Harpers Ferry - The End.jpg

Harpers Ferry The End.jpg, originally uploaded by Hikingfool.

Well I made it to Harpers Ferry, which I completed my 5th state! I hiked an easy 20 miles through the rain. It poured all day, but it was nice and cool. No heat and humidity! So I really enjoyed splashing in ankle deep water along the trail, since I was already soaked to the bone! So, I am officially at 1011.5 miles from Springer, and at the psychological half-way point.

Well it is here that I decided with much thought to finish my hike here. I went to the ATC office and got my picture taken as a section hiker. I was the 165th section hiker to date. There have been 662 thruhikers so far.

I have found that the heat & humidity to be to much for me. Lakewood: I don't know how u did it! i am sorry I wont be able to meet you in PA, was loooking forward to it. I came to realize I am more of a cool weather hiker, so with that I am hanging up my hiking shoes indefinetly.

I am very sorry I wetted everyone's appetite, then to crush it after being on the trail for only 4 days. Though, I am grateful I got to see CJ's and Dynamite's tribute to me in the trail register. I am very thankful for everyone's encouragement and prayers.

So with that, I am extremely happy with the 1011.5 miles and the psychological half way point. It is a great place to wrap up my adventure! I hoped everyone enjoyed seeing what the first half of the AT was like, and I hope I inspired someone to get out there and try it themselves! To God be the glory and God bless.

The end.
Shepherd

1000 Mile Club.jpg

1000 Mile Club.jpg, originally uploaded by Hikingfool.

Well it is official, I now hiked over 1000 miles since starting from Springer! Unbelievable! It is still hard to imagine, and just think of all the places around Lafayette that is closer than a 1000 miles...such as Louisville, St. Louis, Nashville. etc..

Shepherd

Hello West Virginia.jpg

Hello West Virginia.jpg, originally uploaded by Hikingfool.

Well it is official, I have left the mad state of Virginia for good, and have crossed into West Virginia. I am eating lunch at the Blackburn Trail Center. I only have 1.1 more miles to the 1000 mile mark, so stay tuned!

Shepherd

Bears Den Hostel.jpg

Bears Den Hostel.jpg, originally uploaded by Hikingfool.

Well today I zero'd at Bear Den Hostel, which was just what I needed. I have learned that I am more a cold weather hiker than a hot weather one. I have trouble with the heat and humidity.

So today I read 3 chapters in our men's bible study book, 12 ordinary men by John Macauther. It is really good. Then I ate half a pizza while watching the movie Cars. Then I talked with Amee and took a nap till more hikers showed up. Oh, I also helped Hopeful by vacuuming and making the beds. lol. I dont mind helping out, since I was resting all day. Currently there are 6 hikers here plus me. I just ate my other half of my pizza and will be enjoying my pint of Ben & Jerry's real soon. This is the 2nd best hostel to date. Kincora holding the top spot.

I guess this was the summer home of a washington doctor built in the 30's, then the patc bought it up.

Tomorrow I plan to hike past 1000 miles and maybe even into Harper's Ferry. Yeah! Then I will determine if I will go on or stop there.

Shepherd.

The AT RollerCoaster.jpg

The AT RollerCoaster.jpg, originally uploaded by Hikingfool.

Well computer is down at Bear's Den Hostel, so I will have to post via cell phone.

Well hiked 18.1 miles long, hot, difficult miles. I am 991 miles from Springer! 1185.2 from Springer and only 18 more miles of Virginia.

Today I bought my ticket fo the roller Coaster, which ia a 13.5 mile stretch with about 13 up and downs. The cost of the ride...981.1 miles, and they dont even throw in a suviener photo. I tried to raise my hand up and yell Wheeee on the way down, but to tired. Did feel like I was going to puke about 5 times on the ride though...lol.

Well I made to Bears Den hostel, which is literally a castle. pretty cool. Prob about 2nd behind Kincora for hostels. Found out today was the hotest day this week & i believe it. Literally soaked all day from sweat.

Going to zero tomorrow to recoup.

Shepherd

The Dutch Haus

Day 52: April 25th.

Officially hiked 18.1 miles to the Fish Hatchery Rd, then walked another 2.5 miles (unofficial) to Montebello, VA.

This is where the Dutch Haus B&B is located! Lois & Earl are in their 8th year doing this. They actually offer a free lunch to all hikers whether they stay or not between 11-1 pm, but I wasnt able to get there in time. So, I will get to enjoy their dinner and breakfast! They give us cool robes to wear around the house while our laundry gets done! Very cozy! Spruce & South Side are here as well. They both slacked packed 25 miles today. I havent gotten the chance to slack pack (which means you just hike with a day pack with a few essentials) yet. I would like to hear other hiker's opinions on whether slack packing is "allowed" on a thru-hike or not. So far there have been a mixture of hikers who say they would and many who say they wouldnt. I dont think I would turn down the opportunity if it came up, but doubt it will. Currently I have carried my full pack the whole time.

I officially broke the 800 mile mark today over Cold Mountain, where I called and actually talked to my co-workers today! It was great to hear their voices and their encouragement, and of course a patient was trying to get out of bed! It never fails! lol.

I am officially at 811.5 miles form Springer & 1364.7 miles from Katahdin! Tomorrow, I have a tough downhill hike down "The Priest", which has 36 switchbacks! But, then I have a equally large climb up 3 ridges mnt. So the saying is true, "If you go down, you will soon be going up!"

Just John: Great to hear from you and welcome to the blog! Would love to meet you and especially if you have trail magic! Thru-hikers crave trail magic! lol. I always wear a blue bandana and carry a hiking stick. My picture is on the post of the "one month snapshot". Also, how is the trail in PA? I have heard that it is pretty flat and the rocks dont come into play till near the end!? I also heard Maryland isnt too bad as well.

Rich: I have a tarp (1 pound) and have used it successfully on the trail. I currently use the shelters if possible, but have come out dry using the tarp in a rain storm! Most hikers still carry tents, but tarps are becoming more popular, esp. with ultralighters. I recommend the website, http://www.backpackinglight.com/. Very informative, esp. their forums!

Jen: Great to hear from you. I miss seeing you guys and esp. Kayden. Tell him I said hello! I bet he wont recognize me at Matthew's graduation! lol. Congrats on your job in Lafayette, we hope to see you often!

Alyssa: Yes, I forgot about the mouse count! I have seen 8 dead mice at the shelter. 1 alive, and another one ran over my head while sleeping. The MBG's (Mouse-B-Gone's) are working well lately, since I have 2 fresh ones! I gave out the rest PS! Thanks again!

Eikenberry: Yes, I hope my beard grows quickly! Any tips on how to make it grow faster would be much appreciated. I dont think Amee will want me to keep it once I am finished with the hike! lol. Also here is the updated poptart count!

Poptarts: 102
Snickers: 44

Bill Bolander: You should try to stay here if possible! 4 stars! Great food and wonderful place to sleep! Highly recommended!!!

Pete/Wendy: Is getting married tomorrow!! Yeah! God bless you guys and have a great honeymoon! It is finally here!

Shepherd.

Guillotine.jpg

Guillotine.jpg, originally uploaded by Hikingfool.

Day 50: 4/23. Officially hiked 26.6 miles today to John Hollows Shelter. I am 775.1 miles from Springer & 1401.1 miles from Katahdin.

I went up and over Apple Orchard mnt. today, which is the highest point since Chestnut Knob. Also went under the guillotine with my head still attached. It was pretty cool. Saw 2 more deer today.

Also went over the James River foot bridge, which is the longest foot bridge on the AT.

Amanda & Little Debbie are here.

Lakewood: Thanks for the encouragement. It really helps, because I know you have been through it already and survived. Virginia is such a long state mentally. Also is it true there are many places to buy sandwhiches in the Shenandoah NP? Just wondering how much food to carry through. Thanks.

Also thanks to everyone else who has left me encouraging messages & have been praying for me. I really appreciate it, and it really helps.

Note: There are 2 deer 30 ft away from me at the shelter, so deer total up to 4 today.

Shepherd

McAfee Knob.jpg

McAfee Knob.jpg, originally uploaded by Hikingfool.

Day 47: April 20th. Here I am at McAfee knob, which was the coolest spot yet on the AT. The views of God's creation were magnificient. We took some cool pics as you can see. Also at this spot we past the 700 mile mark! Although you can easily hike up 3.5 miles from the parking lot below and see the same sight, but it was even more amazing after 700 miles on the AT.

Well after hiking down to the next shelter (only like a mile away), we could see a storm a coming. Though we wanted to hike another 6 miles to the next shelter, but that meant going over Tinker cliffs. Which the guide book said are dangerous in bad weather, so throwing caution out the window we pressed on. About 10 mins into the hike it starts pouring & thundering and lightening. Yikes. There was no turning back. After many prayers, we reached the cliffs as the storm quit & the sun came out! God is awesome. Awesome views too.

Officially I hiked 24 miles. We are at 707.3 miles from Springer & 1468.9 from Katahdin.

Shep.

Homeplace Restraunt.jpg

Homeplace Restraunt.jpg, originally uploaded by Hikingfool.

April 20th...lunch.

Well I didnt plan on eating here but in the registers, hikers kept saying that they were hitting up the homeplace's AYCE. So, not turning food down I hike into Catawba for lunch. That is where I found CJ eating his 3rd dessert! It is southern cooking family style and all you can eat! I had fried chicken, ham, mash potatoes with gravy, coleslaw, green beans, fried apples, & cherry cobbler with ice cream. Yummy!

So as we were leaving met POW & TLC again & Leslie (now Viewfinder). I guess TLC broke her foot, so they got off the trail in Damascus, and drove here for dinner. Now that is how famous this restraunt is. My prayers go out to TLC. God bless & speedy recovery.

Keffer Oak.jpg

Keffer Oak.jpg, originally uploaded by Hikingfool.

Day 46: April 19th. This is CJ standing next to the Keffer Oak. It is the largest oak tree on the AT in the south. Last measured, the girth was 18 feet, 3 inches. Wow! It is estimated to be 300 years old. Amazing, eh! That was my nature lesson of the day.

Officially I hiked 22.5 miles, but CJ hiked 29.2 miles. More on that later. I stayed at the Pickle Branch shelter, which is 684.3 miles from Springer & 1491.9 from Katahdin. We broke the 1500 mile barrier today!

Well when I got to the shelter I got the 2nd to last space, and it just started raining. CJ comes by a little later (I hike fast with the treat of rain). Well CJ doesnt do full shelters, cause he likes to have room, so he hikes another 6.7 in the rain over Dragon's Tooth and stays at a gas station. He and Heavenbound just slept under the gas station awning for the night. It was sweet though cause he got cheese burgers for dinner & had access to a great breakfast. Too funny.

Shepherd.

Audie Leon Murphy Memorial.jpg

Audie Leon Murphy Memorial.jpg, originally uploaded by Hikingfool.

April 19th. The last post was on the 19th as well. Well since we just had a geography lesson, I will share a history lesson I learned today as well. I learned alot today.

Here is the Audie Leon Murphy memorial. He died in a plane crash near this spot. You maybe wondering who this Audie person is, just like I was when I came to his memorial. Although I bet grandma knows.

Well Audie was the most decorated soldier of World War II. He recieved 24 decorations including the Medal of Honor, the Distinguished Cross & 2 purple hearts. He was from Texas. He also starred in many Hollywood war movies. Interesting.

Eastern Continental Divide.jpg

Eastern Continental Divide.jpg, originally uploaded by Hikingfool.

I thought I would share this site with you all, and since Dana has informed me that she is teaching her class about geography.

I am in the Sinking Creek Mountains at the eastern continental divide! The water that runs off the western side goes to the Mississippi River & into the Gulf of Mexico. The water running off the eastern side empties into the James river & eventually into the Atlantic Ocean. Cool.

Stony Creek Forge.jpg

Stony Creek Forge.jpg, originally uploaded by Hikingfool.

Day 45: April 18th. Today we got to forge our first creek. I guess in 2004, hurricaine Jeannie took out the Stony creek bridge, and there was a 1.5 mile road walk detour. But, obviously we missed the detour signs and came upon the creek. We decided to throw caution out the window and forge ahead. It was only ankle deep, but ice cold. So, we put on our crocks and made it across safely. We are still purists. lol. We also thought it would be good practice for Maine! We couldnt believe it's been 4 years now & the bridge is still out. Hmmm...

We officially did 18.5 miles today, which puts us at 661.8 miles from Springer & 1514.4 miles from Katahdin. It was very hot today, and I probably didnt drink enough water throughout the day, cause we we dragging near the end. It could of been that Kelly's Knob climb was actually pretty difficult too. Hopefully tomorrow will be cooler. They are calling for chance of rain.

Wow, just found out Lafayette had a 5.4 earthquake! Unreal.

Shepherd.

Dirty Dancing.jpg

Dirty Dancing.jpg, originally uploaded by Hikingfool.

Day 43: April 16th. Today we have just been chilling in Pearisburg & Christiansburg. There isnt much to do and see, but one thing of interest is that they filmed part of Dirty Dancing at a resort here in Pearisburg. It is called Blue Mountain Resort. They were still closed for the season, so we were limited on what we could see. Still it was fun.

We are now trying to resolve the free advertizing I am giving Verizon on my blog.

Shepherd.

sorry for the finger in the photo.

Dismal Falls.jpg

Dismal Falls.jpg, originally uploaded by Hikingfool.

Day 41: April 14th. Well today we hiked 22.2 official miles, but actually hiked 23.8 miles when you factor in our side trips. We are officially past the 600 mile mark at 615.8 miles from Springer & 1560.4 miles from Katahdin. We are at the Doc Knob shelter. It is 8.2 miles from Pearisburg.

Today we went to Trent's grocery for lunch and had a cheeseburger and fries. We also got a sandwhich to go for dinner. Then we went to Dismal falls, which some one said it was like a mini-niagra falls. Far from it as you can see from the picture, but it was still pretty cool.

Today we got snowed on again. It snowed about 1/2 inch! Woo Hoo. It was better than rain though. Hopefully this is the last cold spell.

Matthew, CJ, 5 bags & Rat sandwhich are here. Rat sandwhich actually killed a mouse in the shelter and skewered it up & cooked it. Then ate the mouse meat on a cracker. He has pictures to prove it. Very cool.

Shepherd.

Gods Thumbpint.jpg

Gods Thumbpint.jpg, originally uploaded by Hikingfool.

Day 39: This is a picture of God's thumbprint or also known as Burkes Garden. It is a large , crater-shaped depression surrounded all around by high ridges. It was the first choice for the Vanderbuilts to build their Biltmore estate. It was very beautiful. The best thing I have seen in a few days.

Officially we hiked 19.1 miles today. We are 569.4 miles from Springer & 1606.8 miles from Katahdin.

It was nice to have CJ back with us, and his humor! We are staying at the Jenkins Shelter tonight with Matthew, Bobcat & Trailmix. We got a nice fire started cause I rinsed off my clothes today cause they were caked in salt from my sweat. It was bad. They could of stood up by themselves.
3 more days till Amee!

Shepherd.

Grayson Highlinds.jpg

Grayson Highlinds.jpg, originally uploaded by Hikingfool.

Day 35: Well if I thought the view from Hightop mnt was cool, I had an eye opener at the Highlands.

After Hightop, we went over Mt. Rogers to Thomas Knob shelter. There I ate dinner & headed on to Wise shelter. That is where I encountered the Highlands!

Grayson Highlands are the coolest part of the trail so far. They have wild ponies in the park. I saw 16 adult ponies & 2 younglings. I even got them to come up to me and lick my hand. Plus 2 bunny rabbits. I will put up some cool videos at Pearisburg.

Officially I hiked 23.7 miles today. I am 494.2 miles from Springer & 1682.0 miles from Katahdin.

Also today the 4 horsemen disbanded for the night. I am the only one here from our group. Dynamite & CK are tenting in the Highlands, and CJ actually is at his home. He had to get his warm sleeping back & will hopefully catch back up by Pearisburg. I have been hiking with CJ since day 14. I am alittle bummed tonight.

Lakewood: Widowmaker is here tonight. He thrud in 2007 & ran into u.

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Whitetop Mnt.jpg

Whitetop Mnt.jpg, originally uploaded by Hikingfool.

Hiked up Whitetop Mnt to Buzzard Rocks. Great views all around. Ate lunch up there for about an hour. Dynamite is chilling out and catching a nap.

Just wanted to post about it. More to come!

Shepherd.

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Tennessee and Virgina state line.jpg

Tennessee and Virgina state line.jpg, originally uploaded by Hikingfool.

Day 32: Well we made it to Damascus! We hiked at tough 25.9 miles today. My feet and legs definetly are feeling it. We are 461.1 miles from Springer & 1715.1 miles from Katahdin.

Also we knocked out another state today. Tennesse is finished, so 3 down and 11 more to go. Unfortunetly Virginia has over 550 miles long, so we will be here for awhile.

We are on our way to the Boggs' super deluxe hostel in Bristol. I cant wait for another shower and home cooking! Plus, I will get to go to church tomorrow! Yeah.

In the picture is me on the state line marker.

Happy birthday G-knee!

Shepherd.

Risk at Kincora Hostel.jpg

Risk at Kincora Hostel.jpg, originally uploaded by Hikingfool.

Day 30: Today was an easy nero day. Officially 9.3 miles, which puts us 410.9 miles from Springer & 1765.3 from Katahdin.

We are at Kincora hostel, which definetly gets 4 stars. Bob Peoples goes out of his way to cater to hikers. Bill plan to stay here. Showered and ate 3 beef n chedders & curly fries at Arby's. Dynamite ate over 3000 cals there! Then we went back to play some Risk! One of the greatest game created. I came out victorious, when all hope looked lost. Then we had some pizza & ice cream for dessert, and I know I am still loosing weight.

Well 2 days til Damascus. Rain in the forecast. Yeah.

Shepherd