New Jersey & New York

New Jersey

Eight down, five more to go!

July 11

       Selfie at the border of Pennsylvania & New Jersey! The first day in Jersey was a success, the terrain started to noticeably improve (there are still rocks, but they are much gentler & kinder thus far). The lakes are perfect swimming temp and a great escape from the midday sun. I also saw my first Rattlesnake (nearly stepped on it, oops)! I also hung a wicked bear bag.

Two down. Twelve to go.

       Two down. Twelve to go.

       During my stay at Standing Bear Farm (241.3), it was brought to my attention that one of the teeth I had work done on previous to my departure was abscessed & was becoming increasingly painful. I was also the new owner of a particularly nasty bloody, infected blister the size of China. After many phone calls... many, I had very spotted service at Standing Bear. I got scripted medicine for the infection & made an appointment for a root canal, which meant I needed to get to Ashville, fast.

The Smokies.

The Great Smoky Mountains.

What to say, what to say. The general consensus among my fellow thruhikers is that everyone is happy to be out of the park. For good reason, the weather is harsh & unpredictable  (snow, ice, fog, rain, below freezing weather). Also the Smokies are the only place where paid permits are required &
the $20 permits don't seem to benefit the hikers, overnighter are given priority and everyone's on edge about getting harassed by rangers & written tickets for one of the dozen rules set in place.

That being said I personally enjoyed the smokies! The weather was great compared to what it could've been! I was lucky enough to get a handful of clear views, even through the snow covered terrain! And I will always remember the smokies with a smile.

Week one & still walking to Maine :)

Today is day 6 that I've been on the trail. So many things have happened. And my life has already changed!

My mother and sister drove me up to Amicalola so that we could register and grab some snickers! Then we drove to springer and started from there! The first day was a lot of fun! Met a few awesome characters that keep popping up!