Hampton, TN (USA)

Got a late start because I slept so well! After breakfast at my hotel, I drove south on US-19E and US-321 to Hampton and then took Dennis Cove Road to the AT trailhead. Had actually been procrastinating on this section because of the huge climb to the top of Pond Mountain but decided “today is the day” since it was close to town and there was no snow. Temps were in the low 30s again but the sun was shining so started with two (light) layers - headed NOBO at 0930. The initial part of the hike was pretty easy - the trail followed an old roadbed that paralleled the Doe River. After crossing it once, I found myself in another world: it looked like a stone quarry! There were rocks everywhere - I hadn’t seen this many since Lehigh Gap (PA). Then the trail reached a turning point that took it down into a steep ravine below. The man-made rock stairwell was treacherous and there were no hand-holds. At the bottom, though, was spectacular Laurel Falls. My pictures don’t do it justice - I was very impressed. Continued on the AT until it reached a huge cliff (rock face) and I realized the trail went out on a ledge along the restless waters - can’t imagine navigating it with a huge backpack... Encountered the first people of the day (young couple with dog) at the exact place where there was no room to pass. But we managed to get by eventually (along with a helpful exchange of trail Intel). The trail then headed back up onto the ridge I’d left to see the waterfall - right before heading back down to the river again (one of the many PUDs in this section). On top of that, I crossed the Doe a few more times. When I reached the Laurel Falls Access Trail (short cut to Hampton), the trail took a decidedly dramatic upward turn. For the next several miles, I climbed from the level of the town to the top of multi-ridge Pond Mountain. Felt good in the climb because there were many switchbacks and the sun warmed me up a lot. The trail switched from one side of the mountain along the way and I got to experience two environments (water rushing sounds versus town sounds). From the “top” (it seemed like I would never reach it because every level off was followed by another climb), I could see Hampton, remote mountain peaks and Watauga Lake. One thing I noticed, though, was that I only got these views because the trees in the way were bare - would be totally different in the Summer.. Turned around at Pond Flats - I’d noted (from my visit in 2017, from the other direction) that it was supposed to be “at a campsite with crossed trees” but I only found the former... My pedometer also registered a longer distance than I’d expected (reroute since 2014?). Started back immediately and made good time to the Doe River. Encountered a solo section hiker who was just starting his climb and then a family with their dog as I crossed the river. After that, it got REALLY crowded - so many people were out for a stroll since the temps had reached the mid 40s. Used the High Water (blue blazed bypass) Trail to get back - probably saved 0.3 miles and avoided at least one PUD. It didn’t get me away from people, though... The last folks I met had three dogs (all off leash) and the furry fellas followed me (ignoring their slower owners) for almost a mile. One was apparently afraid of me and kept barking and running away as I walked - when I took a break on a side trail, he bolted past me to find safety. Reached my car at 1415 after around 11 miles. Explored the areas, findings several (closed) hostels - hoping they’ll help me with shuttles later this Spring. Spent the afternoon at the hotel and then went to Chick-fil-A (not very crowded for once!) for dinner (1810). Watched TV and read before going to bed at 2200. Great day! AT Today = 5.20 miles / G.T. AT = 1339.32 miles