McAfee Hikes

Date Written: 11/11/2024 | AT Mile 1663.0 | Day Total: 0.0 miles | Gain: 0 ft

Woke up around 6:30 to rain pouring down on the shelter. Luckily it’s bone dry in here which is really nice. Taking my time I made some breakfast and packed up. I walked back over to the Mt Roger’s headquarters to get a ride.

The headquarters is closed today because it’s Veterans Day. There’s none cell service here but there is a phone on the wall outside that still works. I tried calling the outfitter but it went to voicemail. Figured that may happen because they are not open yet.

I tried to hitch a ride into Marion for 30 min with no luck. Roads are pretty quiet, 20 cars probably passed me over that time and most of them are probably heading into work.

I went back to the bench and phone by the headquarters and waited until 10am when the outfitter opened. I gave them another call and I was able to get a shuttle from Carrie! She dropped me off I’m right outside Marion Outfitters. Oddly enough the owner from Woodshole hostel was parked outside! She was heading back to the trail to clear more blowdowns. She was jumping with excitement and seemed very happy to help the trail recover from Helene.

After stopping in the outfitter I was directed to the hostel upstairs. Bunny showed me around and I settled in. I showered and started laundry and caught up with things online.

I went to Macado’s right next door for lunch. I had a massive delicious burger. Probably the best I’ve had in trail so far!

Between the resupply downstairs in the outfitter and a few things from the gas station I was able to get a good resupply. I was also able to do a darn tough sock exchange! One of the pairs had developed two small holes around the ankle.

I relaxed this afternoon and walked around town. Also worked on uploading a few journals. I ordered a pizza from the stone fire place down the street. I setup the first harry potter movie before hand so I could be a couch potato when I got back.

Next resupply is going to be in Damascus. I’ll probably have to road walk the last ~20 miles. The Handsaw Boys are still making their way south with continuous footsteps bouncing in and out of the roads and trail. I’m probably going to give the roads a shot but if it becomes too boring or dangerous then I’ll shuttle down to the smokies where it’s open.