Some more pastoral fields today--so green in the low-lying valleys that at times, I stopped to imagine that this might be what Ireland looks like. Walked through the rain for the afternoon and decided to stop here for a not short but not long day to relax, do some reading, and give my rain gear a chance to dry out a bit. Nice to be here enjoying a sunny evening now.
US 11
Date: 4/22/04 Starting Location: Partnership ShelterDestination: US 11Miles: 11.6Total Miles: 543.9
Partnership
Among all the days on the trail so far, this one was pretty unique. No great views or scenery, just a nice short walk surrounded by more and more signs of spring's awakening.
Trimpi
Now here's a state that has got it down. Virginia gets an A+ (as my sister Gretchie would say) for beautiful trail, easy terrain, nice shelters, and privies at every last one of them. Very comfortable day for walking through the last bit of the highlands and on through rolling hills all the way to the shelter.
Wise
Stunning scenery today. Long easy climb up to the bald area on Whitetop Mt. where Camel and I teamed up for most of the day. Incredible landscape that looked more like open highlands in Wyoming or Colorado--great expansive grassy areas today strewn with rocks. Perfect breeze also to cut the heat and sun a little bit.
Lost Mt.
Too hot for this Vermonter. Sunny today, and should be all week, but the temp was in the 80s with very little wind and no clouds. I've decided that heat is simply Kryptonite to this Mountain Man. Lucky for me, this pasty-white Superhero (Hi Sarah!) at least packed his sunscreen. Nice walk today, and spent some time just soaking my feet in a small cool stream that the trail crossed over.
Damascus Zero Day 2
Beautiful day for town R&R with the other thru-hikers, eating my face off, and catching up in my journal. Spent most of the day running errands around town and going back and forth to the outfitter across the street from Dave's Place Hostel where I'm staying.