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

A SAD PICTURE!

We often see evidence of life along the trail, but to see the result of our carelessness is an unplesant experience. Here is a pic which shows the pieces of a foil package not properly disposed of and which has been ingested and subsequently regurgitated by some critter. LEAVE NO TRACE is much more than a motto - it is a powerful statement of our presence in this land of beauty and when it (LNT) is practiced the words we here are "hey, no one has been here!" Thus, we are further inspired to seek out more beautiful places.

Keep hiking,

Carl, aka KY Greybeard

Iconic "YOGI"

If you are a long distance hiker as I am, you have heard of or communicated with her on the trail. I am talking about "Yogi" a lady who has written the book on long-distrance treks. I first met Yogi at the 2008 PCT Kickoff and passed her last week as she is hiking the AT again. I had just finished my first week of patrolling my assigned section of the AT (my 10th season out of Fontana trailhead) in the GSMNP.

I am always pleased to see other LD hikers who share a love of the long footpaths and the many perennial hikers who tread them. Yogi and I took time to share a few stories and catch up on the news of mutual friends. As usual, a cool breeze began to blow over the mountain and we had to get moving. It was good to see you Yogi.

Keep hiking,

Carl, aka KY Greybeard (GA/ME '99)(PCT '08)

ROCKY TOP

Here I stand on "ole Rocky Top" Tennessee; actually one of the most scenic spots in the Smokies. Although in early 70' you could stand at Spence Field Junction (AT) and watch hiker progress up and over Rocky Top. Natural plant and tree growth has all but eliminated that view. The area is still picturesque. I can only imagine the panoramic view when the National Park was established, or the view that inspired the writing of the song (written in Gatlinburg).

Keep hiking, Carl, aka KY Greybeard

THRU HIKER SEASON BEGINS

Heading for the Smokys and looking forward to patrolling the AT for the 10th year. Should be a great year. I am expecting to see many repeaters and meeting new hikers. Visit my blog for updates, photos and posts.
Keep Hiking,
Carl
aka KY Greybeard
GA ME '99
PCT '08

Balsam Mtn Campground Pics

This is how we set up our camper for 8 weeks as Campground Hosts. It worked out better than we expected and overall, we spent many happy hours meeting and greeting other campers.

More Camper Friends on Balsam Mountain

This couple shared their Glacier NP experiences with us and after we got home we received a pack of valuable information (maps, brochures, NP news)from them. Thank you Veronica and John. We are seriously considering a Glacier NP vacation.