Date: 2009-05-19
From: Apple Orchard

To: Overmountain Shelter
Miles today: 17.7
Weather: clear sky

This shelter, interestingly enough, is actually a barn which got its name because of the "overmountain men" of NC, TN< and VA who crossed the mountains here en route to battle the Brits during the Revolutionary War.My pen froze last night (I'm using the Register's pen now) so I'll continue making up for the last couple days' entries.On Sunday I didn't start hiking until the rain stopped, but the trail was more like hiking up stream than up trail. The temperature had also dropped significantly, so my feet were a bit chilly, but I survived.The shelter was full and there were a few camped outside it. Koop and Seeker were already there when I got in, four section hikers joined us (one slept outside) and Tron and Penny caught up and camped out under their tarp. I awoke twice during that cold night. The second awakening was due to Koop having some ridiculous leg pain--he said he was about to vomit!--and the collective movement to get him some Ibuprofen. He felt a little better in the morning.I woke up early the next morning and got moving as quickly as possible. Once I started hiking everything was great. The same was true of today. I have been able to see my breath for almost three days now, with the exception of 10-6 today. It probably hit the mid 50's or possibly low 60's today at the warmest--it's been PERFECT hiking weather.The last two days have been clear, sunny, and have had beautiful trail. I've hiked over probably a dozen balds and also Roan Mountain, I know I'm missing details here, but I'm doing what I can.Yesterday morning, on Beauty Spot, I met some people who had been at Trail Days too.They were litterally camped in the middle of the trail--but they gave me a bagel and some soda, so iit was okay. Apparently Mala was coming to meet them.I know that other notable things happened, but all I can think of right now happened at the end of the day. I saw Frankenfoot (and dog!)just after Iron Mountain Gap. He was slackpacking, but it was cool to see him again.Not too much later I arrived at my campsite: an enormous field with a nearby stream and tons of flowers. I was joined by Joe, John, and four new section hikers. I talked to Joe and John for a while, they're cool guys.This morning I got up early but took longer to get ready. When I pulled my fly off the tent I found a few sheets of ice had fallen off! Nevertheless, last night was warmer than the night before.I leap frogged Joe and John most of the day, but our breaks overlapped when we got tothe balds. We got caught up at Grassy Bald--which was on a 1/2 mile sidetrail--but offered an incredible 360 degree view. I think they may have camped up on top there.As a result, I am entirely alone in an enormous barn that could easily sleep thirty or more. This shelter does have an excellent view though; I can't wait for sunrise.Wild life: today I saw a snake (same type as before)and *gasp* I spooked a wild turkey.Body: the pack feels like nothing after they adjusted my pack for me! My hip flexor/butt got angry late afternoon, though. I had some spasms, but everything felt great after I sat down and stretched a little.Trail itself: really rough coming up Roan Mountain, it was frustrating. Coming down it was great, though and the following balds had incredibly nice terrain. The trail recently has been maintained--new trail/switchbacks--and I loved it!The last two days have been incredible and idyllic.