Day -5 - Monday, July 30, 2018

Swaim Gap  to Blue Mountain Shelter. 15.9

It rained last night but the weather was good today.   No significant climbs today.  The trail was somewhat overgrown and the blow downs were in the hundreds.  Spills (aka Steve) developed a neck issue today and is planning to get off the trail in the morning.   I will have two big climbs tomorrow including Tray Mtn. Today was day two of the soreness.   

Day -6 - Sunday - July 29, 2018

Lance Creek to Swaim Gap - 10.1 Miles

Blood Mtn Shelter

Jarrard Gap

Weather was again very nice.  We hiked Blood Mtn early this morning.   We stopped at Mountain Crossing for an extended lunch.  As for getting my trail legs, the soreness isn’t too bad.  I’m having a little foot pain but it is manageable.  I worked hard on the climbing aspect today trying to not stop and controlling my breathing.  Shorter day but more aches in pains.  Looking forward to a good night’s rest.  

Day -7 Saturday, July 28, 2018

Cooper Gap to Lance Creek Campsites - 11.7 Miles

Great weather,  Lisa drove us up to the trail arriving at around 10 am.  The trail was smooth with some climbing (which is what I need to get my trail legs).  Both Steve and I finished strong but tried.  Soaked feet and took vitamin I.  Looking forward to a good night sleep.   Tomorrow morning is Blood Mountain.  

Steve and I at the trailhead

Rylee watching us head down the trail, wondering why she wasn’t invited 

Day -8 - Friday, July 27, 2018

Pack ready to go at 32.7 lbs.  with 3 liters of water and 5.5 days of food.

Prep Day - Heading to Springer Mtn in the morning.

Plan is to re-hike GA over the next 6 days in preparation for the trip back to the NE on Friday, August 3.   I will be hiking the GA section with my good friend Steve Howell.  Lisa will pick us up on Thursday, August 2 before my flight on Friday.  I'm experiencing a lot of emotion and feeling today as I prepare.  From the normal "Am I ready?" to the thought of being away from Lisa and family so long and finally to the excitement of the adventure ahead.  I will attempt to post daily until I finish but note that I have been told that cell coverage is spotty in NH and ME so the post may not be uploaded everyday.