We did a tough 17 today to Sam's Gap and got picked up by my Aunt! About 4 miles of the day was through 2-4 foot snow drifts, at some points it was legitimately above my waist. The last 8 miles took 6 hours, when it usually would take less than three! It didn't help that we were the first ones out there, so a lot of the time I was the one making the first footsteps in the huge snow. It was the most natural snow I have ever seen! Another hilight is that when Justin got picked up at Devils Fork Gap, his dad brought us all Whoppers and Mnt Dew! That was a great lunch break. They were so delicious and got us through the rest of the day! We had a lot of fun hiking with Justin and Denali, although the weather didn't really cooperate. Now we are fortunate enough to be at my Aunt's house in Asheville, enjoying a great dinner (homemade Chicken Enchiladas and black bean soup), heated building (we have been sleeping in the low 20's), a hot shower, and a hot tub! We will get back on the trail in the morning!
You boys be some very tough dudes!
ReplyDeleteSleep well,
Mama Williams
Gosh that's crazy!!!! Give Nanny and Uncle Chad and Will big hugs for me!!
ReplyDeleteI just found this blog. My boyfriend is on the AT but started 10 days after you and is currently stuck in the Smoky Mtns with snow. I like following you all so I know what is just a few days ahead of him! Keep up the great job hiking at that pace and on the thorough blog.
ReplyDeleteWow, the snow is intense!!! glad you slept somewhere warm and got a HOT shower.
ReplyDeleteThe snow is so beautiful but so deep!
ReplyDeleteYou guys are troopers ~ keep it up! We're all pullin' for ya!
Go guys, you are rocking it! Zippy and I got off the trail Tuesday at Sam's Gap - we'd had enough of the snow - and are going to take a break until after the family wedding we're attending. That puts us off trail until early April, so we'll be a good bit behind you by then. Glad you are warm and hope Bald Mountain and Roan Mountain aren't too bad... maybe even a little fun.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the encouragement! Glad to hear y'all are doing well, and have fun at the wedding. We hope to see y'all up the trail. Happy Birthday Zippy as well!
DeleteMatt, Mike-
ReplyDeleteYour picture is great! I'm so happy that y'all had somewhere warm to stay last night. Please give your aunt a big thank you hug from the Blanco's! Let's just say that we were all worried sick about all of you yesterday. I'm so proud of the gang! Keep on pushing... Your commitment and determination will get you through the rough times. Take care of each other and have tons of fun! See you soon, Ana (Panch's mom:)
Dude, you should be able to feel my envy from here! Wonderful pic and I'm glad you haven't lost more than a couple toes to frostbite between the two of you. Have fun and keep safe, if not warm!
ReplyDeleteChris R.
Anne, Chad and Will got them back on the trail after lunch yesterday, and they still made 18 miles to No Business Knob Shelter, just south of Erwin, TN. You guys are amazing! Keep smiling!
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