails - at 2000, "Anything Goes" opening night began (it was excellent) - we finished at 2300 - Greta drove me home - bed very late]

Arlington, VA (USA)

[work - Metro to Pentagon City - walked around in Fashion Center Mall (for exercise) - then went to happy hour with Stephanie at Sine (finished at 2020) - Metro home]

Washington, DC (USA)

[dropped Mollie off at school - grocery shopping - drove into DC (via I-395) and had special Veterans Day lunch at Gordon Biersch (1100) - then took a walk along the Anacostia Riverwalk Trail (near Navy Yard) - got back in my car and headed home (via South Capitol Street and I-295)]

Triangle, VA (USA)

[Mollie was studying - went to get Veterans Day lunch at Missing BBQ (Hilltop) and then drove (via US-1 and I-95) to Prince William Forest Park (fee free day) - walked near Carter's Pond and then about three miles (and back) on the South Valley Trail - used VA-619 and back roads to get to VA-234 (Dumfries Road) and then took Headley Road and Dale Boulevard to Sheetz, where I got a free half sub and drink for Mollie - drove north on Ridgefield Road and then took Prince William Parkway and Old Bridge Road back to I-95 - all the way to Van Dorn Street (home by 1445)]

Mason Neck, VA (USA)

[Mollie was studying - at around 1100, drove over to Reza's house on Mason Neck to check on my kayak (it was fine) and then parked at the NWR - walked in both directions between Mason Neck State Park and Gunston Road - got lots of exercise and then headed back to the apartment (around 1400)]

Arlington, VA (USA)

[work - took Metro to Pentagon City - met Kelly for happy hour at Chevys - stayed until 1830 - then Metro home]

Washington, DC (USA)

[voted at 0600 - work - solo HH at Hill Country BBQ (free Shiner and a shot for voting sticker) - finished at around 1730 - Metro/car home]

Arlington, VA (USA)

[work - solo HH at Sine (after walk at Fashion Center Mall) - finished at 1730 - Metro/car home]

Shady Valley, TN (USA)

Gotta love the time-change - got an extra hour of sleep! Was on the road by "0600" but got hung up getting breakfast: McDonalds had trouble with my order, paying and the type of food. The end result, though, was that I got some upgrades on my McMuffins and free hash browns - I guess that's good... When leaving town, I debated which direction to drive (too far south and east and I'd have to take a different way home). Initially, I started to drive south on US-19E (to do a section near there) but realized that I'd be better off heading back north (so I could do more distance in VA). Decided to return to the AT trailhead on TN-91 (about 20 miles from Elizabethton) to close up a section gap that I'd left since I first hiked in the area in 2014. The weather was 100% different from the previous day - sunny, cool (but not cold) and much dryer hiking surface. With such a dramatic environmental difference, I only wore two layers (although I brought a third) and headed NOBO at 0715. Had to cross a huge field - full of cows - and had some interesting encounters with horned creatures before I reached the brightly colored tree line. I started a good climb as I got deeper in the forest, following an old road bed. It was much less rocky but there were still muddy areas. I ran into four SOBO Thru hikers (two solos) before I reached the mid-point, Double Springs Shelter - otherwise I was alone. They other hikers talked about how cold they had been overnight and that they were finding that the winter weather made it harder to keep the slower pace they wanted to hike. As I topped the ridge (~4.5K'), the trail crossed to the other side, where I was immediately blasted by strong, chilly winds. Brrrr! I was treated to views into Shady Valley and deeper into Tennessee on the west side - spectacular! The turnaround point was a challenge because I used to (2014, no AT Guide Book) make decisions about when to backtrack based on distance I'd hiked from the road. So my notes for this area said "1.5 miles south of US-421" and didn't note a landmark. Fortunately, I had cell signal for once and was able to gauge my distance from the pavement - the deja vu feelings about the trail surroundings (top of Locust Knob, Campsite) were present but I liked having an "objective" metric. Started back towards my car and found myself alone all the way back to the big pasture. At that point, though, everyone must have figured out that the weather was great for a day hike and I passed 10 people (including a cute toddler on his dad's back) in the last mile. Finished the section at 1115, after 10 miles (feeling great), and immediately got on the road to reposition for part two! After hiking the section in Tennessee, I drove north on TN-133 to Damascus. In my explorations yesterday, I'd located a few places where the AT crossed the "highway" east of town but had been unable to find where it crossed the Virginia Creeper Trail (cinder railroad bed, now a bike path). Got back on US-58 and navigated the stunning number of daunting switchbacks as I drove east. Fortunately, I had a lot of bike shuttle vans to follow and observe. Also, I was able to utilize my awesome Forest Service sectional map to narrow down the search and find a way to carve up the long section I've still got between Damascus and Whitetop Mountain. Got off the highway at both VA-859 (found Creeper Trail but not AT) and VA-728 (found Luther Hassinger Memorial Bridge, which both trails used to cross Whitetop Laurel Creek). At the latter location, I found a recreation area but there was no official trail up to the bridge - over 100 feet above the parking lot. Luckily, I saw some bikers scrambling down a steep embankment and managed to climb up to the trail above (1245). From there, I headed south across the river (barely missed being hit by a LOT of bikers) and located the AT. On this leg, I didn't carry a backpack (or any gear, for that matter). I find that it is nice to walk without the body strain sometimes and this section validated that idea again. From the bike trail, the AT plunged into the woods and then climbed up again steeply (but with some helpful switchbacks). I'd decided to try to reach the Lost Mountain Shelter, to set up my next hike with a definitive landmark. Passed a young couple out for a day hike but didn't see anyone else until I reached the shelter. There was a SOBO Thru hiker there - not chatty, all business. So I arrived, took pictures and headed back towards my car. Within a few minutes, he was following close behind. Unencumbered by a backpack and feeling fresh on the downhill return, I was able to stay in front of him for a mile or so - then he blew by me without any words. After that, I didn't try to "race" him... Finished up at 1430 after four miles (includes the backtrack). Headed for home, I drove east on US-58 and VA-603 until reaching VA-16. Got back to I-81 and headed north. It was pretty smooth sailing until I got to about 10 miles south of Salem (another traffic jam) - I hate I-81!!!! After getting off and back on I-81 a few times (to avoid completely stopped traffic), decided to get gas (1625) in Salem (Gobble Stop). Then took VA-419 and back roads west of I-581 to get on VA-117. Avoided the worst traffic and then got on US-11 until reaching Daleville. Made my way back on I-81. Talked with Erin several times on the way (about the delay) - it was basically bumper to bumper all the way to I-64(E). After that, I made better time. I arrived in Harrisonburg at 1855 and stopped at the Cracker Barrel for dinner. Erin joined me and we talked for about an hour (finished at 2015). After saying goodbye to her, I headed north from there on I-81 (there a little traffic even that late) and I-66 (much better). Narrowly avoided some nasty construction near Fairfax and arrived at my apartment by 2200 - whew! Loving the longer hikes, cooler weather, challenging terrain and the feeling that I'm only 50 miles away from finishing the nearly 600 miles of AT in Virginia! The biggest downside to my AT plans is that the distance of these zones from my house - six to seven hours of driving (as much as I like the open road) is physically draining. I realize this can't always be a "leisurely stroll" but have decided I need to focus more on Shuttle Rides to avoid re-treading distance when I have limited time. Regardless, I'm jazzed up and can't wait to get out on the trail for more! AT Today = 7.00 miles / G.T. AT = 1227.62 miles

Damascus, VA (USA)

My planned extra day of hiking was a bust yesterday (major traffic jams, steady rain) but the end result was that I was positioned a few miles away from the hiking zone this morning! After getting recommendations from several active friends, I decided to start using Emergen-C before my hikes (today was the first day). After using I-81 for a little while, I stopped for breakfast at McDonalds (0630) and for a gas fillup at Shell in Marion (0640) and continued on to VA-16 to the south. I was able arrive at the AT trailhead on VA-603 by 0715 (the sun was just peaking over the eastern ridges). With a thick frost layer on all the cars in the parking lot (full), I decided to layer up (3) before I headed SOBO. The frost became snow and it just kept getting deeper as I climbed up Pine Mountain. I soon came across tent campers and, by the time I reached the Old Orchard Shelter, I’d seen close to 10 people. Everyone I talked to was surprised at the snow and a few admitted they weren’t prepared. This theme continued throughout the day - I guess the campers’ weekend adventure plans didn’t include the pretty white layer over everything... I, on the other hand, loved it! Just over 30 days ago, I was sweating my @$$ off on the AT but today I felt pretty comfortable - perspiration was not an issue. I was very glad to have my new boots and thick skiing gloves. I only actually saw one hiker on the trail before I reached the ridge (5K’) but by the time I reached my turnaround point, I’d probably seen over 50 people. I think I passed at least 25 (including two hunters with rifles) going back to the car too! It was not a pleasant day but everyone was out - most were hiking a counterclockwise circuit that took them around the outside of Grayson Highlands State Park. Almost all of the other hikers were men - I only noticed two groups of ladies (near where the wild ponies were grazing). When I reached The Scales (holding yard for horses and staging area for riders), I found myself in a clearing with wide open balds in nearly every direction. The wind up there was COLD. I realized I’d sprung some kind of leak in my backpack and had the sensation of water freezing to my legs as it dripped - brrrrr! Dreaded the return trip as the icy wind was definitely at my back - started scheming for a different trail on the backtrack... Biggest treat of the day: saw four groups of wild ponies, all close to the trail and unafraid! As I approached the SP boundary, I started to encounter huge marshy, muddy areas - new boots (and lower 10 inches of pants legs) drenched. Also discovered that my recorded turnaround point was wrong - the error in location (map/guide to reality) was at least a mile. The terrain wasn’t too difficult so I hiked the section I’d claimed I finished previously. The end result, though, was that my outbound leg was 8.5 miles. I was feeling good, though, and turned around at the southern SP boundary with my mind convinced that I could get back without difficulty. It was mind over matter: ~2200 miles breaks up into 400+ hikeable sections and so does 8.5 miles. Cut off about two miles on the return leg by using the Chestnut Trail (wet, rocky riverbed!) to Scales. After that, I made good progress towards the car. Of course, meeting 75 unique humans on the trail required a lot of socializing! Everyone’s life story, motivation to hike and weekend plans were great to hear. Just before I was done (3:00, after 15.5 miles), the sun came out and started melting the snow - but it didn’t make much of a dent in the high ridge-lines, still snowy white from my vantage point on the road. At the lower levels, though, the colors of the leaves were revealed to be spectacular! Explored US-58 east of Damascus (planning for the roughly 20 miles I’ve got left there). Visited with Crazy Larry but his hostel was full. Instead, headed (used TN-91) to Elizabethton (TN), where I was able to check into the Travelers Inn by 1715. Ate dinner (again) at Amigo Mexican Restaurant (finished at 1930) and later watched football and movies. It was the night of the Fall time change (ugh) so knew that would affect the following morning. Excited for more AT tomorrow! AT Today = 7.50 miles / Grand Total AT = 1220.62 miles

Rural Retreat, VA (USA)

[driving to hiking zone - telework until 1300 - drove west and south via I-495, I-66 and I-81 - in addition to the normal rush hour traffic on the way, I-81 seemed to be worse than normal - bumper to bumper all the way to Harrisonburg - then traffic jams started - used Waze to find out how bad it was and decided to get off the Interstate - used VA-252 (along with several farm roads) to get through Staunton and south of the I-64 merge (ended up on US-11) - eventually got back on I-81 and it seemed like smooth sailing until it started to pour - had planned to hike near Blacksburg but gave up and continued south - drove until around 1800 and stopped in Rural Retreat again (Relax Inn) for the night]