Date: 2015-04-11
From: ÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂold Spring Shelter, NC

To: Nantahala Outdoor Center, NC
Miles today: 11.7
Weather: broken clouds

This morning began shortly after 6:30am when the rustling sounds of Jeopardy in his tent nearby finally encouraged me to get moving. The night was calm and weather-free, but it did drop into the 40's causing me to cocoon myself into my mummy sleeping bag which worked nicely. Climbing out of your sleeping bag on a cold morning might be more difficult than the actual hiking part, or at least I wish it were. I enjoyed a nice sunrise with Moosehead, waited for he and General Burnsides to pack up, shared my plans with Rock Boat, and was off headed for the NOC - just over 11.5 miles away and over 3,000 vertical feet below.The 3 of us had the trail to ourselves most of the day, passing place names such as Copper Ridge Bald, Tellico Gap, Wesser Bald, and The Jumpoff. At Wesser Bald we met up with Jeopardy and a few others from last night's camp. A simple wooden/metal firetower stands at the summit and provided what has been the most awesome views so far. I don't exaggerate when I say we stand in awe at scenic views, especially at one like this. Being able to see where you came from, where you're going, and everything in between and far beyond is simply breathtaking. I encourage everyone that reaches a point like this in their lives, even if it's not physically standing on a mountaintop, to take pride in your accomplishments and use it as encouragement to continue on. I'll say it again, and many more times for as long as this journey will have me, it's the small things. The few of us that began the trail early enjoyed the views, the warmth of the sun, and good convo as we did what we do best - eat. Lunches vary from hiker to hiker, but usually consist of things you wouldn't think is good together. However, on the trail, no such thing exists; everything can compliment everything. I kept it tame with pb&j on tortillas, a pop tart, a granola bar, and some Gatorade gummies. Moosehead had pb&j on tortillas as well, but with the added bonus of sprinkled-in granola. General Burnsides had a combination consisting of pb&j, tuna, and pepperoni. As long as food isn't short (so far it hasn't been issue), hikers are more than willing to share food products with one another - anything with additional calories. After lunch and bellies full, we continued onward which would be mainly downhill for the remaining ~6 miles to the NOC. I was worried going into the day that this kinda downhill could do my knee in, but fortunately ended up just being a worry. All is well with my knee for another day.As we made our way down the mountain, I decided to hike at General Burnside's pace which to this point I have avoided. We pulled away from Moosehead and I decided to use the opportunity to get to know Burnsides more. I won't cover everything we discusses, but I can say I respect the hell out of the guy, where he comes from, how he was raised, the person he wants to be, and his reasoning behind the AT. I've been fortunate enough to be hiking with guys I'd gladly call friends in normal circumatances for the past week and, even though we'll most likely split up at some point, I can say with confidence that Burnsides is one of them. Just an all-around cool guy with a good story. I'm sure he'll have the opportunity to share his story with more as the months roll along, and they will be better off for having taken the time to listen.We made solid time down the mountains - Moosehead would gradually catch up - and we strolled into the NOC at ~1:30pm. The NOC is a really chill place catering to tourists who want a taste of the outdoors without the roughing it part. Within the gap lies an outfitter store, a general store, 2 restaurants, a bar, cabins for rent, zip lines, tennis courts, and kayaking/rafting. Picture a tiny village, a river with rapids cutting through the middle, and you have the NOC. Definitely a pleasant retreat before a big climb back into the mountains tomorrow. The good thing is we have the accommodations, but don't have to pay for lodging. Some local hikers tipped us of a secret campsite along the river just a quarter mile away where we are now camping for the evening. The sounds of rushing water will hopefully be soothing us to sleep tonight.Moosehead, Burnsides, Jeopardy, Tick Tock, Rock Boat (who stumbled in just as we were beginning lunch), and I enjoyed a great lunch at the River's End Restaurant. We split some onion rings, most people had burgers, and I had a club sandwich with fries...as well as around 16 Dr. Pepper's. Cokes, actually, but Forrest Gump quotes run wild here. Moosehead, after his burgr and fries, had another order of a grilled cheese sandwich and fries. The guy can flat out eat. Props go out to Moosehead as well for donating a $50 gift card sent to him by his former employer by buying everyone's beer. I obviously didn't have beer, but the gesture is that of legends and should be noted accordingly.After lunch we retreated to our cozy camp down along the river, but not before saying goodbye to Tick Tock who continued on and Rock Boat who is taking a zero tomorrow to hopefully allow his legs to get back under him. He's actually staying the night with his wife who made the drive of several hours to spend the night/day with him tomorrow. Hopefully her love will do the trick. Catch back up, Rock.We have 30 miles to Fontana, NC - the doorstep to the Smokies - which we will make in the next 2 days. After that, it's up and through the Smokies in hopefully around ~1 week. One day at a time.Tomorrow's hike consists of many ups and downs so hopefully a restful sleep awaits. I'm wrapping this entry up and heading back for camp.Enjoying the continued support from everyone.