June 22nd
On this last day of hiking for me we were up and on
the trail quickly. I was out of oatmeal for breakfast so had some banana chips,
a granola bar and
a two-bag bowl of green tea to get started. The trail was very eroded with
many loose rocks making it difficult walking in some areas. Additionally
the Virginia AT tradition continued with several big rocks to negotiate.
The biggest surprise occurred when we were at the end of the hike for the
day. We were in a very quiet wooded area, began hearing vehicles then broke
out into a four-lane highway (US 220 at mile 714.5) with tremendous traffic,
suburban sprawl and noise. A drive-in cleaners was 50 feet from the trail
with motels, gas stations, convenience stores and more within 200 yards.
It was overwhelming. Looking across the highway I could see another patch
of woods where the AT continued. Later we saw two hikers walking down the
highway disappear into that woods. It was almost surreal
Over the next few days I'm looking forward to time at home with Chick, Logan
and the family reunion in Colorado. More later on Grandpa Bob's great AT adventure.
(D’s Note: 9.3 miles today)
Date Modified: Sun, July 17, 2005