The Last Hostel

Day 5

Weather: overcast morning

Miles travelled: 9.5

Total miles on AT: 52.9

Aches and pains: ankles, calves, thighs, knees, stomach? 

Today was my dad's last day on the trail. We started off early and felt good, going faster than ever. 

Mike caught up to us and we followed just behind him for about an hour, and somewhere in the process he was named "tigger" because of the bounce in his step. He's also incredibly fast and on the first uphill he left us far behind (I'm guessing for good!)

We reached a very rocky mossy few miles that were very slow going but we also paused often to look at plants and interestingly formed trees. 

Many of the trees are budding and it feels like spring is around the corner! 

We reached our destination at noon, to find more trail magic: burgers! We happily say down with our delicious burgers to wait for the shuttle to take us to the hostel. 

Once at the hostel, it seemed we had reached hiker heaven. We donned scrubs and gave up all our clothes to be washed. While waiting, we went into town (scrubs and all) and had a meal at a delicious mom and pop southern buffet with a salad bar, fried chicken, ribs, lots of sides and desserts. It was also incredibly cheap, $8! There were plaques with bible quotes and Gone with the Wind dolls everywhere.

My mom also sent me a box of food, but I'm sending a lot of it back with my dad because I already have enough food.

Looking forward to getting back on the trail in the morning! It's been fun to have my dad with me.