AT section hike 2023-Dicks Creek Gap to Lemon Gap! Part 1

My first resupply and familiar folk! My son thru- hiker Kris, his wife Carla and my grandson Kenaniah, came to rescue me for a day. We stayed over in Franklin, had some good food, and I slept in a real bed! Laundry was done and enjoyed my time with them.

The first view of the Smoky mountains could be seen from here, even Clingman’s Dome!

At Wayah Bald, I ran into a church group of youngsters. They were doing this section also going nobo. They were really quick though and stayed ahead of me. They cameled up (filtered water) at the Wayah shelter a mile or so from the tower, but I was beat and ready to camp.

The next day, I climbed through more beautiful scenery. One more night by myself. It was a nice area to camp with a shelter and water supply not far away.

The next day, I was actually descending to the NOC, the Nantahala Outdoor Center. There were spectacular views all the way down. I started early, above the clouds. It was exhilarating! I would be meeting my hiker buddy friend Kathy for the next stretch.

I reached the NOC about noon, tired but happy. I went to the office for my resupply and keys to my lodging for the night. I ate a great hamburger and salad at one of the restaurants. My room wasn’t ready to be inhabited yet, so I enjoyed watching the river and the young group playing near it I’d met at Wayah Bald.

The next day, I met my friend and we began the long uphill 8 mile climb out of the valley. The NOC is at 1723 ft above sea level. We hiked to 4391 ft, in those 8 miles.

Kathy and I stayed that night at Sassafras shelter. We pitched our tents and got a decent nights rest. The next day we hiked up 1331 feet to Cheah bald. Cheah Bald’s elevation of 5062 ft. Of course, then back down we go!

Climbing to Mount Possible reminded me of a scripture I quoted and meditated often;

With God, nothing is impossible.

And back up again, this time, in the rain. 🌧️. Just before we arrived at the shelter, we climbed Jacob’s Ladder, an infamous series of precarious steps. Finally, we arrived at the shelter for the night. There was a beautiful sunset, but I couldn’t stay awake long enough to watch it! There were others there with us. The last 2 nights, we’d had a couple of guys that were good company who were out for a section hike.

I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me! And With God, nothing is impossible.”

Stay tuned for part 2!