Stats: Monday night, MM 14.9 (23.7 total miles)
Can't believe it - the start day finally got here! After a last minute backpack change and repacking it twice, Mary and I headed out for Georgia.
Saturday night we arrived at Amicalola Falls and settled into our cabin. Windows open, we fell asleep to the peaceful sound of water from the stream out back.
At 4AM I woke up. Ah yes, the peaceful sound of running water on the roof. Wait, ON THE ROOF? It was raining, and raining HARD. We checked the radar and saw a huge yellow mass, then went back to sleep, praying it would stop by morning. I dreamed the sun came out and I started the hike.
Thankfully my dream came true. The rain cleared up around 9AM, and after a great breakfast, signing in (I was number 616 registered thru hiker), weighing the pack (40 pounds) and a few pictures at the arch,
...I started out.
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| Only 500 more steps to go. |
Mary decided to walk the first mile or so with me...not knowing that that first mile was almost all up hill, including 600 steps up the side of a waterfall. Beautiful scenery and view from the top, once we huffed and puffed our way up. After a brief rest at the top, Mary headed back to the car and I went on.
Made it over 12 miles the first day, about 4 more than I thought I'd do. Today (Monday) I'm in my tent in the rain, settled in early for the night. My legs feel like lead balloons - the second day was a bit slower than the first. And I have to get used to not having phone service, and phone battery. I have a lot to learn...so far, so good.
Here are more pictures from the first day. Mary took these, I haven't had enough service or battery to send any others. More next week...
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| View from the second set of steps |
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| A pair of Dons...and the view from the top. |
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| Another view from the top...straight down |
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| One last farewell, before Mary's walk down. |
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| And I'm off! Only 7.5 more miles until the official start of the AT on Springer Mountain. |
Praying for you on this adventure. Be safe.
ReplyDeleteThis is huge. What are you plans? Will you do sections or are you gone for weeks? Months? Praying for you
ReplyDeleteDon, This trip will change you forever. I am so proud of you, making all the preparations and then actually walking into your dream! Not many people take the time to experience solitude and silence. I believe you'll come to know God in a new way through this journey.
ReplyDeleteWait, you mean Don was serious about this AT hike thing...? :-)
ReplyDeleteGood luck Don! It looks beautiful. Hang in there!
ReplyDeleteGood luck Don! Be sure to do some warm ups before the walk and stretch afterwards! Maybe that will help. Praying that you have a great adventure.
ReplyDeleteGo man, GO!!! Proud of you, Bro!!!
ReplyDelete