Date: 2008-05-10
From: 10 Days After

To: Elk Park NC
Miles today: 15.2

Hoping for a sunny start to the day, it was raining off and on and a cloud was just sitting in camp.While fixing breakfast, I thought I needed to be more creative than just doing oatmeal? I know bisquits and sausage gravy is out of the question, but I can do better.As the day progressed, I was able to shed my rain suit and the sky became clear.The trail consisted of open ridges and balds with spectacular views. Climbing was a pleasure because with every step you could see for miles. Did I mention how great the views were? I have to mention it twice, they were that good.Along the way we detoured to check out the "Over Mountain Shelter" It is a large red barn that could house more people than some of the little towns I have seen. The views were stunning from here as well. We learned while Sprite was speaking with a relative on her cell phone, that 2 hikers were shot not far from here. Apparently, a man be-friended them, shared dinner with them, then came back and shot them? Life has been so amazingly good out here, it was a reminder that we still are not far enough away from the vermin back in the world. This was even more disturnbing, as since I have been out here, I have witnessed the very best in selfless, human kindness. I wasn't sure it still existed? My thoughts go out to their families.Later in the day, I ran into "Peach & Fuzz" again. They seem to be a fun couple. They had mentioned their reservations tonight at the "Mountain Harbor B&B". They also mentioned something about a steak house that was within a few miles as well. STEAK!, I have been craving a steak since I have been out here. Hmmm....This is worth some consideration? I could tell Sprite & Freckles were thinking about it as well?We met some people out for the day on Hump Mountain. We stood and spoke with them. The steak house came up in conversation, "Rabbit" whom has hiked large sections of the AT offerred to drive us once we all reached US 19. "Just when you need it, there it is"! After another 5 miles, we arrived at the base of the mountain. Crossing a creek over a small foot bridge we came upon Apple House Shelter. Sitting inside were several cans of coke that had been left as trail magic from the owners of the B&B. I can't tell you how good that tasted!Knowing we had some time before Rabbit arrived, we spread out and found our own spots to wash in, along the creek. I should clarify that soap does not enter the creek. Wetting down first, then lather & rinse well away from the water source.Now having a trail bath, hair combed and town shirt on, we waited to get a ride.Rabbit had a small car, Our gear & selves just fit, barely.AHHH,mmmmm New York Strip grilled to perfection. It wasn't to difficult in deciding to stay at the hostel the B&B offered as well. A quick call and the owner Terry, picked us up. The hostel was a section of their barn converted into a comfortable cozy cabin with a loft, bathroom, bedroom and large living area. I could easily have lived in something like this. An added bonus was having "John & Kelly" here tonight. I haven't seen them since the Smokys. A new face to night is "Bigglesworth".