I’m here at the Hot Springs public library and I’ve made it through the Great Smokie Mountain National Park. Sorry that I didn’t do a small update in the middle of the trip. I was going to, but right before I uploaded it I wanted to change a photo, instead of deleting just the photo, I accidentally deleted the entire post. It was annoying so I gave up and slept.
This post is just going to be a general overview and some of my impressions of the smokies. I’ll put up all of my favorite pictures too.
The beginning of the smokies was very wet. It didn’t actually rain that much, but the fog was quite heavy. It’s obvious how the smokies got their name now. There were some times when the fog would clear ever so slightly and you were met with these amazing views. I’d say until now, we haven’t come across a true mountain. Unfortunately I had my phone buried in my pack to prevent it from getting wet that day.
The weather by mid day 2 was spectacular. We had clear skies and warm weather. It’s so nice to have sun after just a day and a half of intense fog. It really helps at drying everything out. We had lunch just below rocky top. What made the views just that much better was the fact we were facing southwest. These were ridges we had all ready gone over, something that made me feel accomplished.
Day two was also when we started getting into the coniferous forests. I’m not sure what kind they were, pines or fir trees? I should know more about this. This was a really nice change because until then, everything was deciduous.
The weather would stay nice until day 5 or so. We got a good downpour that night and I didn’t get a spot in the shelter. Everything was fine though. I got to test my tent in a deluge and stayed completely dry.
The smokies also were the highest part of the AT. Clingman’s Dome at 6,644 feet is the highest part. People often joke about the Appalachian Trail being all down hill from here. Another fun part of Clingman’s Dome was all of the tourists. It makes a thru-hiker feel like a celebrity, with people always asking you questions and wishing you good luck.
The weather improved once more and we got to Standing Bear Hostel. This was a rather… interesting place. I think Arlo Guthrie would be the appropriate music choice. There were dogs running around, a roster, and a few cats. The place was built by hand and I don’t think a single code was followed. It was overall a really awesome place and the guy who runs it is a character. I’d recommend it.
After the Smokies it was just a three day walk into Hot Springs. So far the town has been my favorite on the trail. The food and beer have been excellent, and I even got to do a work for stay at the hostel here.
Overall, the Smokies have been my favorite part of the AT. Many people would disagree with me, due to an increase of bad weather and more regulation. We were lucky though, only a few periods of soggy weather, it never got to cold, and I didn’t mind more regulations. I will say that it’s nice now that I can camp wherever I choose, and I don’t have to worry about being kicked out of a shelter due to people with reservations. Everything outside of the Smokies and the White Mountains are on a first come first serve basis.
My next resupply will be in Erwin, roughly 5 days from now. Oh, and I also got a mohawk.
-Orion
Wow, the mohawk looks much better than I expected.
Très chic Mohawk, Orion! May be especially appropriate when you hit the Mohican neck of the AT.
You know I’ve never really cared what you do to your hair. Remember shaving it all off, dying it black, and your toddler mullet (now that really did look cute when you were three). Hair always grows out.
Now just make sure you put more thought into the first tattoo you decide to get.
Mom
I love your new hair cut. You’re blogs are real treat. You are in my prayers, stay safe and have a great time. Love Nana
WOW what a great adventure. Love the blog, we share it with the folks in Nana’s program every week. The hair is cute and will grow out, watch out for sunburn. The jury is still out on tattoos they don’t grow out. Well I love you! Grampe
Not a fan of the Mohawk but you look happy and that’s what’s important. I’ve read all your updates and they are a real treat. Glad – and not at all surprised – that you’re doing so well.
I’m quite glad I didn’t have to witness this one in person.