Dragon Tooth – Fox AT Thru Hike – Day 49

As of today I had three options: 10 miles today, 23 tomorrow or 16 and 17 or 24 and 9. I started out leaning towards the latter if I slept well.

The day began with an oak forest and a gentle climb to the Audie Murphy World War II memorial. The monument is located on a short side trail. I’d say it’s worth it if that’s your kind of thing. It is also a good place to take a break.

After the monument, I started to go down. I had to stop three times until I found a way to tape the toe to protect it. I finally made it to Trout Creek where I met Jack the Tripper. Like most hikers I know, I doubt I’ll see it again. I seem to go faster or slower than everyone.

Leaving Jack, I began the journey towards Dragon’s Tooth. It’s a hard road, but really nice when you get there. I didn’t get on the tooth. I lack confidence and despite my high risk tolerance, it is too risky.

I didn’t know, the descent is much more difficult. I barely managed a mile per hour when I pulled the tooth. Once the riots were over, I accelerated. This is not a section you want to walk through after dark. I walked for a while along a stream passing an old mill before emerging into the cow pastures.

One more climb. I reached the ridge. The ridge up to Catawba Shelter was much less technical than around Dragon’s Tooth, but still welcomed the arrival of daylight. After multiple stunning views, I arrived at the Catawba Shelter. I hope to have a rest day tomorrow so my body can recover.

• Breakfast: Oatmeal with blueberries, cashews and oat bran.
• Lunch: couscous with tomatoes, cashews, raisins.
• Dinner: Ramen, backpacker’s pantry mhshroom stroganof
• Snacks: clif bar, fig bar x2, strropwaffel x2, kind bar
• Met Today: Billy Goat, Jack the Hiker, Centipede

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