Hiking Trail Journals

Appalachian Trail 2003 - Chelsea's Journals

Entry #35 - April 27, 2003

9:05 PM – Had a good time in Hot Springs. Ate at the Smoky Mtn Diner 4 times, went to the Pub twice, and to the Outfitter store about a million times. Had some great free food last night – Kodiak’s parents met them there and had a feast for all the thru-hikers who wanted it. Spaghetti, salads, lemonade, and sweets – it was fabulous.

But, all good things must come to an end, and we had to head out today. Sent more stuff home, weighed our packs (Andy’s – 44 lbs, Mine – 37 lbs) and hit the trail around 11:30. Kodiak, Sassy, Hepcat & some others were planning on going only 5 miles and bringing hot dogs & other good food, but we decided to skip it & go farther. We ate so much the past couple days that we weren’t too interested. The first few miles we both felt like we were going to chuck our big, greasy breakfasts. Made it to a nice site, though, around 4 or so, near the Rich Mtn Fire Tower. No one else came by, so they must all be stuffing their faces with hot dogs a few miles back. I think this is the first night we’ve been all alone.

Note: Hot Springs was pretty cool, but kind of spendy for whatever reason. We stayed at the Alpine Court Motel & IT SUCKED. $60/night and there was no phone in the room and only 3 TV stations – what a crock. Can’t remember if I already mentioned it, but it’s worth repeating.

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