South of Dan Gap, GA to Red Clay Gap, GA: Daily miles 24.2, Total miles 47.0
Another big day! tented alone last night. Got up at 6:30 and on the trail by 7:20. Made the 8+ miles to Neel’s Gap by 11. Over Blood Mt. great view and a cool shelter. Blood’s descent was hard: steep and rocky. Walasi-Y at Neel’s Gap is pretty cool. Nice little outfitter, bought some Newtons. Talked to Mom a while which was nice. Hiked out and ate lunch at Tesnatee Gap. Ate with some other hikers which was nice. I could use the conversation. I considered staying at a shelter for the company tonight but decided to continue on and make it to Hiawasee tomorrow and stay in town. It’s only been a few days but I could use it. I am not making many friends, well, none, because I am hiking much faster than everyone else. Being by myself is still pretty lonely but I am getting better. The hiking is still good so things are fine. I am cowboy camping just off the trail and will hopefully wake up dry and early for the 20 mile to Hiawassee. Got my knife stuck in a tree when I used it as a weight for my bear line. Not the first time this has happened in my life and I had to climb up and get it. Bagels and peanut butter for dinner, as I am too lazy to cook anything. Hopefully a real meal tomorrow.
