Hot Springs, NC to Walnut Mountain Shelter. 13.1 miles, 3,126 feet elevation gain. Total trip miles 57.1
Got up early after a great night in a bed after a shower at the hostel. Had a great breakfast in town with eggs, potatoes, and this brown goo they put on a biscuit. Stopped by the outfitter for a new tip for my hiking pole. I hit the trail at 9:30. It was a long mileage day with a 3000 foot gain in elevation with a pack full of food. The elevation worried me, but I’m getting my hiking legs and moved right through. It was a great sunny day with a bright blue sky. Enjoyed hiking on the trail covered in a carpet at Autumn leaves. Made it to the shelter at 6:00 with time to set up the hammock and cook dinner. Enjoyed some peppered turkey jerky my wonderful wife bought for me with some dressing. On to Max Patch tomorrow.