“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” Proverbs 3:5-6 NIV https://bible.com/bible/111/pro.3.5-6.NIV
A little maintenance on an Indiana trail, before my big hike
My AT adventure for 2026 begins this week! I’ll probably just be posting at hostels or wherever I have time and signal. Hopefully each week, I’ll give you an update.
Thanks for following my adventures! I hope they inspire you to go out and have your own. I pray that your faith is strengthened and your hope is renewed.
Let’s go out and do big Kingdom business for God, whether this means at home sharing with your family and friends or at work or out in nature. Whenever you are, let your Light shine! To Him be all the glory!
Do you like rocks? I know I do- all sizes, shapes and forms.
Rock on the Adena Trace trail, Indiana
Rocks are solid, hard to break, all sizes.
We climb rocks, throw rocks, collect rocks, travel far distances to see rocks.
River to River trail, Illinois
Native Americans used rocks as tools and weapons. 3rd world countries still do.
In Biblical times rocks were used to pile up and were made into altars to worship God.
In the Bible there are many references using rocks. Most special rocks marked specific places where there were specific happenings. Rocks were used to help them remember. I’m sure you have rock collections that help you remember about a special time or location or trip.
Gems are rocks- people receive rings and precious stones for weddings and special times and specific vows.
Moses stood upon a rock and parted the Red Sea.
Moses struck a rock and water gushed forth to give water to the multitude of Israelites that followed him out of Egypt.
Moses desired a deeper relationship with God – even more than He already had. Show me your glory! And God did by hiding him in the cleft of a rock, after placing him on the Rock.
David spoke of rocks and lived among the rocks and caves as a boy shepherd caring for his sheep, wresting bears and lions.
Then he killed a giant with a rock and a sling.
Jesus, when wanting some alone time or just time with his closest followers, his disciples many times, went into a solitary place- the wilderness, a garden, the mountains. I’m sure He enjoyed the surroundings. The rocks! He stayed overnight in fellowship with His Father, getting direction, comfort and encouragement. Sometimes his disciples were with him. He spent time with God the Father, the Rock of ages.
Another time, Jesus shared a parable about a man who built his house on the sand. Another man built his house on the Rock. A storm came to both houses. The rain came down, the wind blew and the floods came. Only the house that was built on the rock stood.
White Rocks, Cumberland Gap
Where do you stand? Where do you run to be and stay safe? Run to the Rock, who is Christ Jesus.
“You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you. Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord, the Lord himself, is the Rock eternal.”
Last week, we talked about Jesus’ last week here on earth. He was sentenced to die on a cross, which He did, at 3 pm in the afternoon on that Friday.
As I was hiking today ( Saturday) I wondered about that Saturday. What would it have been like for the disciples and believers in Jesus. I bet their faith was tried. Some were sad. Disappointed. Mad. Hopeful?
“He died. He’s buried in that tomb over there. The soldiers are guarding it. All is lost, or is it? What was Jesus trying to tell us, about raising from the dead? What do we do now?” I’m sure they were in hiding, mourning the loss of their leader and Savior.
What was Jesus doing down in Hell that Saturday? Waiting. Trusting. He’d taken all of sin for all time with Him down there. I’m sure Satan was pretty pleased with himself. “Lookiy here. I have the Savior of the world down here with me. All mankind is doomed to hell forever. Hehehahah ( evil laugh 😈 ). “
Sunday! The wait is over! Once the 3 days were over, the Father God said, “ That’s enough! No more of this!” With His Mighty Powerful arm, God raised Jesus from the dead. Out of Hell He came, leading captives away free. He took the keys of death, hell and the grave from the devil and rose up out of the devil’s lair. The devil was totally defeated that day- terribly humiliated, I’m sure. He was stripped of power and defeated for all time! Jesus took it all away from him and gave the Church the authority to use His Name over anything the devil tries.
He still tries to deceive and make people think he’s something, when he’s not. The Bible says he roams around like a lion, seeking whom he may devour. He’s like a lion with no teeth. He looks for those who give him permission and open up the door to him. But you can keep that door shut to Him by listening to the Lord and being obedient to His Word. If you are God’s child, you are no longer the devil’s.
Jesus Christ is now seated at the right hand of the Father. He’s praying for us. He sent the Holy Spirit to the earth now to live in our hearts when one accepts Jesus Christ as Lord. We are now His children, born fresh and new, once we’ve surrendered our lived to the living Savior. For He is alive and well!
He did it all for you!
One of my favorite Easter Hymns:
“ Up from the grave, He arose!
N yWith a mighty triumph over His foes.
He arose a Victor from the dark domain
And He lives forever with His saints to reign.
He arose! He arose!
Hallelujah “. Christ arose!”
📕 This is the greatest story, because it’s true. It’s the Good News! I hope you read all about it! It’s in the Gospels clearly, but the story unfolds before and after, so get into the Book.
God isn’t done yet! God continues to work in mankind and will continue to, until the end of the age.
I hope you share the good news of what God has done in your life today.
It won’t be long until my epic adventure of my 2026 AT hike begins!
I’ll be starting near Roan Mountain, just south of the Virginia border in TN. I have 4 ladies joining me at different times as I hike north across the state. God willing, I will arrive in Harper’s Ferry, WV in early June.
I’ll be attempting to blog on the weekends or when I’m at a hostel, each week. I am beginning my hike the middle of April, so it is coming right up!
The Helene year, 2024 and the Maine hike of 2025 AT section hikes I will have to wait and share about, after my 2026 trip, as I’m running out of time to put them together before I go.
2024, just before Helene, on the ATMaine. Oh what a place! 2025
If you have any questions about my trip, please let me know!
AT bag tag awarded me by the ranger in Monson Maine. Yes! Section hikers can have them too.
Thanks for your prayer support and interest in my endeavor! It’s my desire to keep you informed and share the journey with you!
The Smokies were the hardest thing I’d ever done but yet the most rewarding, so far. It was worth it to climb those difficult but amazing mountains, to see the grandeur and majesty, and to experience the wonder of this beautiful place.
Carla, my daughter -in-law and my grandson, Kenaniah came to pick us all up from Clingmans Dome at the parking lot. We walked down the paved trail and loaded into her Expedition. We all went to enjoy pizza in Cherokee, the nearest town, about 17 miles away. Then she dropped Suzie and I off at the hotel we had reserved. It was a much needed rest, but we had some regrouping to do. Kris, my weatherman, noted it was to get extremely cold the next few days in the Smokies- down in the teens. Suzie and I were not equipped to handle such weather. It was our intention originally to go back up there and finish. We stayed an extra day in the hotel as the worst of the weather came through. There was a strip mall near by and we walked uptown to explore the casino shops.
We went for a walk in Cherokee, TN, just to keep from getting board
With Kris’ help, we planned a new route, while Suzie and I hunkered down in the hotel in Cherokee. In the mountains up in the Smokies the nights were as low as 13 degrees and they’d had a few inches of snow. Suzie and I were not prepared to do that extreme of cold, nor did we have our ice spikes.
So we changed our plans. One has to be ready to switch it up when things don’t go exactly as planned. So it is with backpacking! Gotta roll with the punches.
We decided to start back at a lower elevation. We would get on the trail at the underpass of I-40 and go up the stairs to head towards Snowbird mountain and Max Patch Bald. With the elevation being a couple of thousand less, it should be more tolerable temperatures.
Resident cat in our hotel
We grew impatient to get back on trail . We couldn’t find a shuttle or even a Uber driver who would take us. Finally, we called our trail angel, Carla, and she drove over 3 hours to get us and put us back on the AT. Kris and Kenaniah joined us too, to see us off.
She dropped us off at the I- 40 underpass. It was pretty late in the day. Suzie and I were headed to Painter branch, a camping area not too far, about 3.5 miles. However, it was getting dark and we were getting nervous about finding camp. Down at the road where the hostel turn off was, a couple of miles back, there was a sign warning about bears in the area. We wanted to get settled in and find a good branch for a food hang before dark. We came upon a place near a creek we thought would work, but the campsites were very sloped. We took it anyway. We slid down in our sleeping bags all night. I woke up with my mattress half way up the side of my tent! I did get some sleep tho. The moon was bright and it was a quiet night.
My sleeping bag slid up my tent, the ground was so sloped!
The next morning I checked our food bear hang. It made it through the night untouched! It was not a good hang- we could easily touch our bags, they were so low. I prayed over it that night and asked the Lord to keep it safe.
I walked up the trail a little ways to find a good bathroom place, and lo and behold! Not 100 feet from our camp was the Painter’s branch! Flat spots to camp for several tents! 🤷🏻♀️
We hiked on that day through beautiful fall colors. The leaves were turning on the vegetation, bringing in the glory of autumn. Reds, yellows oranges and purples were on display.
One of many green tunnels Suzie, on our way up Smowbird Mt
Up and up we went. From 2865 feet to 4263 feet we climbed in 2.4 miles. We arrived around noon st Snowbird Mountain. The first thing one noticed was this odd white building. It is an FAA tower. One can walk all the way around it and get a 360 degree view. We could look to the south and see the Smokies and Clingman’s Dome. We noticed storm clouds brewing, so after lunch, we headed down to the shelter.
FAA tower on Smowbird MtFabulous views from Snowbird
1800 feet descent in 2.5 miles later, we arrived at Groundhog Creek Shelter. It was mid afternoon, but we decided since it looked like rain and was forecasted, we would spend the night here an enjoy the protection of a shelter instead of our tents.
We made a fire. An older man “Just Lonnie” came hiking in. He was a sobo hiker. He’d lost his wife to cancer and decided that hiking the AT was what he wanted to do. He was in his 70s. He’d hiked several miles that day. We enjoyed his company and got a good night’s sleep in the shelter. It did rain some in the evening and the night, but no rain on the morning.
Our home for the night. Ground Hog Creek Shelter
The next day, we hiked 8 miles to one of my favorite views so far of the AT, up Max Patch Bald. Wow! What a view. I cried when I reached the top and looked around at all the majesty of those mountains. Oh God, how great you are! Thank you for creating all this. You said in your Word, you create all things to enjoy! Thank you Lord, for allowing me to enjoy this majestic beauty!
Fantastic views at Max Patch Bald. Suzie walking in the grandeur of it all.More Max Patch.
I got word the night before that a good friend and sister in the Lord has passed away. I wanted to be at her funeral. I knew it was time to go home. On our way down from Max Patch, while we had good signal, we attempted to call shuttlers. We finally found one who would come to get us for $150 and take us to Suzie’s car. We decided to call our angel again! Carla and Kenaniah would come to the rescue the next day, to meet us at Lemon Gap.
Our last night, we camped at Roaring Fork shelter. This was a busy place. It was just a few miles from Max Patch. We arrived about 7 pm. All the tent sites were full, so we stayed in the shelter. There was a guy who slept in it too, on the other end, but he was nice. We hung our food bags on the bear cable. It was a cooler night, probably was in the low 40s by morning.
Bear cables the last night
We hiked down a beautiful trail along a creek to Lemon Fap, about 4 miles. Suzie had not fallen the entire time until she hit a patch of mud and fell face first. She was ok though! We made it to Lemon Gap about 11am.
On our way to Lemon Gap
The road Carla traveled up to Max Patch was no joke. No wonder Reuter wanted $150! It took Carla awhile to get to us. There was no signal so we couldn’t reach her. We said we’d meet at 11am. At 12 pm Carla and Kenaniah pulled in. We headed back down that arduous road and drove on to Hot Springs, where Suzie had her car parked. Originally, we thought we’d make it that far, but plans always change, especially the farther one goes. We found a restaurant open- Rocky Mountain Diner was closed. We were told due to COVID, the restaurants take turns who’s open when, because they don’t have enough workers.
Finally, about 3pm, Suzie and I part from our trail angels Carla and grandson Kenaniah, and we head for home. It was a long night, but we had lots of laughs sharing and reminiscing about our trail experiences and life in general. I met up with Kenneth at Culver’s in Columbus, IN around 11 pm. We still had 2 hours to go. It was 1:30 am when we got back.
Oh what a time I had, but so good to be back with my best trail angels and hiking buddy husband.
I came home to a house full of balloonsKenneth grows a beard while I’m on trail.
Total mileage for this year 2023- I hiked 130.8 miles.
AT miles so far hiked, counting the Approach Trail: 291.3 miles! It’s worth every step.
I’m reflecting on the day the scriptures say Jesus came into Jerusalem, riding on a donkey. The crowds lined the streets waving palm branches and shouting “ Hosanna!” Meaning “Save us, please!”
They thought he was coming, as it was said in the Old Testament, as a king to override the Roman government, who ruled over them. Instead, He was coming to destroy another ruler, Satan, who long ago put himself over mankind when Adam and Eve sinned in the garden. Jesus Christ came to take back mankind from Satan’s rule, and get us back into fellowship with God, the Father, as it was in the beginning, before there was sin.
The entry of Jesus coming into Jerusalem was the doorway. The next few days, Jesus would experience what He was born to do. He knew through the scriptures that He would have to give up His life so that those who He came for, you and me, could live free from sin and eternally with God. Without His sacrifice, no one could ever enter heaven. No one would ever be free from sin. All were destined for hell, because of the fall of Adam. Jesus willingly went through the next few days, so He could win us back.
Thursday would be his final day with his followers. He ate His last meal, the Passover.
Passover was a time of remembering in Moses’ time, the Jews were delivered from the death angel that came over the land of Egypt to destroy their firstborn. It was the final blow on the Egyptians. The Jews were instructed by the Lord to sacrifice a lamb for each family and paint its blood above their doors. The death angel “ passed over” when he saw the blood. That blood of those innocent, spotless lambs was setting the stage for the One spotless Lamb who would pay the price for the sin of all mankind.
Friday, known as good Friday, is only seen as good when one looks ahead past the torture of this Man, and what He would accomplish by giving up His life. He was brought to trial, beaten, whipped, stripped and finally nailed to a cross. He took willingly upon Himself all that was wrong, all the hurt, the evil, the heartache, the misery, the mistakes, the sin, all bad upon himself to pay for us and buy us back from hell, where we were destined to go without a Savior. At 3 pm on that Friday, being on the cross for 6 hours dying between two thieves, Jesus cried out “ It is finished!” And he bowed His head and died.
His body was buried in a borrowed tomb. His soul and spirit were in hell. Satan thought he had won- killing the Son of God and locking him up for ever. He thought he had beat God and there was now no chance for ever for mankind to come back in right relationship with the Holy Father God. Mankind, he thought, was cursed forever and would live in hell forever with his evil self.
But wait. There’s more! Sunday, the third day, was the most powerful day that ever has been, or ever will be! Satan had met his match. He would soon lose his keys to death, hell and the grave!
For the rest of the story, watch for the Sunday Evening Post- Resurrection Day!
Take time this week, to think about what Jesus Christ did for you. Don’t let what He did for you be in vain. You have the power to make the decision to accept Him as Your Lord and Savior. All you have to do is ask Him. Believe that He died for you, because He did.
Antioch Faith Outreach Church, in Paris Il. If you don’t have a church, find one that preaches the Gospel. You can also watch us on Facebook or you-tube. God bless you!
Kathy and I headed down the tremendous descent from our shelter to Fontana Dam Marina. It was an arduous descent- took us most of the day. It was over 11 miles until we finally arrived. We would see the Fontana Lake and think we were close, only to hike away from it. The trail was a series of very long downward switch backs. There were some large and cool fungi growing there though, near the trail that was interesting to see.
Fungus among us
Kathy also saw a bear. 🧸She was ahead of me a few hundred yards and yelled frantically and loudly
GINGER !!!!!! 🐻 Bear!!!!
I tried to quickly get to her. She was afraid of the bear, but it quickly ran away.
Once we finally reached the marina area, we were beat. There was a less than 2 mile stretch to the “Fontana Hilton” and the parking lot to where Kathy’s truck was parked. However, we were so tired, Kathy hitched a ride with a guy that worked there to her truck. She drove back to get me.
Kathy and I went to the lodge. I had a room reserved for 2 nights. We cleaned up, then went to eat in the restaurant. Kathy then drove to her friend’s house, which wasn’t far away, where she had her camper. I enjoyed javing Kathy with me! Also, it was wonderful to have a real bed and a shower! I did a great deal of sleeping the next couple of days! I will miss my great hiking partner, though. Thanks Kathy! Hope we can do it again.
The next day, while waiting for my next hiker buddies to arrive, I went down into the village and did my laundry and visited the camp store. Suzie, Kris, Carla, Kenaniah and Louis came. We had dinner together that evening, then the guys, including Kenaniah, my grandson, stayed in the Fontana Hilton. The “Hilton” as it is nicknamed, is one of the nicer shelters. It has a real shower house close by. Also has power stations one can character electronics. There’s a grill there and picnic tables. We girls stayed in the lodge.
Fontana Dam- my new hiking company
The following day, we headed for the Smoky Mountain National Park southern terminus, which was just across the Fontana Dam. We said goodbye to my daughter-in-law Carla and my grandson, Kenaniah, who was sad about leaving his Dad. One day, he will be hiking with us! He’s just not quite ready yet- he was only 7 years old at the time.
The Smokies were hard! Even with my trail legs, I found it challenging to hike the less than 6 miles to the camping area. (We climbed from 1862 ft elevation to 3736 ft elevation in under 6 miles). It was straight up from the get- go and still climbing.
View from Shuckstack Fire towerClimbing Shuckstack firetower
We climbed up the Shuckstack firetower and enjoyed the spectacular views. Onward we went. Finally, we reached the campground at Birch Spring Gap. We had difficulty finding enough room for our tents. Suzie, Kris and I made it work- all 3 tents in one tenting area, overlapping some of our lines. Louis had a hammock.
We met some interesting folk in the Smokies. One couple was from Switzerland, section hiking the GSNP. There were several others there too. We sat around a campfire and talked while we ate our evening meal. Afterwards, we hung our food on the bear cables.
We were on top each other! But at least we made it to camp
We had no rain at all in the Smokies. It was pretty warm and very dry. We were able to cool off at night. The next day, we stopped at Mollie’s Ridge shelter to rest. ( elevation 4585 ft) Then on to the next shelter, Russel Field, where we tanked up on water. We were now headed up, up, and yes up to our final destination of the day, Spence Field Shelter at 4917 ft elevation.
Are we there yet?!
What a strenuous, most difficult climb! It really worked on us mentally. Beautiful, yes, but many rocks and roots, and precarious areas of trail one couldn’t avoid. This was my hardest section to hike, ever!
My heart tree💜
One of the coolest things though about doing something hard, and you are pressing in for inner strength to do it, God always comes through. I saw this tree:
I was reminded how much God loves me and I really can do all things through Christ who gives me strength, even when I think I can’t go on. He helped me to do that last mile and boy! Was I glad to see that shelter!
The Smoky shelters were large with fire places
The next day was better! We hiked to Rocky Top with excellent views at 5440 ft elevation.
We ate lunch out there and enjoyed one another’s company. Some other women hikers joined us up there. It was an outstanding, moving experience, seemingly being on top of the world with friends and family.
Rocky Top
More Rocky Top
Ah, Rocky Top
We drug ourselves away from there to a technically difficult part of the trail descending to Derrick Knob Shelter. We had a nice evening, enjoying other hikers as they came into camp. We only hiked 6 miles but a rewarding day, and a needed break from the tough miles.
The next day, we hiked on to have lunch at Silers Bald Shelter. This shelter was investigated by Louis and Kris. Its frame seemed like it was giving way- was very old and was leaning in places. Being carpenters, they made some observations about the cabin’s current condition.
Some of these shelters have been here awhile! Nevertheless, it was a place of refuge in these mountains , and am sure of it could talk had stories to tell of the vagabond hikers who stayed there.
Siler’s Bald shelter
Onward! Since we were behind in our mileage due to the difficulty of the trail, we turned off at mile 200.2. Yes! 200 miles! We headed to Clingman’s Dome ( now called Kuwohi), because Kris and Louis were on a time limit and had to get back home.
The forest the last few miles was absolutely stunning. It was like you entered into another world. It was full of moss and oddly shaped trees bent and twisted from years of wind and weather. Beauty all around!
Headed to the DomeLouis with his victory pose! We made it!On top of the Observation TowerHere’s our Smoky Mt crew going to enjoy pizza, celebrating our accomplishments.
But wait, there’s more! Stay tuned to part 3 of this wonderful AT section hike 2023! My next blog will take you on with Suzie and I as we adventure on.
“Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28 NKJV https://bible.com/bible/114/mat.11.28.NKJV
This was a fabulous year! I’m so excited to share with you my journey. Here it goes!
Kenneth and I at Mountain Crossings
Kenneth, my hubby and best trail angel, drove me from Spencer, IN where we lived to Blood Mt. Cabins at Neels Gap, GA. We spent the night there in the Bear cabin. Each cabin has its own animal theme. I hiked the next day the section from Jarrard Gap, where we got off trail last year to Neel’s Gap. There was a 5 mile section over Blood Mountain, that we missed, I wanted to see.
Blood Mountain
That section was beautiful! Blood Mountain is worth a day hike, if nothing else. It was a good warm up for the trail ahead. I hiked on into the cabin where we were staying, just a 1/4 mile from Neel’s Gap and Mountain Crossings.
Kenneth and I spent our last night together before I ventured off solo this time. Diane had planned to come, but couldn’t make it. I looked forward to others joining me later. I knew God was with me and I’d be just fine.
Kenneth dropped me off at Dicks Creek Gap. I took off up the mountain excited to be back on the AT. It was a pretty tough climb up those 9 miles with these Hoosiers legs, but I made it late afternoon to the GA/ VA border! Just a little farther was the cool gnarly tree and the camping area. A nice spring ran through the valley there. The camping area was up on the hill, of course.
The Bly Gap tree
God is sooo good! There were two ladies setting up their tents for the night. They were part of a Minnesota hiking group. One of them was the leader. We shared our evening together and enjoyed a gorgeous sunset. Thank you Lord, for giving me someone in the camp the first night.
My camp companions from MN my first night. Bly Gap
The three of us had breakfast together, then parted ways. They were heading south and I north. The climb was pretty steep and rugged. I hiked through a beautiful field of touch-me-nots as I made my way to the shelter for lunch. The privy was memorable in not a good way- it was so small you could barely shut the door. The shelter was very old.
I hiked on to my place for the night, enjoying the views. The reward of hiking up mountains is there is often a break along the way that shows a spectacular window of those majestic Appalachian mountains. It is inspiring, to say the least.
Usually, I met someone on the trail each day, but almost all were heading south. I do have the exception of a guy from Costa Rica. He was doing a section hike for a few days. He knew very little English and I knew very little Spanish! He was very nice though, and we got along well. He hiked much faster than me, but I would catch up to him at lunch or the shelter for the evening. We would eat at the shelter for our evening meals and tent camped close by. This happened for a couple of days.
My Costa Rica hiking buddyThis was the best shelter this stretch on trail! My Costa Rica friend was there too that night.
Shelters- I didn’t have a liking for staying in shelters yet. They were hard for my mind to wrap around- They were 3 sided. Everyone around sees you lying there. Bugs. Potential bears and possible weird people. Don’t forget the Mice!🐁.
My tent was my private, hiding place.
My tent this section, a Marmot Tungsten 2UL
When he no longer was on trail with me, I hiked on. It always seemed like I was going uphill. On one of those treks I was starting my day as usual, with what was my theme song for the year.
The song, Abide” by Aaron Williams, helped me hike with a knowing purpose, and relax, in His Presence. As I trudged up another mountain, I saw myself doing a video presentation to a group of interested people about this AT trip. I thought that was cool, but had no idea how to do it. Once I was home, I told my daughter. She told me to try the I- movie App on my phone. About that same time, I received a call from an old friend. She asked me to do a presentation of my hike for her women’s Bible Study group’s retreat. Wow God! I knew to say yes! This was a God set up. But, that’s another story.
No one else was there at the next shelter. Oh, but what beauty was around me! The stars were brilliant. I had no rain! The barred owls sing and the whipporwills on the distance were whipporwilling! No bears. Cool nights and warm days. It was calm and peaceful each night, as I allowed myself to be still.
On top of Fire tower at Albert Mountain. 100 miles!
Verse for the day: Jeremiah 29:11-13 NKJV https://bible.com/bible/114/jer.29.11-13.NKJV
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Kris hiking with me! In the Shenandoahs on the AT
Part 1: We started off celebrating 10 years of Kris’ AT thru hike of 2012 with the first 600 miles with his Dad. Their trail names were Joshua and Caleb. (They have a Facebook page, that is still up, if interested: Joshua and Caleb on the AT.)
Grandson practicing for an AT hike log crossing someday. At Spacious Skies Campground. Luray VA.
Kenneth and I drove up to Luray, VA and met Kris, Carla and grandson Kenaniah, who was soon to turn 4 at Spacious Skies Campground. We rented a cabin for 5 days. Kenneth and Carla corralled the grandson while Kris and I hiked 22 more miles of the Shenandoah section of the AT. It was a beautiful time together as a family, and a special time hiking with my son. We had breathtaking views of the northern section of the SNP.
Part 2
In the fall, I had the privilege of joining some of my hiking buddies from Women’s Hoosier Hiker Backpackers. (I will share more about WHHB in another post).
Liz C wanted to celebrate being 25 years cancer free by hiking a portion of the AT! And she wanted to start at Springer Mountain. On one of our earlier group hikes with WHHB, I heard them planning and asked if I could tag along. Suzie had the same idea. They graciously allowed us to crash their party!
So when fall came, we had it all planned out. I was going down early, with Diane. Diane wanted to hike too (another party crasher). She has a brother who lives in Georgia, near the trail. Together, she and I traveled down, visited some sights with her brother and sister in law, and enjoyed their hospitality.
Diane and I at the Arch of the Approach Trail.On the Approach Trial. Amicalola Falls.
I was eager to join up with the rest of the girls, however and let this epic journey begin! Diane’s brother drove her and me to the Approach Trail arch. The building was under construction, so we had to sign in at a make shift trailer. Then we hit the trail. Amicalola Falls- fabulous. Such a beautiful majestic fall, but over 600 + steps to climb it! Approximately 8.5 miles and 600+ steps later, we made it to the top. After resting a bit there at a nice bathroom and picnic area, we continued on, hiking to the first white blaze of the trail and the AT plaque. Onward we went to the springer mountain camping area for the night.
Diane and I at the official southern terminus of the AT.
I should mention, the AT approach trail is really not a good idea for first time backpackers. I recommend you figure out your gear and get some practice in first! We met a dad and a son half way up this extremely challenging approach trail. The dad was already nursing his feet. They had lots of heavy gear. The son was probably in his early 20s and Dad, early 40s. We talked to them a bit and gave them some sock and shoe advice. They told us this was their first backpacking experience. They had 4 days and wanted to do something together. The Dad said he googled and you- tubed everything and bought the gear. They were food to go ( so they thought.)
A few miles later, we refilled our water, using our filters. Along came the guys. It was hot. They had no water left in their water bottles. But, they had a life straw. They would try that now, they said. We went on with questions on our faces- is that going to work? Are they going to make it? Diane and I had our doubts.
After we’d been to camp awhile, had tents set up and working on camp chores, along came the Dad- Son combo. They were tired, hot and thirsty! The Dad said the life filter wasn’t working – not enough water! We shared ours with them and filtered more near a stream at camp. Dad decided to call a shuttler to pick them up the next morning, but they said they would tough it out tonight. Good for them!
Diane and her duplex. My tent is behind hers. She is going to get water.
It started raining about 6 am early the next morning, with winds and thunder and lighting. When I ventured out of the tent, the guys were almost completely packed up. They’d gotten wet- the tent design didn’t work so well. He also had a cpap machine and 8 batteries he was carrying. He thanked us for our help. He gave me a mountain house breakfast he wasn’t going to fix and a whole role of toilet paper. We said our goodbyes. Diane and I hoped the father- son duo didn’t throw in the backpacking towel, so to speak.
We were to meet up the next morning with the rest of the group, the 2 Liz’s and Suzie, at the top of Springer Mountain at the first white blaze, so they too could experience the exhilarating moment of reaching the iconic southern terminus of the AT.
It was still raining- had been all morning. Diane and I hiked back about 1/2 mile to the blaze and waited. They were supposed to meet us at 10am. We waited and waited in the rain. Finally, we found out they didn’t get dropped off until 11:00am from the parking lot. We headed out and met them half way, took them to the starting blaze on Springer, then headed back on to Hawk Mt shelter.
4 of the 5 of us who hiked the first few miles of the southernmost portion of the AT. Diane not included – probably the photographer! Left to right Ginger, Suzie, Liz L, and Liz C.
The rain did not let up. By the time we finally got to the shelter, we had been walking through a trail flooded with cold water. It was like being in a trough that you couldn’t get out of. There were others in the shelter. Diane, and the 2 Liz’s stayed on the main floor with a couple of guys. Suzie and I opted for the loft, where there was a couple from Chattanooga. We took off our wet clothes and got in our sleeping bags to get warm.
The next morning, some of the girls wanted to get off trail and get dry. They were discouraged. We decided to get a ride into into Blairsville to a hotel. Diane called her brother and went home to Hiawasee with him. The 4 of us ordered pizza and washed clothes, hung out wet gear all over the room, warmed up and rested.
Laundered money? No, just trying to dry out everything.
That evening I shared with the girls what I believe the Lord gave me to help us stay focused and overcome the circumstances, in this case, the rain! I got this motto :
“Persevere. Do not fear. I AM here!”
Bandanas for breast cancer awareness One of our very nice shuttle drivers
That motto has stuck with me, because I know if I don’t quit, I’m gonna make it, because the Lord is my Helper!
The girls and I prayed that night and re-committed our lives to the One Who would help us, because He is here with us! Jesus Christ.
The next day, 4 of us shuttled back to the trail. Diane would join us again in a few days. We hiked on to Gooch Shelter.
Gooch shelter was a nice area. Good campsites, a shelter with a loft and covered picnic table and 2 bear vaults to put your food bags in. And don’t forget the privy! Water wasn’t far away either. We had a fairly good nights sleep, although it was windy. I heard a big crash not far away in the middle of the night. I thought maybe it was deer running through the forest . The next morning, we talked with a couple there while we all gathered around under the shelter to have breakfast and coffee. The couple said a large branch fell out of a tree right next to where their hammocks were! Also at the shelter was a couple who were finishing up a section hike. He was a fireman and she was an oncologist, from Arizona, I believe. That perked up mine and Liz C ‘s ears. Liz was the one who had won the fight against breast cancer. They talked and talked.
For the trip, I had bought special breast cancer awareness bandanas and had given to each of our hiking group. I had a couple left. I gave one to the oncologist. She was thrilled! Who knew Liz would get to share her experience and her faith that brought her through her ordeal right there on the trail? That was a God set up! Both ladies were encouraged and helped and maybe others listening in also.
Liz L felt like she was done. ☹️😥
Her Achilles tendons were acting up. She thought she was getting tendinitis. She hiked with us to Woody Gap and shuttled back to her car.
Liz C leading the way to our next camp.
Liz C, Suzie and I carried on.
It was a beautiful day, as we hiked up a mountain and saw Preacher’s rock. As we enjoyed the view on the cliff where we stood, a head popped up before us- some guy was climbing up from below the cliff. He asked us if we wanted to go see a nest of baby copperheads. There was a rattlesnake down there too. We said no thanks! He went ahead down the trail. Soon we caught up with him. He was poking at a big copperhead when we arrived, just off the trail with a big stick. We quickly made a wide birth around. This guy was snake 🐍 crazy!

Suzie and Liz C at ledge where snake boy appeared
We had a nice hike and no rain to Lance Creek campsite. No one else was there. We hung our food bags after supper on the bear cables and got some sleep.
The next morning, we were planning to hike up and over Blood Mountain into Neels Gap. We quickly changed our plans, however, when Liz C felt nauseous when she got up and started vomiting. We called a shuttle to meet us at the next trailhead, which was 3.4 miles away. Liz had trouble. She became disoriented. Liz couldn’t move very fast and had to rest. We’d been flooding her with electrolyte supplements since she’d been awake. We decided to split up. Suzie stayed with her while they rested and I took off for the trailhead where our shuttle driver was patiently waiting. I told Suzie if she got any worse to call 911. Then I lost signal. I had a mile an a half to get to the shuttler and he was on a time limit. Once I arrived, I gave him my pack and told him what was going on. He said he’d wait. Thank you, Mr Anderson!
I came back for the other two. Meanwhile Liz began to feel better. They left her pack on the trail and Suzie and she made it finally to the trailhead. I went back for Liz’ pack. The shuttler, Mr Anderson drove us to Neel’s Gap. I had called Liz L to come pick up Liz C. She was already driving north but came back and got her. She was feeling much more herself by this time. I told her to get checked out at the emergency room. In spite of the challenges, Liz C was able to hike 25 miles with us for her 25th anniversary, and we were grateful. Liz L hiked just a few miles less. But, Suzie and I weren’t finished yet!
Lance Creek camp
Suzie and I stayed overnight at Blood Mt cabins and regrouped. They did our laundry for us but it wasn’t ready until 11am the next day, so got a late start. It was nice though, to rest up, take a shower and eat pizza! I had a resupply box there. We headed out and saw beautiful views, up and down the mountains. The views were breathtaking but our favorite was on the way to the shelter. We took a side journey, a blue blaze, to Whitney Gap shelter. It was 1.4 miles off the AT but we knew we couldn’t go the distance to the next shelter with the time remaining. We saw fresh bear scat for the first time! We were a bit scared. Once we arrived at the shelter, the Boy Scouts we had met at Nell’s Gap were bedded down for the night in the shelter. The leaders were up, tending the fire and attempting to dry the wet clothes over the fire with lines strung like a clothes line. They generously offered to fill our water, which we gladly accepted.
On our way to Whitney Gap
It was dark once we got tents up. It was way after 7 pm. We sat down at the picnic table near the fire and the line full of clothes. As usual, it rained on and off all day. I wanted something quick and easy, but warm for supper. I had a packet of powdered eggs and some spam. When I went to rehydrate the eggs, I saw I had bought the wrong thing. This was a packet that was equivalent to 24 eggs, 🥚 like you would add to other ingredients. I spooned out a couple of tablespoons and added water. Yuck! 🤢 They were horrible! Suzie offered her mustard. With that and the spam they were somewhat edible. It was the worst meal ever. 🚫 🥚 I have thankfully improved on my skill making backpacking meals since!😂
Suzie and I really begin to see some beautiful views nowOn our way to Whitney gap shelter. Stunning sunset! So worth it!
It stormed most of the night. We waited until 9 am to pack up, thinking that the rain was about over. However it rained all day. We were soaked most of the day. We hiked back up out of the gap and to the next shelter. We arrived about 2:30pm there, thinking we would just eat lunch and move on. However, I was ready to get out of the rain. I looked at Suzie, and she agreed. We were done for today! We enjoyed watching it rain and not being in it!
A group of younger Boy Scouts, Jr high age and younger, came to the shelter and the camping area- probably 20 in all. We got a kick out of watching them horse around, set up their tents and hammocks and fix and eat suppers, playing Star Wars, etc all in the rain. One older guy with a brace on his leg, a scout leader, stayed in the shelter with us, along with a section hiker.
Watching the “kids” while we were dry in the shelter
The next morning , I got my food bad down from the bear cables. It was drowned. One inch of water stood on the bottom of the bag. My lighter was in the bottom of the bag, floating. I had to borrow Suzie’s to light my stove.
We felt better and hiked more miles in mostly sunny skies, up to Blue Mountain Shelter. It was a long climb up but very rewarding. It has a nice tenting area and shelter. We were able to string up our food bag lines and makeshift a clothesline where we hung our tents for a couple of hours before we set them up.
The evening was amazing. It was a very meaningful and spiritual evening. Two thru -hikers came through and spent the night with us. The first came up while Suzie and I were eating our evening meal at the shelter. He was a doctor, southbound, finishing up his thru hike. He would meet his wife at Springer Mountain and hike down with her. He was a Christian and shared his testimony with us.
Gorgeous views on the way to Blue Mt shelter
Not long after, another sobo thru hiker came in, carrying a small guitar. We had church! We sang hymns and contemporary Christian worship songs. We even sang some original songs the guitarist, whose trail name was Wind song, composed and one of mine too. We prayed together and ended our night. The bear cables were broken and I saw no good trees to hang our food bags. The doctor volunteered to watch them for us, hanging them in the shelter.
🐁 The next morning, the Doc apologized. He said a mouse kept trying to get into my bag. He’d wack it with a broom, only for him to come back in a few minutes. Doc eventually fell asleep, and the mouse had a midnight snack, gnawing a hole in my food bag! 🐭 Doc felt bad, but it was ok. I knew better than to hang it in a shelter! It just gave me an excuse to buy a new bag next year-one that was waterproof and more rodent resistant!!
Trey Mountain sunset
Suzie and I headed out the next day to a large gap with parking and privys! Diane met up with us there with some trail magic- diet Cokes! We hiked together up Trey Mountain, which was quite an ascent! It was beautiful when we finally reached the top. On the way, Diane, who was in the lead, saw two cubs! Suzie and I missed them. We camped in an area where we could easily get out of our tents in the morning and watch the sun rise. Both sunset and sunrise are spectacular! There was a cool breeze that night but no rain! The stars were brilliant! It was a magnificent night.
Diane joins us once again
The next day, our final one, we hiked all the way down Trey Mountain, 11.5 miles to Dicks Creek Gap. We were picked up by Diane’s brother, who took us to the Hostel Around the Bend to check it out and get some souvenirs and pictures.
Iconic AT sign at hostel around the bend
This was the end of the trail for us for 2022. Suzie and I did 69 miles together. With the Approach trail too, I accomplished 77.5 miles! I was pleased. Time to go home. We may have feared but we persevered! He was there! Thank you, Lord! You were another to your Word. 💜 📖
WHHB came from of the Hoosier Hiker Backpacker’s Facebook page group. I like to think of us as their little sister. HHB was founded by Greg Ludlow,. This co-Ed group is a great bunch of hikers and backpackers who love to share their knowledge and advice. You will see some really cool stuff- gear hacks, hikes from all over the state and beyond. They are good with answering questions and getting you started with hiking and/ or backpacking.
This is where I got my start. I joined HHB in 2019 and did a lot of watching. I learned from them about trails- didn’t know there was a Tecumseh trail. I learned about Permethrin and ticks. I saw groups go hiking and some solo.
2019 was the year I did a lot of solo hiking and backpacking because I wasn’t brave enough to go with people I didn’t know and had never met. But I watched 👀 🏕️ 🥾 🥾
My camp on Indian Lake, first solo overnight!
After I completed my first ever Knobstone hike of the lower 46 miles, in September of 2019, I knew it was time to start a Womens group.
Really? I thought to myself. In praying about it, it seemed good to do. I wouldn’t have to hike alone anymore. I’d know some folks to hike with! If I started it as the Lord showed me to do, there would be like minded individuals who would come and enjoy the adventures together. Ok! I’ll do it.
Many great hikes with this group
In December, I messaged Greg Ludlow and told him I’d like to start a Womens group, and could I do it under HHB? Also, I would like to make it for 45 year old women and up. My reasoning was, who would like to hike with this 62,year old? Surely no young women would want to go slow and maybe do only6-8 miles a day? Greg said he’d get back to me after talking to his other administrators. He responded back, thatch could start the group, but don’t put an age limit on it. I said Ooooookkkkkk. Guess I won’t.
Our first group hike was January 2020. We began with our Turkey Run hike. This hike still remains a favorite today. I’ll share our Turkey Run State Park Ice Hikes:
2020 our first ice hike Not so icy 2021Ice hike 2022Some turn out! Turkey Run no ice hike 2023Super cold ice hike 2024Lots of ice 2025Very cold ice hike 2026
I set up hikes for each month. Brown Country State Park was in March. Just afterwards, COVID broke out and people had the need to get outdoors. Women of liked minded passions gathered together when we could, using wisdom concerning the pandemic, and hiked. We developed a great bond and continued to hike whenever we could. More and more came! We needed this! A chance to escape the responsibilities of home, even cities just for a few hours and enjoy the sounds and sights of nature and as a group of like-minded women. We’d start our hikes with prayer, and sometimes have devotions or testimonies, especially when we had our overnight backpacking trips.
This was a co-ed group hike at Brown County SP with HHB 2021
We found we loved to teach about backpacking. Soon we started having 101 backpacking events. State Parks and State Forests were enjoyed and explored together. We had 101 backpacking events at Bloodroot SF, Morgan Monroe State Forest and Yellowwood State Forest.
101 Backpacking event at Yellowwood State Forest
Each year we tried to hit up as many state parks as we could. We usually do the Tecumseh Trail in the spring then the Knobstone trail in the fall. We mix it up sometimes and add the Adventure Hiking Trail or the Adena Trace Trail.
Hiking the end before beginning 2021 Tecumseh Trail“Tent city“ at Yellowwood Youth Camp . Tecumseh hike
As the girls grew in their experiences and wanted to adventure out, some have hiked in other states and even Countries.
We decided to make our group a non- profit organization so we could do more. In 2021 we all started up our own Facebook page and became our own entity- little sister of HHB grew up. We still do events with HHB and work closely with Greg Ludlow on some events.
Fall picnic at Brown County 2023
Each fall we have an end of year picnic. We’ve been also honoring our veterans and fallen soldiers at that time with a special honor hike.
Every other year we have a special indoors winter 101 backpacking event where we pull out all the stops, have gear giveaways and prices.
101 backpacking seminar with “ Just Try” as special speaker 2025
We’ve had so many wonderful hikes and events together! It is so rewarding watching these ladies grow in their confidence and find new adventures.
If interested in becoming a fb member, please feel free to check out the Facebook page.
💜💜💜💜💜Thanks to all who have made this group so great. And most of all, to my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, for making this possible.💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜
