Mar 18

DAY #16
START LOCATION: Wayah Shelter
FINISH LOCATION: Wesser Bald Shelter
TODAY'S MILEAGE: 10.6
TRIP MILEAGE: 129.3
MILES TO GO: 2,049.8

Of the 9 people this morning, Scruffy was out first at 9:15 and I was
out last at 9:45. I took my time with the moderate 10 miles today and
the Nero tomorrow... I'm trying not to push my body with the toughest
30 miles coming up after the NOC. I was gladly surprised with the
terrain and the weather... Not the obscene sidesloping snow from
yesterday. It warmed up really well today too. I caught Scruffy and
Sofa for lunch at Cold Spring Shelter... I was surprised to hear that
they were pushing all the way to A. Rufus Morgan which would amount to
15 miles. Those last 5 was steep downhill and after 10, I knew my
dogs would be barkin'.

Had a great view on top of Wesser Bald observation tower. I was able
to see nearly all of the Smokies ahead of me. Unfortunately, Clingmans
Dome, the highest elevation of the AT, was clearly crushed with snow.
That was a bummer but I knew it already from word of mouth anyway. In
any case, it was awesome to be able to see the Smokies and the 7 days
of hiking ahead of me... That's a first this trip. Saw my buddy Smiley
and his pops on Wesser too. Smiley is a young sectioner out for a few
days. He gave me one of his caramel brownies last night at Wayah, so I
owe him one.

We'd heard there was a scout troop ahead dominating Wesser Bald
Shelter so I was thrilled when I arrived and there were only 3 thru
hikers here. Weather is awesome tonight... Cool and crisp. Good sleep
would be nice... But ok if not... After a nice downhill 5.7 tomorrow,
I've got a $17 bunk and shower at NOC tomorrow. Sweet.

-n8dog

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