Everything I need will be on the trail

I aoke with a funny sensation. I realized today the trail was going to take m3 right through a town. Everything I need will be on the trail. I am quite excited.

I packed up quickly, eating oatmeal cold. I was on trail by 8:04AM. At 2MPH, I should be in town by now later than 3PM.

The climb up and over Bluff Mountain was antu-climatic. I was relieved though, realizing that it was mostly downhill from there to Hot Springs.

The rolling descent ended around 1PM, when I rolled into Hot Springs, NC. I immediately checked in at Elmer's with Elmer. He gave me a tour and laid out the rules of the hostel, and showed me my room.

Elmer is a delightful man, pleasant and simple. He also cooks wonderful vegetarian meals.

It turns out I am sharing a room with the General. He has been roughly one day ahead of me since Woody Gap. It was nice catching up on things and trading trail stories.

I decided I was going to complete most of my town chores tomorrow during my zero mile day. However, I decided to get my laundry out of the way, and to treat myself to the Hungry Hiker burger at the Smokie Mountain Diner.

I eventually went to the outfitters to check my email and buy some stove fiew. I should not run out anytime soon.

I spent the rest of the day lounging around and talking to other hikers bopping arounf Hot Springs.

Dinner at Elmer's was quite wonderful. We were treated to salad, soup, crackers, rice, and bean soup. It was delicious. Thank you Elmer.

I then played the board game "Apples to Apples". That is a fascinating game, considering I am semi-pathetic at it.

Well, I think I shall sleep, it is 9:17PM. I am looking forward to the comfy ned that awaits me.

Good night, and good luck.

Kirby

Ga>ME 2008.