Again, in this short first month of our adventure, we find ourselves in a forced zero situation. The crappy weather that has plagued us for the past three weeks is continuing and we are currently in the middle of 'Winter Storm Virgil' near the Nantahala Outdoor Center, in Bryson City, NC.
The past two days, we hiked 20 miles in the most ridiculous weather, rain, misting, walking in and through clouds, slogging through ankle deep mud and yesterday, hiking 7 miles DOWNHILL in a blizzard.
Not your ordinary snowstorm. I mean, 55 mph winds, determined to push us off the side of the mountain and whip our faces raw with snow, like ground glass. We slid on our butts, down switchbacks made of giant boulders, hanging on for dear life to tree branches that hung by our sides. My knees feel the pain of every footfall going downhill. Most people are thrilled at the prospect of not doing huge climbs and dread the days of 3000' climbs. BUT, I'd rather climb uphill every day, all day, than go downhill.... Any day.
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We (5 of us) are 'stuck' in a tiny cabin made for 2, along with all our gear, AND Charlie, because the shuttle driver cannot make it up the mountain to get us. 8" more of fresh snow fell last night. Even our things on the enclosed porch were snow covered this morning.
So, here's where we'll sit today, going over gear, packing things we'll bump ahead to continue our quest to eliminate weight and work on various tasks.... Two of which are a jigsaw puzzle and another taking a nap on a couch made for humans.
I'm going to rest my knee and enjoy the day of not pounding it. In just two short days, we'll have to turn Charlie over to the kennel that will watch him while we 'cruise' through the Smoky Mountains, (dogs are not allowed in the park). It will be a tough 6 days for us.... Highest elevations for us thus far, longer distances between shelters, (tenting not allowed, must stay in shelters), no Charlie AND the Smoky's have just received a fresh couple of feet of snow! Weather is predicted to improve, but it's still going to be tough going.
I'm remaining confident that if I can get this knee through the Smokies.... I can make it all the way!
We've endured the worst AT winter weather in history, people are leaving the trail due to the weather and injuries due to the weather and were still here. We're strong and it can't stay winter forever!
"Whether you think you can or can't, you're right." Henry Ford
watch the newest video from TNT on the Trail here!!!!!
Damn, you two are tough. Or nuts. Sending thoughts for safety and better weather.
ReplyDeleteYou are tough! Thinking of you :)
ReplyDeleteYou guys are awesome! I continue to read journals of people that have given up and yet you two and Charlie continue to preserver! You are such an inspiration to us all! We are going to be doing a section hike around Hot Springs on April 4 & 5. We will continue to follow your journey and if we can get near you we will trail magic you and join you on the trail for a bit.
ReplyDeleteSo happy to see this blog entry and video. Gosh, that stretch of trail was tough for me and I didn't have the snow and wind. I've been praying for you and will keep on praying. I hope to return to the trail at Stecoah Gap/Hwy. 143 on Easter Monday or Tuesday. God's Blessings on your journey, PrayerWalker
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