Days 11-15

The last few days since Franklin have been some of my favorite so far. Gorgeous vistas, good friends, perfect timing, and some trail magic in the form of a white van (thanks Lonnie!)  

One night, our group of three was dead tired and looking for a camping spot before the thunderstorms hit. And a huge climb was just ahead. The idea of climbing one of the steepest climbs so far dropped our spirits dramatically as the rain started to fall.  And then suddenly around the bend was a flat, grassy spot, just the right size. Tents went up quickly, and we stayed dry.

Trail magic in the form of a van... We were pushing to get to Fontana by 6 for the last shuttle. Four of us split a room for the night. One of our crew, appropriately named Scout, zoomed ahead. Us three slower hikers didn't know where he was. We had to find him and hike another 1.5 miles in 30 minutes. Out of nowhere, a white van pulls up and out jumps Scout. A trail angel named Lonnie was driving him around looking for us. He gave us all a ride for free! Plus some bananas!

Again, the generosity people have shown me so far is incredible. You have no idea how good it feels when you've been cold, wet, hungry and tired and someone gives you a banana or a bottle of water. The simplest of acts go a long way. I know going forward I'll be more attentive to those around me. 

I love this trail. I can't believe it's been two weeks and almost 200 miles. Smokies here I come!