Yesterday afternoon, I received an unexpected letter from Matt. While his letters have typically been preceded by a phone call a few days in advance, yesterday's communication was an unexpected treat. Here is an excerpt from his letter, dated May 11th:
Trail Journal, 5/11/2012
From Fontana Dam, N.C.
Just got to Fontana Dam at the southern end of the Smokies. I'm doing really well, we all are. We've met up with some great people out here... I can't remember ever feeling as happy or accomplished as after a long day of hiking!
We reached the Smokies and are taking a "zero day" at the Fontana Hilton (the nicest shelter on the AT). I will be hiking through the Smokies in honor of my little buddies! James and I have rejoined with Crazy Beard, Low Profile and Too Tall. Met The Bard last night and think he will be traveling with us.
Another project we are working on: our group now carries a banjo and guitar. I would like to pick up a djembe, possibly in Asheville. We are creating a band on our way to Maine! It is a traveling band, playing music and building friendships and fires all the way.
James and Matt checked in from Newfound Gap, just outside of Gatlinburg, on Wednesday, may 16th. They have done 206 miles so far.
ReplyDeleteI read that approximately 20% of all hikers who start out on the Appalachian trial quit within the first week. A surprising number of whom quit on the first day. So, James and Matt are well above the average and are really enjoying it. Just 2,000 miles to go (more or less).