Date: 2005-05-20
From: Campsite before Audie Murphy Monument

To: Campsite before Catawba, VA
Miles today: 16.4

Bug and I started out the day climbing, but it soon levelled out to a day of ridge-walking. We saw our first Rhododendrons in bloom today, and oh, what a sight!!! I can only imagine what it will look like in a few weeks! Huge clusters of bright pink flowers, and a strong sweet scent filled the air as we hiked. We also spotted droves of pink lady slippers in bloom! So, even though they are rare, I guess conditions are right for them here in Virginia. We stopped many times during the day to take pictures.Bug and I decided to bypass Pickles Gap shelter, as it was 1/3 mile off the trail. It did look like it was situated in a nice setting though...there were lots of trees surrounding an open meadow in the valley below.We have experienced incredible views today, but if anyone tells you that Virginia is flat or easy to hike...I'm here to set the record straight....IT'S NOT!!! Dragon's Tooth took what seemed forever to climb. The downside to Bug's new watch is that with the altimeter, we see exactly when we are not making progress. For example, heading up Dragon's Tooth today, we needed to reach an altitude of 3,020' but started out at around 1900'. We climbed for what seemed like forever and had only reached 2700', then we would begin to descend again, only to have to climb further.Aside from that, Dragon's Tooth was so much fun! We had been told by another hiker that some people seriously consider ending their hike right then and there because of its difficulty. I won't lie and say that it was easy, but I certainly wouldn't quit my hike over it! For a NOBO, Dragon's Tooth is a very steep rock scramble going downhill. I prayed and prayed that the rain would hold off long enough for us to pass, and it did. Wet rocks are not fun, and could end someone's hike very quickly if not careful. With each step, you have to analyze where to place your feet and where to grab hold of as you climb. Some areas were so steep and high between rocks that the trail developers added iron handholds to grab on to. Very fun, but you must be patient when hiking this area of trail. Shortly after we descended Dragon's Tooth, we saw two young guys come hoofing it up the mountain. They told us they had intentions of running up this mountain. Bug and I are in the best shape of our lives, and we wouldn't dare attempt that! We admired their gusto, but these kids were far from being in tip-top shape. So we quickly informed them that it was a mountain best tackled slowly and with precision. I have been told that this mountain gives us a good picture of what New Hampshire will be like.We were pretty much worn out from that little jaunt, so we were glad when the trail eased into rolling hills again. As we came down into Lost Spectacles gap, we were rewarded for our hard work with a lovely glade of rhododendrons, tons and tons, all in bloom. It was here that we met the Garland 5. Upon first meeting them, we assumed they were a family out for a weekend camping trip, but as it turns out they are a family of 5 headed towards Maine. Now, people give us credit for attempting a thru-hike as a couple and spending time together 24/7, but I really must give this family kudos!After talking with them for a few minutes, we headed on our way. At this point we still had grand ambitions of making it to Catawba, VA by 6pm for the family-style, AYCE HomePlace restaurant. This a restaurant that is reknowned in Central VA for being THE place to go for good food.As we passed beautiful trail through Rawies Rest with rock outcroppings, blooming rhododendrons galore, great views and blue skies, I thanked God for allowing me the privelage of experiencing this!It was also at this point that we realized we wouldn't make it in time to reach the AYCE in Catawba. After crossing the trail at VA 624, we gathered water to cook with and had a Lipton meal of Asian noodles.We decided to hike for about 3 more miles and camp atop the mountain just outside of town. There were streams to cross, and pastures to walk. We did, and if I haven't already said this, Virginia is gorgeous!Once we reached the ridge, there was a perfect campsite waiting for us just 3 miles from Catawba. A level, soft ground spot for the tent and a great little fire ring made up the area.Since it was fairly early when we arrived, we thought it would be a great night for a fire. While Bug made the fire, I set up house and hung the bear bag. It was nice to sit and enjoy the warmth of the fire, because the weather has started to cool. I tried to dry my socks, but the liners melted completely and my Smartwools got a bit singed.The fire is dying down, and we are going to jump in our sleeping bags before losing body heat. Take care...