Mountains & Magic - March 9-10th

According to Wikipedia, "Blood Mountain is the highest peak on the Georgia section of the Appalachian Trail and the sixth-tallest mountain in Georgia, with an elevation of 4,458 feet." Bob hiked that mountain just a few days into his adventure.

Blood Mountain

I also got my first report of his mileage at that point, which was 44.1 miles (I assume he did not factor the 7 miles of the approach trail he had to achieve before his official start.)

Surprisingly, he has also experienced "Trail Magic" several times in the form of drinks and food provided by "Trail Angels" - good people who show up to support hikers in their quest - in less than a week on the trail. According to the Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC), "Acts of generosity in this wild and primitive setting of the Appalachian Trail—where basic amenities of civilization are intentionally absent—are often received with a heightened sense of wonder and gratitude by hikers." Although nature itself contributes to trail magic, the ATC describes the human form of trail magic as "Encountering unexpected acts of generosity that restore one’s faith in humanity." (I'm sure we've all experienced this at some point - and/or done it - but you can imagine how welcome it must be when you are dirty, cold, exhausted and far from home. )

As you know, Bob can make a friend anywhere, so having a few companions to chat with is certainly a nice diversion after putting one foot in front of the other for hours.

As of this writing, on March 11th, Bob is planning to get off trail to wash his ONE set of clothes and take a shower. He will also rest up and eat some hot (and hopefully nutritious) food.