April 25

1 month

Woke up this morning to a misty drizzle of rain.  My backpack had a bit of snow on it as well.  Pretty excited about today.  After doing the Approach Trail, I started the AT officially on March 25.  I've been living in the woods for a month now!  Pretty awesome.  Time is flying by.  I've covered over 300 miles.  The memories of the Georgia mountains, crossing into NC, and entering the Smokies are all still fresh in my mind.  Only 1800 miles or so to go.  Hiking today was pretty easy going.  Stopped for a break at High Rocks, with nice views.  Sat in pool chair someone had left up there.  Haha.  Came to a road crossing at Spivey Gap, and saw in the book that we had a steep climb coming up.  It wasn't too bad though.  There was a beautiful creek that was cascading through the entire area there going up the mountain.  The sun came out for a good while as well.  Stopped at No Business Knob shelter for a late lunch.  No privy there.  I guess the name is quite appropriate.  Eventually the Nolichuky River, and the town of Erwin, began to come into view from the ridge.  Nicely graded trail, on several switchbacks, led us down off the mountain to the edge of town.  Did 16 and change today.  Stopped in for a second at Uncle Johnnys hostel across the street from the trail, but it was all booked up.  Walked the mile down the highway back to the Holiday Inn again, and Miss Janet was in the parking lot, dropping off Pops and Bonk, so we were able to split another room four ways.  Score!  Looking forward to another free, hot, breakfast at the hotel tomorrow morning.  Showers and laundry again too.  Ended up getting dinner at a different Mexican restaurant in town, with Miss Janet again.  Ate a ton.  Margaritas on special.  Got some sopapillas for dessert, and another taco!

View of the Nolichucky River approaching Erwin, TN.