Welcome to the Jungle! (634.9 Miles)

Wow, it’s been awhile since I’ve had a chance to post an update.  Sprint does not seem to work at all in Virginia, thanks to shaky wifi at the classy plaza motel in Pearisburg, VA I’m finally able to update on my adventure.

This morning I hobbled into Pearisburg along with fellow hikers; Parkay, Tarpman, Leviticus,  and Stink Jacket.   After a stop in the all you can eat chinese buffet and resupply at the Food Lion grocery store I picked up my new shoes and am in high spirits. I managed to extend my first pair of Merrell Trailgloves to this point but paid for it in severe foot pain after a few falls this week. I upgraded to LaSportiva trail running shoes and feel energized for the upcoming miles.

Since getting to Damascus, VA Stink Jacket and I took a leisure week getting north to Marion, VA and then shuttled back to Damascus for Trail Days.  This first part of Virginia was very scenic with tons of wildlife.

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Steers and Ponies on the trail near Grayson Highlands State Park.

After a few rest days at Trail Days we got back on the trail and began our journey through the green tunnel.  In a few weeks the trail has turned into a jungle with lush greenery, rain, snakes and more snakes. Besides the moments of terror when I spot a snake on the trail, the time hiking has taken on a repititive feel with each bend and hill looking just like the day’s prior.  Stink Jacket and I have dealt with this by hiking less miles and taking time to take in the views and relax at camp.

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500 miles!

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School house built in 1894, filled with amazing trail magic provided by a local church group.

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1/4 way point on the AT

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Stink Jacket, slightly more excited to have reached this point

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1st suspension bridge on the AT

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WoodsHole Hostel, favorite hostel on the trip so far.

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Mr. Piggy enjoying his breakfast at the hostel

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After two hours of eating at the local all you can eat chinese buffett I began to look like this guy.

 

Next up: Daleville, VA and a much needed rest week!

 

“Exploration is really the essence of the human spirit” – Frank Borman

 

 

 

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