“The journey of a thousand miles begins with but a single step.”
~Lao Tzu
April 6, 2021
Iron Gap, TN to Damascus, VA
AT miles: 21.5
Ascent: 2018′
Descent: 3591′
Weather: Absolutely gorgeous! Sunny and mid-60’s
High points: Lots of wildflowers
Today I started my AT trek by hiking northbound from Iron Gap to Damascus. I am “slackpacking” this section, which means that I am hiking with just a daypack and the organizer transports my stuff — tent and food and miscellaneous— in a van. Since the AT is mostly downhill into Damascus we hiked this section northbound, though mostly I’ll be southbound.
Mostly the trail today was on a ridge line, and we could see views between the trees. Once the leaves come out there will be no views along the stretch, but today we got a real feel of being on top of a mountain almost continuously.
We saw lots of wildflowers. This is bloodroot, really striking against the brown leaves.
Today is a great day for a long walk!
Looks fun!! Happy Travels!
Following along with great interest! Happy to hear you are underway and having cooperative weather.