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Mar 18, 2022 : Goat Roper Appalachian Trail

North Carolina tomorrow?

 

I leave Georgia in 10 miles

My first almost 70 miles on the Trail have been harder than expected at times.  Maybe I shouldn’t be surprised since I trained alongside a road in mostly flat Minnesota.   I am happy to still be here and so in love with the trail.   I can see how it grows on people.   For example I caught a ride with a guy (Frizzle) today who is doing trail magic hauling hikers.   He thru hiked in 2019.  The trail obviously still calls him.  I also caught a ride with (Penguin) who is back and working with a group that helps Veterans.

I have been in town already a few times and although the warm shower is nice I find myself longing to be back on the trail.   I am finding that most other hikers walk considerably faster than I.   It may have something to do with the age difference.   I choose to think of this as a good thing since I am always meeting new people.

Some more trail love

The tunnels of sassafras are cool.

 

 

 

 

 

 

There is always another heart.

May your legs be strong

May your pack feel light

May the views and fellow trekkers warm your soul

 

 

 

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Goat Roper
Mar 18th : Goat Roper
Author Page
Goat Roper's Bio

I am a 78-year-old recently widowed after 57 years of marriage. We have 3 children, 7 Grandkids, and 4 Great Grandkids. I have wanted to hike the AT since experiencing the mountains while in the Navy in Charleston, SC. I have been canoeing the BWCA nearly yearly since the early '60s. I am looking forward to spending some alone time on the trail, at the same time I am looking forward to meeting new friends and experiencing all the trail has to offer.

Comments 1

  • Kelli : Mar 24th

    Looks like a lovely hike.
    I think your tunnels are mountain laurel or rhododendron. Sassafras leaves are just starting to come out. Laurel and rhodie keep their leaves in winter.
    The little red heart is a Galax leaf. They too stay red or green in winter:)
    Take your time. Have fun.

    Reply

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