What a memorable day! Woke up at the cable gap shelter in North Carolina and made our way to Fontana Dam. Kevin met his mom there to pick him up for the end of his 4 day section hike. The Fontana dam shelter is known and the “Fontana Hilton” and the nicest shelter on the trail. It had a charging station, potable water, picnic tables, the whole deal… and A HOT SHOWER! And bathroom faciiities, it was unreal! That was an amazing shower. Said goodbye to Kevin and pressed on. The actual dam and visitors center was really impressive and neat. Got some snacks and trekked across the dam alone. Saw beautiful wildlife, Canadian geese and beautiful views as the clouds and storm settled in. Entered Great Smoky Mountains National Park! It was surreal, finally back in my home away from home. 9 days to walk back to the smoky mountains. Tons of rain but made it up to the shuckstack fire tower for a brief cloudy view. Saw a bear taking a nap in a tree, first bear on trail seen! Then stayed in my first shelter, Russel field shelter, alone! Passed jolly shelter because a few people were in it. Luckily dried all my socks and gear and clothes out inside shelter and got a great fire going with a great dinner.. crazy story to follow! It POURED rain all night.
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15 сен 2024
