Big Meadows to Skyland Resort and then Luray Va. 8 miles.  This was another disappointing change of plans that in the end made sense. I ha d been told to take only 2 or3 days food into Shenandoah. The idea being that there were restaurants along the way to supplement and resupply opportunities at the … Continue reading Shenandoah finish plus a fork in the road

Part 1 First of all I'd like to say Waynesboro is a great town. Food, history, and friendly to hikers. Had a great time! Ming's Chinese Buffet did not disappoint. Leaving Waynesboro you enter the Shenandoah National Park. We got a late start but only had 7.5 miles to Calf Mountain Shelter. The weather was … Continue reading Shenandoah National Park

I need to explain a few things first. I had a lot of wet gear including my sleeping pad and bag from last nights rain. I was anxious to get to the next shelter and hoped the sun would shine to help dry things out. When wet a down bag has no insulation value and … Continue reading Trail Magic or coincidence?

Part 1 This may have been a turning point or it may be a combination of a better fitting pack, trail legs, and sections of trail which I didn't have to worry as much about my foot. There still were climbs but they seemed more manageable. In between were sections I just picked up my … Continue reading Better Week,Beautiful Views, and Rain

The trail has a learning curve that is even steeper than its hills. This was a hard week in many ways. My pack wasn't wasn't fitting correctly. Others noticed it and I felt it. I spent another zero in Daleville with No Collar adjusted the whole pack and improved it immensely. The next day I … Continue reading Gains and Pains

So many things happen each day and lots to do when I get to these towns. Including rest, resupply, communication with family, new gear, and yes I still have to conduct some business 😳. In week two I'm starting to get into the routine of life on the trail. After 2 days off the trail … Continue reading Daily Ups and Downs

The trail life is a steep learning curve. Seems that my mornings always contain some delay whether that is an equipment issue or simply me forgetting something. Today leaving Angels rest after a nice breakfast in Pearisburg I felt rushed to get on the shuttle and left my trekking poles at the hostel. No Collar … Continue reading Day 4-7 First Sunset/First Fall

It's late but I won't be able to post again until Easter weekend. First of all thanks for your interest and support. Many times each day I use that as motivation to keep moving north. I'm not sure what form these posts will take. I'm still learning how to navigate the days I get to … Continue reading Day 1-3 Pearisburg

It's been almost 3 weeks since I retired. It is less than 2 weeks until I take the first step  on the Appalachian Trail. It was and is quite a mix of emotions. The last 3 weeks felt like 3 months. Thanks to all my work friends for the support and encouragement not just for this … Continue reading Last preparations