Russell Field

Date: 3/26/04

Starting Location: Fontana Dam Shelter
Destination: Russell Field Shelter
Miles: 13.8
Total Miles: 185.4

The Smokies are here!! First day entering the park after snapping some photos down by Fontana Dam. After waiting so long to visit the park, I had this feeling we might cross into the park, leave behind a trail of dry earth and no foliage, and enter a springtime-y paradise of green and blooming trees and wildflowers. But, it was not to be–apparently crossing a single road doesn’t spontaneously change seasons. Who knew.

Warm today with temps in the 70s and more bright sunshine (yes Mom, I do have sunscreen now)–hope it continues to hold out. Stone shelter here with bear caging in the front, and an open field where I’m sure bears and deer must forage in the spring/summer. Lots of people here tonight with several day-hikers also due to the great weather at the start of the weekend: Professor T, Semicolon, Slick, Gaia & Sasquatch, and Mo.

Feet were great today–almost no plantar fasciitis pain. Hopefully, it’s on the up and up with my nightly therapy. Starting to get a couple of baby blisters now though–think my feet have swollen from all the walking. Trail shoes in Hot Springs, here I come!