When I left Gatlinburg, it was still quite cold. The sun was shining brightly with not a cloud in the sky. When the shuttle dropped me off at Clingman’s Dome, it was painful to have any exposed skin. I kept all of my layers on, including my buff and knit cap, all day due to the cold temps. There were parts of the trail that were ice.
I slipped and fell at one point. I landed on my knee, and my trekking pole went underneath my shin. My trekking pole bent badly. Trekking poles are important to a hiker. They become like a third set of appendages. I was worried they wouldn’t make it until I could get some new ones. I use cheap Walmart Specials, but they work just fine for me. Last hike, they went at least 1800 miles with me before I had to replace them!
I had people coming up to to me from behind asking me if I knew my poles were bent! Yes, my knee and shin were miraculously okay!
I contacted Bud to see if he could get a new one for me, since I didn’t know when I would be able to get to a Walmart. I just need to let you all know, at this point, how important a thru-hiker’s ‘support person’ is. I could not do this without Bud’s support; not only for the physical things he does like getting my mail drops sent at the right time (and running to Walmart for new trekking poles) but also the mental and emotional support. Most importantly, I know Bud is praying for me, too. Bud went to Walmart, bought a new trekking pole, and had it in the mail that very next day after I called him. We are a team. I couldn’t do this hike without him.
When I made it to my shelter, hikers were sitting out in the sun. In the shade, it was too cold to just sit. Someone set up their tent, so I set mine up, too.
When I awakened in the morning, frost was covering everything. I debated on whether to start walking to warm up, or do coffee and oatmeal to warm up. I always feel better after eating, so coffee and oatmeal won out.
I continued to see ice on the trail, but this day was much warmer as I entered lower altitudes. It’s a shame that thru hikers feel the need to race through the Smokies, because they are absolutely gorgeous! If I was going to do a section of the AT again, I’d probably choose the Smokies.
The Smokies are full of conifers and evergreens and everything is moss covered. It reminds me of a medieval forest. There are also such gorgeous views. I know y’all are probably tired of seeing mountainscapes, but I never grow tired of them. I really wish I could get some drone footage so you could get a sense of the exhilaration of being up that high. The pics don’t do it justice!
I raced out of the Smokies and did my longest day so far this hike. 18.4 miles. I pushed hard to get to Standing Bear Hostel. It was hot that day. I wore a sleeveless shirt and no leggings under my skirt. It was a perfect Spring day. I wanted a shower, a soda, and a microwave cheeseburger at the Standing Bear Hostel. They were out of cheeseburgers, so I had to settle for frozen pizza. I had stayed at this hostel before, so I knew what to expect. This was not one of my favorites, but I was desperate.
When I arrived, Special Ed and Chainsaw were there. It’s always nice to see friendly faces.
There is something that happens when you put in big miles. I don’t know if it is dehydration or low blood sugar, but I could hardly think or put a sentence together. One hostel owner referred to it as being ‘trail drunk’ so I guess it’s a ‘thing’ out here. Anyway, I was so sore, thirsty, hungry and tired. It was just a quick overnight stay, but it was both sad and a relief that I was out of the Smokies.
I’m so tired. Arkansas Traveler has possessed me at times and has pushed me to her previous ‘gotta get there’ pace. It is really taking a toll on me, and I’m not handling this hike as well as I was at this point last time.
I am again off the trail due to snow in the forecast. There will be at least one more blog post, and it will probably be tomorrow.
Until next time..
Rebound
Beautiful photos! We are having a snow storm here! 12-18 inches predicted to fall in 2 days. I can’t imagine being out there sleeping with snow on the ground. Keep trudging but be wise and listen to your body.
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This has been a crazy winter! I am trying to listen to my body. Thx for the reminder. I know you are probably sick of the snow! I e meet a couple of yoopers out here on the trail. One of them shops in Ishpeming, but I think he lives further West.
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Did you tell him I live in Negaunee? The winter is surely hanging on here too. Must be doing the same everywhere.
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Yes I did, and he knew where it was! He said he lived in the woods, but shopped in Ishpeming, and also visited Marquette. Can’t remember the name of his city, though.
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Glad to hear you weren’t hurt when you fell. I’ve done the smokies twice and have enjoyed them each time. They truly are beautiful. Be well my friend and stay healthy. I will see you next weekend.
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Hey Little Bear. I always say a prayer of the hanks when I fall and I’m not hurt, or even that I’m not hurt worse and can still hike. I’m looking forward to seeing you.
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we all know how much you’ve battled the elements this trip – but NO SNAKES in the cold (my biggest fear obviously) Having lived in Minneapolis and Calgary, we’re well acquainted with the slippery slope(s) of just walking on FLAT icy surfaces. Can’t imagine trying to make haste with patches to keep an eye out for ! Thankful only an ‘owie’ shin and pole and hope that’s the worst that’ll befall you, little lady. Stay in touch and supported by all the love, prayers, good wishes and amazement following you. We’re enjoying a chill AGAIN in Houston but know it’s short lived since it’s mid-April. Pack some Baby Ruths and keep on heading toward that CHEESEBURGER IN PARADISE. Love those Smokies and your gorgeous photos to the folks back home ❤
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Yes…I’m grateful I’ve not seen snakes yet! I don’t like them much either. Thank you for your comment and your encouragement!
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I’m so happy to see all of your mountainscapes! The Smokies are indeed beautiful, especially when you get up high enough to see views like that. Sounds like you had a wonderful time there in spite of the bone-chilling temps. I love the pictures of the actual trail, too. I think almost any hiker recognizes the invitation of that open trail, calling them into the woods. Makes my feet want to start hiking!
Sounds like you are making great progress, but I hope you can take it easy on yourself. I’ve been praying for you and hoping all is well.
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My sister teases me about my fascination with ‘the path’…I love pictures of them. What is just around the bend? I find myself taking pics of the path when it’s beautiful but there are many places where it is not dirt, but rocks and boulders. I’m sure you know that but a lot of people only see what I show them. I hope you can get out there soon!
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Reboun, I just looked at your pictures, do you realize one of your poles is bent? Lol I am very glad you were not hurt. The trail has its diffuculties, staying upright for the entire length of it is nearly impossible. I’m glad you are taking refuge during the snow. Minnesota was hit with 14 plus inches where our kids live. As a hiker, you don’t need to mess with that stuff. Try to enjoy your stay, maybe hit a hot spring to soak your muscles?
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HaHa… 🙂 Good one. I fall often! I can’t believe this weather. We have not gotten snow, yet…maybe another false alarm. Regardless, I am glad I’m not out in the cold, because it IS cold.
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Yes, my dear daughter, I have a hard time with cold weather, so why did we move to Oklahoma? Temp here this morning was @ 30 degrees. May be a record here for this late in April. Well, as far as your mountain pictures they are GREAT!! Sounds like you are resolved to finish, and resolve is good. It’s good to listen to your body, however, the Word says, “the Holy Spirit will lead you into ALL truth”, listen to Him. And, “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart, and lean not unto your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, (Jesus), and He shall direct your PATHS. Pro. 3:5-6. Forgive me, but just one more; ” The steps of a good man (or woman), are ordered by the Lord: and he delights in his way: Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down: for the Lord upholds him with his hand”. Psalms 37:23-24. Your courage in doing this trail sure prompts a lot of encouraging Scriptures to assist you in your hike. I’m sure you’re bringing up many of them yourself as you go. I’m watching your progress, but our God sees every step you make.
I love you, and really appreciate the way Bud helps and assists you!
Dad
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I appreciate the encouraging scriptures. I could use some prayers right now. Not feeling very ‘resolved’ today. Something has upset me and I’m too upset to write about it. Most people would not think it’s big deal, but it’s a big deal to ME, today, and I can’t stop crying. I could use some prayers because I can’t seem to pull myself together. It’s kind of embarrassing.
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Hey now, if it’s a big deal to you, it’s a big deal. You stay strong. I am reading this, probably to late to offer much help, but I just said a prayer, and will say another before I go to sleep.
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Thank you, Cheri!
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Rebound, Thoughts and prayers to comfort you! Your pictures are gorgeous, love the moss covered ground, mountain tops are beautiful and your Bud is the best!!! Take care of yourself!!
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