Hot Springs

Okay, so I took my first zero finally. For those that don't know, a zero is where you spend an entire day off the trail. I stayed two nights at a really nice hostel here in Hot Springs that only allows thru-hikers to stay. I got in Saturday evening, relaxed all day Sunday, and am about to head out back to the trail after I finish this posting.

The Smokies were incredible. I talked a little about it in my last entry, but I want to talk about it again. We got incredibly lucky with weather, and though a terrible storm was forcasted (the same storm that killed some people in Tennessee about a week ago), we only got bad rain at night while we were sleeping and didn't once have to walk in it. The diversity in the Smokies was amazing - I literally walked through 3 or 4 distinct ecosystems over a 5 day period. Definitely the most unique part of the trail so far.

Coming out of the Smokies, a group of us stayed at a super relaxing hostel, where we sat in the sun all day and chilled. Was much needed, since I pulled my first 20 mile hike the day before! Coming out of that hostel, we climbed up to Max Patch 14 miles almost all uphill in 80 degree weather, and were instantly rewarded with an amazing 360 degree view. I watched the sun set up there, took some amazing pictures - it was actually very emotional, working so hard all day to have it end with that sunset.

Still no trail name, but I think it's coming soon haha so stay posted :)

It's been an amazing journey so far, and it's only begun! I'm learning a lot about myself, and what I'm capable off, both physically and mentally. I've realized that the only thing I miss so far out here is my family, which is actually a pretty incredible realization.

Once again, check out the updated photos: http://www.flickr.com/photos/48651563@N04/