The mountain of the day is Standing Indian Mountain. This mountain, at 5,499, is the highest point of the AT south of the Smoking Mountains. Luckily, the AT doesn't go to the top. However you can take a blue-blazed side trail to reach the summit. Guess what our fearless folks did...yep, they hiked to the top.
Ken took a video with his phone and sent it to me. The resolution was bad and it was upside down. I'll work on trying to flip it and clean up the resolution. If I can, I'll add it to the post. If not, you will have to image the majestic scenery of a 360 degree view. The cliff-top views have the nickname "Grandstand of the Southern Appalachians."
Ken had a little better cell signal today and was able to talk for a few minutes before it cut out. He sounded very tired and said they all are doing well but it was a very exhausting day. They were hiking along and saw a huge mountain to their right. They were SO glad they didn't have to climb it when the trail took a turn and they had an "Oh NO!" moment when they started heading right for it!
This is actually still Standing Indian Mountain. What they didn't realize was that once they came to the summit from the west, the trail looped down and around and they are heading back to it. From looking at aerial trail maps, it appears they will round the summit on the east at a slightly lower elevation.
I'm sure they will be glad when this beast of a mountain is truly behind them.
They stopped for the night at Carter's Gap and hope to break into the 100 Mile club tomorrow.
Mile 93.9
Elevation 4,540
Bet they love hiking down hill :)
ReplyDeleteKim and Ken. I am enjoying this blog very much. I can't wait to see every day what you have posted! A gal that I used to work with, that recently retired, has walked part of it, and is very enthralled by it. I sent her the address so she can read along. I also have another friend who has also walked part of it, and also shared with her. Way to go Ken for following thru on this journey! My BIG bucket list thing is to see The Northern Lights in person! Gotta make that happen! Love to you both! Rene'
ReplyDeleteThanks, Rene'! My son now lives in Fairbanks and sees them almost every night. I hope to visit him soon and see them, too.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Rene'! My son now lives in Fairbanks and sees them almost every night. I hope to visit him soon and see them, too.
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