Sunday Adventure with Leyla and Charlie

Midweek Hike with Maggie and Charlie

Lunch Trail Run

Morning Trail Run

Morning Run

Teepee Campsite to Springer Mountain.

Done. Whew. 

Final push and last predawn hike.   As I walked in the dark, I realized I was not alone on the trail.  Glowing eyes reflected in my headlamp.  I yelled and they simply blinked and got a little taller.   I turned my headlamp on high and started to play a podcast loudly on my phone.  The first one cued up was the Fastest Known Time Podcast with Buzz and regional editor Jack Kuenzle-- two strong male voices to keep me company and potentially scare my large feline friend away.  I moved forward and the eyes would occassionaly flash ahead of me.  After a 1/2 mile or so, I felt like I was alone again.  
Fun times on my last BMT morning.

I slogged through the rest of the day and tried to eat and drink. My pace felt glacial.  The best I could do food-wise was watered down honey stinger waffles 🤢 and tiny sips of water.  

And then, somehow, I was 4 miles away, and then at the end.

Selfie at the sign for the AT/BMT Springer junction.  Selfie at the Benton MacKaye Memorial.

I stumbled the mile to the Springer Mountain parking lot.  I was so happy to see Mary my shuttle driver. And, amazingly reached 5 minutes before the planned time of 6pm.  Surreal moment getting in the car and driving to Blairsville.  

Quick stop at Circle K for Sprite, Body Armor, chips and and prepackaged sandwich.  About as much celebratory dinner as a girl can handle.

The Comfort Inn and shower... priceless.

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Ella Bredthauer

Benton MacKaye Trail Day 9

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Sunday Adventure with Leyla and Charlie

Midweek Hike with Maggie and Charlie

Lunch Trail Run

Morning Trail Run

Morning Run

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