Tuesday, March 29th

7.3 miles

Total miles 202.8

Today’s hike was a lot longer than I anticipated. I was very happy at the beginning. I feel like I might have my trail legs. It was also supposed to be my last day hiking the Appalachian Trail before leaving for Spain. 

My shuttle driver, who I messaged three times about the Clingmans Dome road, didn’t show up. The road was closed. He should have checked since it’s his job and I asked him 3 times! Anyway, I wasn’t in the best mood for a couple of hours.

Luckily, I am in a much better mood now. The hike was very pretty today. The mountainous terrain has turned into mountain pines. I wish the sun had been shining. It would have photographed better. 

Stumpknocker and a section hiker named Jack are in this shelter today. Jack offered Stumpknocker and I a ride out of the park tomorrow. Ann Shepard, a childhood friend, is meeting me in Pigeon Forge. 

The shelter is very busy tonight. I’ll definitely need my earplugs. A very large and loud tramily has taken over the shelter.