Day 1

Origin: Springer Mountain
Destination: Hawk Mountain Shelter
Today's miles: 9.1
Total miles: 9.1

We kicked things off with a long day, getting up at 6am to make the seven hour drive from Chapel Hill to Springer Mountain. Many thanks to Marcia, who made the drive with us and made the long drive back alone.

We quickly knocked out the walk to the terminus from the parking lot and then retraced our steps to head back north. Besides my first fall of the trek, it was an uneventful and fairly easy day. There were two decent climbs, but overall it will probably be the less strenuous hiking day we'll have until Virginia.

Weather was beautiful all day but quickly turned on us right after we cleaned up from dinner, with rain coming from nowhere. We were able to jump into our tent without getting too wet. Headed to bed early tonight and hoping we get a good night of rest.