(Hot Springs, NC (mile 274.9) - Rich Mountain Campsite (mile 283.3))

AC and I left our Airbnb after breakfast. We stopped at Ingles and I picked up a 5 day resupply. After two days of clouds, rain, snow, and cold, the morning air held promise of good weather and as we made our way back to Hot Springs, the sun melted any remaining snow.

We made it to Laughing Heart Hostel around lunchtime and we ate leftover mole pork tacos and baklava ice cream in a small field near the hostel. The sun was warm, the food was good, and I felt happy.

After lunch, I packed my food and hoisted my newly resupplied pack onto my shoulders. AC walked with me through Hot Springs until we reached the edge of town, which is marked by a bridge over the French Broad River. We shared a bittersweet series of “see ya laters” and then I crossed the bridge.

The trail immediately took a sharp right and I found myself walking alongside the French Broad. After about a half mile, the trail took a sharp turn away from the river and I began the steep climb out of hot springs. The climb provided many fine views of Hot Springs and the French Broad below. After another half mile, I found myself at “Lover’s Leap Rock.” From the rock I could see the bridge where AC and I had just parted ways. I watched for a while, hoping to see AC’s black Subaru drive across the bridge, but I had no such luck. As I continued hiking, I spooked lots of lizards enjoying the sunny afternoon on trailside rocks.

Lover’s Leap Rock provided an excellent view of the bridge over the French Broad River

As I hiked along the ridge, I met a day hiker walking his dog. He asked if I was thru-hiking. When I answered “yes” he gave me a big grin, a fist bump, and explained that he was a thru-hiker in the “class of 2008!” He wished me luck and continued down the trail. Hopefully I can proudly label myself as a member of the “class of 2021” someday.

The wildflowers blooming around this spring made for a pretty sight

At mile ~280, the trail passed alongside a small but scenic dammed pond. The pond was flanked by benches and gave off the feel of a little secluded oasis. I’m not sure why the pond was made, but it was a pretty spot and I appreciated briefly walking along its bank.

After another mile, I reached Tanyard Gap where the AT passes over US Routes 25 and 70. I recognized the small overpass as one AC and I had driven under earlier that morning. I paused briefly and wondered if I would spot AC driving by. I quickly realized that she must have driven by long before I reached the gap. With a tinge of sadness, I hiked on.

Leaving Tanyard Gap, the trail begins a long gradual climb up Rich Mountain. As I made my way up the mountainside, a flash of blue caught my eye. Closer inspection revealed a bright blue bunny Peep sitting neatly atop a large log. I’ve always had a weakness for these sugar coated marshmallows, so after visually confirming the absence of any flesh eating bacteria, I did the only responsible thing and ate it. Trail magic never tasted so sweet😋

As I hiked on, I passed a young girl and her mother. We shared introductions and I learned that they went by the trail names “Supergirl” and “Supermom.” They explained that they are thru-hiking. Supergirl is 6. I was impressed.

After about 2.5 miles and approximately 1,250 feet in elevation from Tanyard Gap, I reached the side trail to Rich Mountain Fire Tower. I dropped my pack at the junction and made my way towards the fire tower. Along the side trail, I ran into Tracy and Cloudkicker who had set up their tent at a small campsite near the base of the fire tower. They explained that a few other hikers had hiked on to the next tentsite, which was my planned destination.

After appreciating some excellent views from the tower, I made my way back to the trail and quickly covered the 0.2 miles to the tentsite. To my surprise, I found the site vacant, but it was late and I was tired, so I quickly set up. Fortunately, I was able to hang my new bear line without any hiccups. Afterwards, I eagerly dug into the leftover homemade pizza that I had packed out from the Airbnb. Easily the best meal I’ve had on trail🤤

For dinner, I packed out half a pizza that AC and I made the day before. Hands down my best meal on trail!

As I retired to my tent, I felt proud of the pace I set today. In a little over 3 hours, I hiked just under 9 miles. Not too shabby🏃