Date: 2003-06-11
From: Max Patch Summit

To: Deer Park Mountain Shelter
Miles today: 16.6
Weather: overcast clouds

Another good day. We came 16.6 miles from Max Patch Bald to Deer Park Mountain Shelter, about 3.2 miles south of Hot Springs, North Carolina. Last night was the first time in my new tent, a 2-4-2 from Wanderlust in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. It did very well in the windswept heights of Max Patch. There was little to no rain. I awoke in the dim pre-dawn light so Al and I could get an early start for the long trip here. Max Patch is beautiful in the early morning, with good views to many ridges in all directions and a different look than the evening light. There were lots of tents spread out across the open summit, and we were the first to get up and the first to leave. We were at Roaring Fork Shelter by 9:00 (5.2 miles), climbed Walnut Mountain, and had lunch at Big Rock Spring, about 10.5 miles by noon. Bluff Mountain was a formidable obstacle, both up and down, but we were both strong today. The last significant climb was Lamb Knob. I started to run out of gas by mid afternoon, and pushed myself forward by sheer willpower and reliance on God¢s strength. I arrived about 4:00. Whew! I ran into several hikers today, but still had plenty of time to myself. Al and I meet regularly for snacks and meals but rarely hike right together for very long. Three school teachers from Kentucky came to this shelter about an hour after us but decided to continue on to Hot Springs. I was relieved. This shelter would hold five easily, but I like the extra space. So for now at least it is just the two of us. There were many fine views today from high perches along the way. There were lots of scenic places along the trail crossing very steep side hills where I could look above and below a long distance. Some very big old trees too. I have seen little wildlife on this trip ¢ only one pencil-sized snake, no (real) bears. As soon as I mention this I will probably start to see them more than I want! Right now I plan to go to Hot Springs early tomorrow, get a place to stay (hostel?), do laundry, shower, etc, and spend the night. I will probably take a zero day the next day (Friday), and leave for Erwin TN on Saturday ¢ for the last six days of the trip. I have food in a drop box at Bluff Mountain Outfitters in Hot Springs. I also plan to mail home a few gear items I¢m not using, plus some film, etc. After the rest, I will load up six days food for the last leg. That translates into a HEAVY pack until I use some of the food. I am enjoying the hike, and more so now that I¢m past the Smokies and have had at least a little time without heavy rain. I have plenty of time to think about my life, my family, plans, and my relationship with God. That¢s one of the big reasons I like to come out here ¢ time to think. It¢s about 6:45 and I will have a time reading the Bible and then some more of ¢The Pearl¢. The evening is settling in and the woods are getting quiet. This shelter feels very remote. It is very old, small and dark, but a dry place from the rain. We had a short shower a while ago, and it likely will rain overnight. I am happy with the way it¢s going. Great hike! Goodnight Sweetheart. dp