Origin: Cheoah Bald
Destination: Cable Gap Shelter
Today's miles: 14.0
Total miles: 160.2
Another bear-free night is in the books. We woke up to a cold and windy morning and got going. Not too much exciting happened today - we covered 14 miles over rolling terrain with one fairly challenging climb, Jacob's Ladder. It had been built up by other hikers we talked to as being tougher than Albert Mountain, which we climbed to reach the 100 mile point. However, I didn't feel as though it was nearly as tough. Although it was longer, it wasn't as steep and wasn't full of rocks so we could properly plant our trekking poles.
We're in a shelter right now because it's supposed to rain today. We were told by a hiker a couple of days ago that it was his favorite shelter, but I don't know what he was talking about because it's cramped, dirty, and has a warped floor. For dinner we had a "just add water" gumbo we found in the grocery store in Franklin. Magge used the whole bag, which contained eight servings. It was a ridiculous amount of food, but I tried to eat it all because I hate dumping food in the woods. I made a valiant effort, but ultimately failed, as a serving or so remained. It wasn't very good either.
We have a short day tomorrow as Fontana Dam is only 5.5 miles away.
One person's definition of challenging trails or blissful comfort does not always turn out too accurately. Sometimes it's good that it doesn't but other times not so good.
ReplyDeleteHomemade food, even homemade dehydrated, will always taste way better than storebought. Pretty sure you are looking forward to eating some taste spaghetti one evening. :)