Journey Day 181 | AT Day 4

The views from Blood Mountain were misty, but majestic.

3/25/86

Up early, we tackle Blood Mountain. Great views, although misty. The feeling of being atop a rocky peak is exhilarating. Hike on down to Neels Gap, passing hikers headed the other way. Downhill grueling.

Nice store right on the trail, its breezeway only indoor portion in 2,100 miles on A.T. Get new o ring for stove, correcting fuel leak. Also a Spenco knee brace that proves its worth.

But as I’m leaving, I realize my pack frame’s cracked. I flip out, call out store owner. We discuss the merits of Jansport equipment. I call Jack, we push it together and hike on. I remember little until Tenatsee Gap, where I catch Jack, after no breaks. We take a road shortcut, then up to Low Gap Shelter. Quick crash, sore and tired.