“Every accomplishment starts with the decision to try.”
~John F. Kennedy
Hike from Bears Den Hostel, VA to David Lesser Shelter, WV
AT miles: 11.3
Ascent: 2139’
Descent: 1777’
Weather: sunny, warm, and much less muggy
High points: We entered West Virginia!
After a lovely pancake breakfast and a long talk with a woman I met last fall at a hiking class, I finished the last four up-and-down miles of the roller coaster. It was not easy hiking, but since the excess water on the trail from yesterday‘s deluge had disappeared, it was much easier than yesterday.
Then I saw an exciting sign — I just crossed into West Virginia! Since the AT goes through 14 states, there are only thirteen state line crossings. Crossing into West Virginia is a big deal!
Since leaving Front Royal I have had no views at all, epic or otherwise, so I really appreciated this nice view from Raven Rocks.
After leaving Virginia, the trail became downright gentle, with ferns and grassy woodlands and few rocks.
There were still occasional obstacles on the path, though!
After yesterday’s long and difficult hike, we decided to make today a short day. We stopped at the first shelter, about 11 miles north of the hostel. This shelter is amazing — it has a swinging bench and a picnic area!
All in all, a great day!
Today is a great day for a long walk in the woods!
Congratulations on making it to West Virginia! Party time!
🙂