UTMom81 wrote: »

Mission Slimpossibles' Appalachian Trail Thru-Hike Challenge

The Southern Terminus to Neel Gap
Distance so far: 37.5 miles

Our view from the top of Springer Mountain, the official beginning point of the AT:



We made it up the Approach Trail to the summit of Springer Mountain, the official beginning of the Appalachian Trail. Pat yourself on the back. That was quite a climb! Today we see the first white blaze like all those countless blazes which will mark this trail for nearly 2200 miles. It is painted on a boulder at the top of which you will also find the iconic plaque marking the significance of this trail.

The plaque seen below with the first white blaze reads: “Appalachian Trail, A Footpath for Those who seek Fellowship with the Wilderness.” Someone once described the trail this way, “Remote for detachment, narrow for chosen company, winding for leisure, lonely for contemplation; it beckons not merely north and south, but upward to the body, mind, and soul of man.” –Harold Allen



We also climbed the tallest mountain on the Georgia section of the AT in our first 37 miles, Blood Mountain. Rumor is that the name of Blood Mountain came from a particularly bloody battle between Cherokee and Creek Indians. There is also a nearby Slaughter Gap named for the same battle. Although that may be a bit disconcerting, the views certainly are anything but troubling. Check this out!



Because we are such awesome steppers, we also made it all the way to Neel Gap, home of the famous Mountain Crossings store at Walasi-yi (the Cherokee name for this gap). The AT literally goes right through the building, but the neatest thing about Mountain Crossings is the tree outside. If you look closely you will see many pairs of hiking boots and shoes literally hanging from the branches. It is tradition that hikers who complete the AT will often return to this spot and throw their boots up into the tree in appreciation of the folks who run this special place.



Exercise challenge for today: After logging some incredible miles over some major climbs, be sure you do some extra stretching or some yoga moves today to help avoid injury. Here’s one site with some ideas for us:
https://www.rei.com/blog/hike/6-yoga-poses-to-help-you-return-to-the-trail

UTMom81 wrote: »

UTMom81
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Kres567 wrote: »

UTMom81 wrote: »

UTMom81
Tuesday Weigh In
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Current: 154.4

Bet that felt good!