The 420 LASH Immersion Daze

420 LASH Day 3-5: 40 more miles exit at NOC

 “The best remedy for those who are afraid, lonely or unhappy is to go outside, somewhere where they can be quiet, alone with the heavens, nature and God. Because only then does one feel that all is as it should be and that God wishes to see people happy, amidst the simple beauty of nature.” Anne Frank

Turning it Off

The rain was still coming down in the morning, so I packed up quickly and hit the trail. On my way to Rock Gap I passed several thru hikers.

The hike to Rock Gap was only 9 miles but it included the steep climb up Albert Mountain. Despite the terrain I maintained a fast pace and arrived at Rock Gap early.

At the Rock Gap shelter an older thru hiker was taking a zero day to recuperate. He told me the shuttle from Franklin would be arriving shortly so I hurried off to catch the shuttle to Winding Stairs Gap. At Winding Stairs Gap I laid out my gear to dry in the sun as I waited for Don to come up from Franklin to hike with me for the next few days.

Trail Enlightenment 

Following yesterdays enlightenment on truly enjoying the hike, I made a conscious choice. Turn off my phone and just walk. 

I decided to continue this trail meditation forward as Don joined me. We had 30 more miles to the Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC) and we took our time, stretching those miles over the next 2 nights.

The Appalachian  Trail As a Teacher

On Day 5 we began our descent into the NOC. The trail passes through a short, rocky cliff section. This was a spot that genuinely intimidated me during last years thru-hike.  

This time, after enduring the trials of the Whites and other rugged sections further north, the cliffs here didn’t feel that intimidating. I was proud that my strength and confidence the AT taught me last year had stuck with me.

I’ll Be Back
With bitter cold temperatures and heavy rain forecasted for the coming days, I decided to step off the trail for a few days.

I’ll be back soon.