6/8-6/9/26- Days 8 & 9 Hot Springs

Made my way into Hot Springs, yesterday, 19.2 miles from Little Laurel Shelter. It was the longest stretch of nearly downhill hiking I’ve done, or can remember. Nothing much along the trail to take pictures of. There’s a few rocks and an occasional view of surrounding mountains through the trees, but not much. Early in the day, I did visit the Southern Cookie Lady to enjoy a peanut butter cookie and a plate of fresh cut watermelon.

Hot Springs was kind of a sad place. It was severely damaged by hurricane Helene and still hasn’t recovered. It is considered a trail town as the AT goes right along the main drag. Most businesses are still closed, but everyone here appreciates the hikers, as it’s their main business.

While in town, I managed to complete my food resupply for the next 6 days, get my broken trekking poles fixed and got new insoles for my hiking boots. So with luck, my equipment will get me the next 275 miles.

Tomorrow, I head south through the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. It should take me 6 or 7 days  to go the 100 miles  to my next rest day.  I’m looking forward to all the special views, in the park, so I hope to start having more pictures to share.

Until tomorrow, Whistler out.