April 18, 1997 (Day 30 – milepoint 280.7 – Spring Mountain Shelter)

After a delicious breakfast, I packed my gear and went to speak with Elmer, thanking him for such an enjoyable stay. He offered me the opportunity to be a part of his staff in the future, which felt like a real honor. I told him I would stay in touch and keep him posted on my plans (if any actually develop).

Before leaving town, I also paid a visit to Dan “Wingfoot” Bruce, the founder of Trail Place and the Thru-hikers Handbook, and who happens to live here in Hot Springs. We had a very nice chat and he shared with me all that’s happening with his great AT resources. He says he hopes to get a thru-hike in next year, which I believe will be his eighth, but which he refers to as “one continuous journey.” Needless to say, I left inspired and happy he was willing to take some time-out for a chat.

A quick stop by the Post Office to send my watch home then hit the trail late in the afternoon, my feet anxious to start hurting again. 10.9 miles to Spring Mountain Shelter, just after sunset. I pitched my tent up the hill and joined about 10 folks by the fire near the shelter. As I ate my dinner and chomped on some marshmallows, Heavenly Sunshine gave me a killer massage.

It’s good to be back in the woods.

Aquaholic