Day 126, October 26: It’s cold out here and I have a plan!

Day 126, 26-Oct. Milepost: 1532.5 miles,  Daily: 21.2, Ascent: 4895′, Descent: 4870′, Highest: 4125′. Camp: Bailey Gap Shelter. Jefferson National Forest, 3515′.

Departed camp at 5:30am by headlamp with plan to hike 21 miles to Bailey Gap Shelter. Chilly wind blew strong as I ascended two ridges, the second at 4100′. Hiked through two wilderness areas and a tedius 5-mile, rocky segment.  Temperature fell to 40 degrees in late afternoon.  Arrived at Bailey Gap Shelter in 12 hours 15 minutes. COLD!

Sunrise after I descended the ridge from camp.

With temperature dropping in Virginia I am happy that I will receive in two days an Alpaca hoody and a sleeping bag liner to give it 10 degrees more comfort. I have already started wearing wool socks during the day. For my hands I have silk liners to add to my layered glove collection. The best addition will be a Neo Air X-Therm sleep pad that will make nights much warmer. There will be more to come!

I just need to average 15 miles per day to reach the end of the AT by December 15. I am actually doing better than that. The high elevation of 6,000 feet in the Great Smokey Mountains National Park will challenge me with colder temperatures. I am confident the additional gear will help get me through!

Celebrating after climbing the first of two ridges.

The source of water I needed for camp 5 miles farther up the trail.
Rocky, like Rocksylvania!
Nobody else is camping at Bailey Gap Shelter besides me.
All set for the night.

8 thoughts on “Day 126, October 26: It’s cold out here and I have a plan!”

  1. Glad to hear about the mice; I was wondering about that. Stay strong; this is such an accomplishment. Take care.

  2. You appear to be doing well with your overall schedule and equipment planning. I’m thinking that your expert planning will ultimately see you through to success!

  3. Alpaca is wonderful. My favorite fiber. Stay warm and come home safe.

  4. WELL done!!!
    Can’t wait to share a hot toddy with you and Cindy when you get back to Oregon!
    Drinks on me!
    Bonnie

  5. My good wishes for a continuous successful journey. I admire your strength and courage. Stay safe.

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