Today is the 5 year anniversary of my first steps on the Appalachian Trail. Packed 3,010 miles of hiking and 4,535 miles of pedaling into those 5 years.

I've also been working on a book on the AT trek. Just finished getting first (extremely rough) draft finished. Quite a bit of work left to do. Not sure if I'll ever really publish it. Only have 2 goals with it: don't lose any $'s and have something that a future grandchild could give a book report on.

I'll keep you posted on that but I also plan to republish some of the "exciting" days on the AT. Hope you enjoy!!

March 31 Springer Mt to Justus Creek (14.3 miles).

Hiked first mile with Kris, Brooke and Kerri.
Lower elevations (below 3000 ft) was like walking thru a forest of rhododendrons. Not flowering yet but sure spectacular when they do.

Had a snack and break at Long Creek Falls. Very cool.

6.2 miles in I ran into my first "Trail magic". A group of local people had table with drinks and snacks. As I had just eaten something 1/2 hr before I just enjoyed a Coke and a chair (which felt great).

There are a lot of places to stealth camp (not in designated spots). Some look to me like high odds of sharing with bears!


Arrived at Justus Creek about 5:15. This was my optimistic ending point for day. Didn't know if I was going to make it there as supposed to cross dirt road 1 mile from Creek/campsite. Didn't see that road but saw a place by a Creek that looked campable. Just set my pack down and a hiker came down from campsite to get water. This was Justus Creek thankfully.

Got tent set up, had some deer jerky and in bed by 6:30. Physically feeling good. No blisters yet.