AT section hike 2026 May 9 Rocks 🪨 and Ridges
We left Burke’s Garden Hostel with a ride in the Kawasaki which behaved much better under the driving of its owner. Our goal was 9 miles to the next shelter. It was a beautiful day, starting off cool but turning warm with a cool breeze in the 70s. We climbed up to 4000 feet and stayed along a ridge for several miles, walking in the fresh green spring growth. The rhododendrons and mountain laurels were not opening up yet this morning. There was a frost the morning before. Large ferns often lined the trail. Trilliums showed up- prairie and snow, with big blooms. Squaw root continues to make an appearance.
It was a very rocky trail today, but they were stable rocks one could step around, through, on or over. Up on top of the mountain were huge boulders. There was a rock wall, reminding me of my home state of Illinois in the Shawnee National Forest, except these formations were at 4000 ft.
Not alot of views today, but a few windows of the beautiful valley with farmland and their barns, silos and houses.
It seemed an easier day for us. Met several hikers going both directions. Thru hikers of course, but weekend warriors as well. There were 2 sheriffs from Tazwell County hiking the trail. They said they do it every weekend to ensure safety. A couple of times the last few weeks I’ve met ridge runners too. It’s good to know the trail is being monitored and maintained.
Tonight we camp in our tents along with many others. Several are also in the shelter. The water source is good here. The privy, not so much, but at least there is one.
I hung my food bag in a pine tree. Not my best hang, but hopefully will suffice. I had the Many Beans Salad by Pack- It Gourmet tonight. It was good. I resupplied at the hostel for this stretch. Butterfly continues on with me. I’m looking forward to the girls coming from WHHB, beginning next weekend! When we are finally all together, we will represent Illinois, Wisconsin, Missouri and Indiana. Watch out, AT! Here we come.
