Day 12: Magical trail! – The walk

Today we have a great magical trail! But before we got there, we woke up from The Grove hostel in Franklin.

For the first time since the beginning of this journey, I weighed myself. I already lost 8 pounds. Which is to be expected, and I have some reservations anyway. But it’s a reminder that we need to watch our calorie and protein intake.

They took us back to Winding Stair Gap and off we go! Especially me, with my new shoes. They are great!

We love pretty views, so we often take a blue trail (side trail) if there’s something nice at the end. Bald Siler was no exception. A short but brutal climb. But it’s so worth it! You have a nice 360 ​​view from up here. Awesome place for an early lunch.

Trail magic!

Today’s hike was great! I feel unstoppable. We met a hiker going in the opposite direction and he told us there was a magical trail on Wayah Bald, four miles from here. I have to admit, I might have walked a little faster after this news. Although I told myself it probably wasn’t there anymore…

But it was! Trail angel Paul had it all! Homemade burgers (which were the bomb), hot dogs, snacks for the road, fruits, vegetables, cold drinks, whatever. He even thought about the hikers with all kinds of hygiene products. Paul is just amazing like that.

We sat down, thoroughly enjoyed the drinks, food and pleasant conversations. I really appreciate it. Thanks again Pablo!

After this beautiful break, we walked towards the stone tower at Wayah Bald, with another incredible view.

Camp tasks

A little hike later, we arrived at Lick Log Camp. There we meet Beavers again, along with Trombone. Very ‘gezellig’, but there is no time! I have to cook, brush my teeth, and hang my lunch bag PCT style, something I’ve never done before.

Since I’m still planning on getting that bear can asap, I use my dry bag where I normally keep my quilt and clothes, as a food bag. The clothes for now go in a trash compactor bag, which I took from the hiker’s box at the hostel.

After some searching, I found the right tree. It takes some learning to cast it correctly without getting all the rope tangled. But some time later I did it! Although I still want that bear to be able to…

No bear will understand that!

I’m exhausted… So I go to my tent!

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