After finishing the Smokies and the 240 mile section from Springer Mtn, GA to Standing Bear Farm, TN I’ve decided to head home and call it a “section.” Other than the weather, which was horrible, it was an amazing experience.

It was the first time I hiked with the “bubble” of thru-hikers going NOBO. In fact, Trail Jesus accused me of being a thru-hiker; I felt like one too. I met so many amazing people and made so many friends.

My initial goal was to get in better physical shape; mission accomplished. I realized it when I hiked up Cheoah Bald in 4 hours. I tried out a new tent; the Durston X-Mid 1P was amazing. There were multiple gear failures; a broken pack, a leaking sleeping pad and some terrible food. The big surprise was learning to have patience and hike slower. Persistence was also found; with the bad weather, it would have been easy to quit so many times. And I found angels, oh so many amazing people who offered assistance and encouragement.

I want to say a special thanks to Renegade who generously gave me a ride off trail along with companionship during my final push through the Smokies. And best wishes to Bright Spot and Bluebird; great hiking partners.

And again I realize why people hike the trail.

Final Section Stats
Days 28 (3/12/23-4/9/23)
Start - Springer Mtn (0.0)
End - Standing Bear (241.5)
Total section miles: 184.1
Section Avg:  8.0*
Total miles on AT: 1220.0
   * Zeros (4) not included

Have a heart that never hardens, and a temper that never tires, and a touch that never hurts.

Charles Dickens