We Aren't There Yet (picture heavy)

As expected, Bel and I started later than we probably should have.  Sleep is important and so is trying to get the gear in order.  It appears that I may have left some incidentals at home.  Oh, well.  

We started at the Lodge with a wonderful breakfast.  We drove down to the visitors center after packing up.  That is where we officially signed up to start the hike.  I am number 832.  Bel was a few numbers off from me.  It isn't precisely in order.

We had our picture taken under the stone arch that marks the beginning of the assent to Springer Mountain. Springer Mountain is where the Appalachian Trail actually starts.  I think we actually started hiking somewhere around noon.  Some of the following pictures were taken by Ranger Leon.  Thank you to Leon and all the Rangers and volunteers that help make this happen. 

These next few pictures are posted in the opposite order.  I don't know why. 

My pack weight.  

The first challenge was the Amicalola Falls.  600 some odd stairs later and lovely views of the Falls and we were already feeling it.  I was anyway.  There was a parking lot at the top with restrooms.  We did some adjusting, met up with Corvidae, and had lunch.  

The rambling brook the falls becomes.

Bel hiking with their rain poncho on.
It was sprinkling, threatening rain, when we started.

Amicalola Falls in the distance. 

Reflective pool.

They chose to count down.

Bel!

Down

Almost!

This is the brook just before it goes under the bridge.

This is the other side of the bridge.

Bel and Corvidae 

Lunch break and car repack.

I think it was after two before we got underway again.  We took short pauses along the way.  We had a long break when we reached the top of Amicalola Mountain.  We left there at 17:34 and headed on our way.  It was a good rest, but our chances of making it to Springer Mountain were even more diminished.

Maybe Mountain Laurel?

I'm a slow hiker.  Bel is wonderfully patient.  We made it to Black Gap Shelter sometime around sunset.  It was dark, except for the light of the moon, by the time the tent was up and dinner was ready.  While eating I noticed Venus and Orion watching over us.

☮

Thank you for being here and being part of my daily happy things. Stay safe!