I was awake very early again (dozed until 0530). When I got outside, I was glad to see that the rain held off. I left Newport quite early - it was dark and only Hardees was open (got breakfast to go at 0615). To reach the AT Trailhead, I followed the same route I used yesterday afternoon - I was hiking (SOBO) from Lemon Gap (TN/NC border) by 0730. The temps were already in the 50s (!!) and the sun was coming up over the hills so I was very happy to have a chance to get going early. Started passing NOBO Thrus right away - I ultimately counted 11 by the end of the section. Talked to three of them (to get a flavor of the “Bubble”. “Link”, “Smile” and “Doogie” were all in the Hiker Class of ‘21 and had just finished the Smokies in the best possible weather (this probably explained why they were all so smiley). They’d begun from Springer on February 25 and had met the same kinds of people I have been during the last week: a combination of 2020 “Do Overs”, 2021s and LASHers. Since no one apparently will get credit for their hike from the ATC this or last year, the trail was maintaining a “Rebel” type feel - since I hike all year, I definitely support the use of the AT for exercise, mental well-being and outdoor solitude (“closed” or not). I caught up to the young backpacking couple I’d seen the day before - they didn’t seem to be in any hurry at all (wink wink)... After about four miles of pretty lazy climbing, with many creek crossings, I arrived at the start of a rather steep ascent to the main event: Max Patch! After I got to the huge, open, grassy bald, I was treated to awesome views of mountains in all directions. I could also see the incoming rain (it was falling on the Smokies). The wind was pretty strong (had to hold onto my hat) but that didn’t deter a young couple (apparently recently engaged) from trying to get some portraits made. I saw a few people near tents but I’m glad I didn’t camp on the exposed hill... As usual, the AT almost immediately began a descent from the Max Patch summit. At least the wind died down. I arrived at NC-1182 (my turnaround point) much earlier than I expected (pedometer screwed up again). Was going to hike back the way I’d come but my Google Maps told me it was less than four miles on the gravel road to my car. So, of course, I went that way. The road grade was almost completely downhill and meandered through areas where there were seasonal cabins - they looked like nice places to escape the hot summer sun. A car stopped to ask if I needed help and the two guys inside told me they were doing a two car shuttle for the same route (I was a bit envious). Made it to my car again (after almost 10 miles) by 1130 - not a bad hike! I decided to drive back to the parking area for Max Patch - encountered lots of cars on the way and the lot was packed. Very glad to have gotten several days in the woods without crowds and even happier that I didn’t get drenched with rain on any of them. From the top of the mountains, I made several calls (Mollie had a lot of news about her visit) and a hotel reservation in Maggie Valley. I then used NC-1182 and Harmon Den Road to get to I-40 - on the way, I found potential dirt roads where I might be able to access the AT. I drove south/east and got off the Interstate at US-276. From there, I continued towards Maggie Valley - I had to get on US-19 to reach my hotel (Quality Inn) and checked in by 1330. I ate dinner and then relaxed/rested in my room. Also took care of some work on my computer, texted with my dad, read books, watched some TV and then some movies on my phone. I went to sleep by 2145. Very relaxing afternoon/evening - unfortunately, I have to head back north tomorrow... AT Today = 6.0 miles / G.T. AT = 1796.0 miles / AT Left = 389.3 miles
