Date: 2008-04-23
To: Mt.Collins Shelter
Miles today: 13.5
Weather: broken clouds

As usual, the wake up call is around 5:00 a.m. I haven't seen any roosters yet, however every other bird around seems to take it upon themselves to ensure you are awake.The big attraction for the day was getting to Clingmans Dome. It is the highest elevation point on the AT at 6,643 ft. I had seen pictures so I knew what to expect. Along the way were big climbs as usual. Today however, the views were plentiful and you could see mountains that seemed to go forever.Despite being on a mountain,scenic views are not always available. Being in a thick forest, not quite on the ridge top and the ever present walk in the clouds restricts views alot of the time. However, when you do come to a clearing on a rocky outcrop or cliff side vista, then it is all worth it.I had been told there are only on average, 40 clear days a year in the Smokys, I have now already had 3. We all found a great spot on the trail and enjoyed lunch in the sun.Seeing the structure of Clingmans Dome lookout sticking above the treeline let me know I was almost there. Freckles friends who had visited her at the NOC were to meet her here again. However, for some reason they didn't make it. Emerging from the wilderness, I was now stepping onto pavement. A sudden contrast and a bit of a slap going from one dimension into another. Although we climbed the mountain in its rugged terrain, tourist can drive to the summit.We dropped our packs among the light crowds of tourists and dayhikers. We walked up the spiral walk and enjoyed the 360 degree views. It was really a clear day and it was easy to see mountains we had already traveled and mountains we were headed for. I felt a real sense of accomplishment after seeing this. Learning we were thru-hiking, some folks asked alot of questions and took our pictures. This is pretty cool. Although I don't feel famous, being inspiring or of some interest to strangers is a compliment.I headed back down to the base of the tower, reached in my pack and had lunch. I sure could use a cold coke about now. Topshelf had the same desire and had already headed down the half mile road to the parking area to look for a soda machine. There were none! Only a building which were restrooms. Not taking no for an answer, Topshelf with all his Yogiing charm, was able to sweet talk someone out of their 2-litre bottle of Mountain Dew. (thanks to whoever you were for the trail magic)Proudly he brought it back up the half mile walk and shared his good fortune with all of us. I know a bottle of Mountain Dew sounds insignificant and not a big deal? However, let me tell you that on a hot day, having walked several hot days, parched from climbing up all the time and bored with the taste of water,That Mountain Dew was like drinking sweet elixir from the holy grail. It's the little things that seem to have the greatest meaning?After a couple of hours I think, we packed up and continued on to Mt.Collins Shelter. I had the priviledge of awarding another trail name today. This makes 3 now. This time it went to Eric from Columbus Ohio. He is traveling with 2 other guys, John & Scott? Anyway, earlier while leading the others to Clingman's Dome, Eric had taken a wrong trail and they wound up out of the way, down hill and had to climb back up doing extra miles.I suggested the choices of "Detour", " My Way", "Wrongway" or "Pathfinder". Eric accepted Pathfinder and that is who he became. Hike on Pathfinder!Upon arriving to this rather dump of a shelter, it was already full. Good, I can tent without any possible reprocussion from a ranger should they happen to visit? The rest of us found a little spot near by and pitched our camp site. I enjoy this part of the day and the downtime. It is a reward at the end of a full day. Resting and reflecting on all the wonderment I had taken in.When you can appreciate things like a small plant pushing through the bare forest floor or a little spring trickling out of nowhere from a rock, especially when you need water, then I know my head is in the right place. This is where I want to be, and I am blessed to be here.This has been a good day. Although, now that I think about it, everyday has been a good day.