AT Journey Across 2016 – 2021 Days 32 – 35

– Bald Mountain to Uncle Johnnys Hostel –

The Early Rains

Midnight always seems to be the hour when the rains decide to come in. They started with a light pitter-pat-pat to a medium downpour. Breaking down camp during the rain is not fun. Packing the soggy gear away, 7.5 miles later a hostel came into view.

Uncle Johnny’s Hostel

This is a great point for forward bounced mail to be picked up. Six hikers were talked to while waiting. A shuttle was summoned to head to a Super 8 nearby.

Recovery

Resting and getting over soreness and muscle aches was very much needed. After being suctioned into the town vortex for a nero and 2 zero days, it was tough to pull away. A shuttle was called. At 9 am the shuttle pulled up.

There was a 75-pound dog in the back. The driver said not to pay much attention to that. Opening the door is what woke the dog out of a snoring sleep. Black fur with streaks of light browns and grays blended together began to quiver to life with happy energy.

One ear was lazily covering itself, the other was standing straight up. Branden sat too near the dog who almost sat in his lap while wanting to be petted. After enough petting, the dog was snoring again. The hostel destination was nearby.

The Hostel Store

Getting some more 4 oz fuel, another mouthpiece, and food was on the list to buy. While using this as a short stop, the trail calls again.

Trail

Hiking about for a few hours, 3 hikers show up. They were from Columbia. This was a 10-day outing for them. They were testing equipment that hadn’t seen action in some time. A road could be seen in the distance.

Brother Tom

Trail Magic!!! Brother Tom from a local church waved us over. “Would you like places to sit?” How about some lemonade, tea, coffee, fudge, or berry bread?” Decisions! Taking half of the options in minor amounts was decided. Four more hikers showed up so we moved on to allow the same relaxation for them. Thanks were given and goodbyes said.

Camp

Consulting the guide and app, it was decided where to tent for the night. Looking up, the skies looked like they were compiling some rage showers. Moving up and 2500 feet later, a decent spot was found. Camp chores were accomplished as the night set in.

Notes:
1) A half liter of water is good for the night’s cooking.
2) A 20-ounce bottle of clean water is good to have for the nighttime thirst.