Amicaclola to Neels Gap

Day 1

There might have been some tears as I turned and started walking away. Surprisingly, I didn't have butterflies in my stomach, but it is still emotional to be finally starting a big change and something that you've been anticipating. The waterfall right at the beginning was very cool and was definitely the hardest, heart pounding part of the Approach Trail. I've been hiking in New Hampshire for several years, so in my opinion this trail segment wasn't as challenging as rumored. Or maybe I had fresh legs and emotional drive.

Into the mist 

I was very pleased that my all-in pack weight scooted in under 30 lbs. My dad was surprised at the Leave No Trace briefing about how much they talked about poop.

I'm staying at shelter sites to start, as building community is one of my goals. People are very talkative and have many different backgrounds, more stories to come I'm sure.

Obligatory terminus photo 

Day 2

On a chilly overcast morning, we all broke camp at a leisurely hour. It's a constant game of changing layers as you heat up hiking uphill and gain and lose wind crossing around peaks and valleys. I leapfrogged the same people from the shelter several times, though I wonder how long that lasts.

Gearing up for cold nights

Day 3

Man, cold mornings are tough. I've never done tent camping this cold before. To prevent freezing, you keep several things in the foot of your sleeping bag or quilt: water filter (these break when frozen), electronics (batteries don't do cold well), maybe a water bottle. Super cold peanut butter packets are impossible to squeeze and are best pre warmed, sealed, in your armpit inside your jacket.

Today I saw frost flowers for the first time. This is when water in the soil freezes into tube ice crystals. It was everywhere!

First grand overlook. Great lunch spot with sun and no wind.

Day 4

Hiked Blood Mountain which had some really cool views. There's an Army Ranger training facility nearby that uses the National Forest for wilderness training, and there were probably 20 men in camo with big packs, some walking some running down Blood Mountain as I climbed.

Power pose

Hit up Mountain Crossing outfitters for a resupply. The trail actually runs through the building via a covered walkway. Got some trail magic here, too, via fresh fruit and free snacks. I also briefly met the family of mom and 15 kids thru hiking together (find them on Facebook as 32 feet up).

Happy hiking!