He LOVES the area and spent some time at the Natahala Outdoor Center. They were able to help him "shakedown" his pack and make it about 8 pounds lighter. (www.noc.com)
Of course, we have received pictures of food (and to think he never enjoyed eating before!) and of the surrounding area. He says the people are very "hiker-friendly" and he loves the scenery. I am so glad he is enjoying the town. The favorite part of this area is seeing the same faces he has seen on the trail-- it seems to be a comfort to have some "friends" around that you made on the AT!
The AT near Wesser/Bryson City also experienced the storms Georgia did this past week but Dad says either they were not as intense or he slept right through them :) However, the trail was very slippery at times and I have posted a photo below to show how narrow it is at times. (But always still marked by the white blaze!).
The shelter picture below is where he and four other hikers were "hunkered" down during the storm
I am so glad he is enjoying this food/shower stop and look forward to him being back on the trail toward Gaitlinburg (although rumor has it not so "hiker-friendly".)
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| Appalachian Trail winding through the mountains! |
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| Rufus Creek Shelter- A roof and side walls - Typical AT shelter, I believe. |
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| Outfitters Store at Natahala Outdoor Center. I hope Dad can work here when he returns from Maine :) |
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| The view from his motel room. Scott told him to "lay by the pool and enjoy a margarita." :) Cheers. |
YOU GO GARY
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Lay off those margaritas!