Hike #8 : July 13, 2013
4.4 new miles
101.1 total overall miles
81.6 total miles of 800.8
Eddie and I arrived just before daybreak at Newfound Gap to an abundant amount of fog. I'll be trying out a new piece of gear today. A cho-pat knee brace. If you've read some of my previous posts, you'll know why. Anyway, as we start up the Appalachian Trail, we're soon greeted by a spectacular sunrise. The fog quickly disappeared and the rays of sun showing through the trees was indescribably beautiful. I imagine between us we took dozens of pictures. I doubt we'll ever be blessed with another light display like that.
Around 3 miles in we came to the Icewater Spring shelter and hung out for a while. There actually is a pipe with a constant flow of water just a few steps down from the shelter. And, yes, it was ice cold. The next mile and a half was like walking through an enchanted forest and then the forest opens up to amazing views.
Four and a half miles isn't that far to go considering the payoff here. Standing on Charlies Bunion watching the fog melt away as it rolled around the mountains is a true taste of freedom. Top of the world!
On the way back we stopped again at the shelter and had some nice conversation with other hikers as we counted the mice scurrying in and out of the shelter walls. We had planned on hiking out to The Jump Off but the fog had rolled back in taking with it any chance of a view. We'll get it next time.
When we were leaving, we decided to drive on up to Clingmans Dome and hike out to Andrews Bald but the fog wasn't having any of that. We couldn't see beyond the parking lot. Guess we'll get that one next time too!
Oh, and the knee brace? Worked better than I could have dreamed. Now I have to buy another one for my other knee!
TRAIL REVIEW
Appalachian Trail - 4.4 miles out 4.4 miles back
1 shelter (Ice Water Spring)
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