MOTHER NATURE RULES

I have spent nearly 2 months this year in the Smokies with temperatures in the 70s, often sweating at night in my 20 degree bag. With nearly ten seasons experience in the Smokies I retained my winter gear and sympathize with those less prudent when Mother Nature lowered the thermostat.
Sunday, water froze in water bottles, bladder tubes and water filters ceased to function. Although the drop in temps lasted only a couple of days some sought lower levels or aborted all together when the 45 deg. bag they carried left them shivering through the night.

Ah! But warm temps have returned!

Yellow Beauty

This Yellow Lady Slipper can be found on the Appalachian Trail between Fontana TH and Birch Spring Campsite 113.  There are numerous Lady Slippers along the 4.5 miles but only one displaying a yellow flower.  Those who enjoy wildflowers are fortunate to see these spring beauties but to find only 1 dainty yellow one among scores of pinks is especially rewarding.

Tennessee Mountain Boys

I was surprised to see Fizz and Carver and to learn they are thru-hiking the AT. They are Smokies regulars. This photo (taken Sunday April 15th) shows Carver, me, Fizz and their friend, Count Choco'la at Campsite #113, 5 miles south of Mollies Ridge Shelter.

As a Ridgerunner for years in the Smokies. I have camped with Fizz and Carver many times and have come to appreciate their friendship and, particularly, their conscientious, leave-no-trace, backcountry ways. Two, true Tennessee mountain boys!

Trail Maintenance

Just a few pics showing some trail maintenance. It's been warmer than usual and I have been busy cutting briars, clearing limbs, blowdowns, and picking up hiker trash. It has been a great Spring so far.

Fontana Village Resort - thru-hiker friendly!

Can't say enough about the peace and tranquility I experience on my off days living in the Village.  This is my 10th year patroling a 22 mile section of the Appalachian Trail, from the trailhead at Fontana Dam, NC, (the southern most entrance to the Great Smoky Mountain National Park) up to Derrick Knob Shelter.  Fontana Village owners have supplied 4 different cabins over the 10 years and each one has been exceptional for rest & relaxation.  Thanks to all the folks who manage, work and maintain this beautiful mountain hideaway. If you are looking for a peaceful place to bring your family, check out Fontana Village Resort.

Bucket Carrier

I met an interesting fellow last week, a thru hiker north bound for Katadin. "Animal" (his trail name) was not moving fast but steady. I encouraged him to jettison the 5 gal bucket he was carrying along with his pack. He keeps his food in the bucket, using it as a bear canister and was determined to carry it to Maine. I wished him good luck and told him that when he completes his hike, he would definitely achieve some kind of record. He promised to send a ‘summit’ photo for my blog. All I can say, is ‘go for it ‘Animal’.

Keep hiking,
Carl, aka Greybeard