Leaving the Smokies – Fox’s AT Thru Hike – Day 20

The big question as I prepared to leave today: Is this the last day in the Smokies? It was almost surreal. Perhaps the reputation of the Smokies owes more to the climate than to the hardships, and to a large extent we have been fortunate in that regard.

The last part of the Smokies after Pecks Corner is actually «downhill» or close enough to not matter. Unfortunately, too many downhills work the knees. So while the miles are easier than the climb, they are not. I bandaged my left knee and plan to leave it on until my next shower.

Tons of great views today

Everyone warned against the last refuge heading north. There are no bear wires, the shelter is fenced and you sleep with your food. This seems like a good recipe for mice. When I arrived at the shelter, a father and his two children had hammocks set up in the shelter. They were also a bit distant and sullen. I don’t mind interacting with people. But then I saw there was no signal and I pressed the waterfalls so I could text home.

Cascades is not a lodge, just a small bubbling stream with small waterfalls and six tent sites. I picked up enough abandoned bear lines to make a decent PCT. The decision to move forward worked. Instead of sullen company I have a babbling brook. Jerz arrived after dark and kindly shared his walk with the bear.

• Breakfast: oatmeal
• Lunch: Couscous
• Dinner: skipped
• Snacks: Clif bar x2, nuts, figs, jerky
• We meet today: no one new
• Days without ramen bomb: 20

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