Sitting in Gatlinburg for a second night. Im extremely anxious to get back on the trail but waiting because the weather forecast temps possibly in the teens. I had no problem with the last night I had in the 30's (except getting out of bed) but I think I'll freeze my face off if the temps go below 20. I got off the trail at Cligmans Dome, the highest point on the AT, a huge landmark. The hike up the 6,600+ peak was amazing, some of the best miles so far. I took my time to really enjoy the hike. The views were spectacular as the trail wined up the ridge through evergreens then open patches of grass. The smell of the Christmas trees was the one scent more powerful then myself.

A few days ago it was hard getting back in the swing of things after having my dad to hike with and then taking 2 zero days with Christina Lima who drove up to see me. The zero days that I take off hiking are excellent! Got to do some white water rafting, have some fun around town, and just relax. On the down side of one of my days off the trail I happened to get stung by a wasp. Out of alllll the flying stinging things that have flown by me on the trail its the one thats hiding inside my pack indoors that stings me. That was my first bee sting ever and I was kinda anticipating it on this trip. Wasn't bad at all but pretty nervous for the possibility of another as I hear thats when reactions occur. I have a epi on deck just incase.

Hitch hiking into gatlinburg was kinda hard. I think the longer my beard gets the harder it will be. Planning on writing a post on hitch hiking soon, lots to talk about there. I'll tell you right now though I've always felt fine with it.


Until next time....