Origin: Niday Shelter
Destination: Virginia State Road 624
Destination: Virginia State Road 624
Today's miles: 16.8
Total miles: 698.8
Total miles: 698.8
Today marked a full eight weeks on the trail. The weather marked the occasion with the coldest morning we've had in nearly two weeks. It was very welcome, as both of us felt very content and comfortable in our sleeping bags. It stayed cool all day, with the high only reaching the mid 50s. Except for a strong wind, it was nearly perfect hiking weather.
After a steep climb, we came across a monument to Audie Murphy, the most decorated American soldier of World War II. A recipient of 24 awards, including the Medal of Honor, he had died in a plane crash in these mountains. A number of visitors had left American flags planted around the monument.
The second half of the hike was filled with views. Magge sat on a rock and rested while admiring the below view and gliding birds. She said it was one of her favorite views of the whole trip.
We came to a stone monolith called Dragon's Tooth that I thought was pretty cool, but other hikers were nonplussed with it. Maybe we hikers are starting to get a little spoiled.
The descent from the Dragon's Tooth was one of the toughest we've had. It was extremely rocky and tricky. At one rock, I thought I had a bit of a ledge to step down on. However, it wasn't wide enough and I slid down five feet and landed hard on my left shoulder. It was easily the worst fall I've had so far, and I don't know how I didn't hurt myself. In the split second after I slammed into the ground, I was worried I may have separated my shoulder but it turned out fine. My collarbone that I broke when I was 15 ached for a bit, but other than that I escaped unscathed. I have a feeling I may be a bit sore tomorrow.
We made it to the Four Pines Hostel, which is really just a generous guy named Joe's garage. He drove us to resupply for the next two days and to an all-you-can-eat restaurant, where we stuffed our faces. Tomorrow should be a great day, weather-wise and scenery-wise, so I wanted as much energy as possible.
So e of the best pics so far, I read several books about Audie Murphy, what a hero
ReplyDeleteBe gentle on your shoulder honey. Those views are specracular!!!! Love ya
ReplyDeleteWhat a view! It is breathtaking.
ReplyDeleteSlip and slide is not fun on a rocky path. Glad to hear you didn't injure yourself otherwise I would come and pick you up PRONTO!
I am happy to hear good weather is forecasted in your neck of the woods. They are forecasting snow (yes, you read that correctly)for areas of the eastern U.S. Ouch!