I realized earlier this month, that I hadn't hiked with the Traildames (http://www.traildames.com/), in almost 3 months, so I decided to go on one of SHOE's AT hikes. I have done this section several times, but that was ok, I NEEDED to get out on the trail. I pulled into Woody Gap around 9:00 to meet the dames who were driving up from Gwinnett, and within a few minutes, everyone showed up. On this hike were Hemlock, April, Nanci, Tina, Leah, Leah, Brenda, Mandy, Leslie, and me. We left most of the cars at Woody Gap, split up into 2 SUV's, and headed down FS 42 to Gooch Gap. They had gotten some snow in the area, so it was a slow drive, but it was nice to catch up with everyone.
We made it to Gooch Gap and headed up the trail. Joan led the hike because SHOE was sick, Brenda volunteered to sweep, and we were off. There was about a 1/2 inch of snow on the ground, it was around 30 degrees, but the wind was blowing something fierce. Thank goodness, everyone was prepared for the cold...everyone had on sufficient layers. We stopped for the obligatory pre-hike pictures, and off we went. Nothing spectacular to report on the hike...it was cold, it was snowy, the views of the mountains off in the distance were great, but it was too cold to stop and enjoy, so we hiked on.
I could really tell the difference in my stamina on this hike. Now, granted, the hills are nothing outlandish for the AT on this section, but I made it up the 2 biggest climbs without stopping to catch my breath. I think the running program will be great to help me handle the climbs better. We made it to Woody Gap around 12:15, said our goodbyes, and headed home. Supposedly we hve a big winter storm coming in, so I needed to stop at wallyworld for a few groceries on the way home.
It was great to see my friends again, hiking with the 'dames is always good for the soul.
Until next time.....
You have to have confidence in your ability, and then be tough enough to follow through- Rosalyn Carter.
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