April 1, 2016 - Day 14

The day started off in Franklin, NC with a huge breakfast provided by the First Baptist Church.  This amazing group of people start serving breakfast every morning for AT hikers beginning on the first day of Spring in March and continue until mid-April.  This is the time when most Thru-Hikers begin and they provide a welcome meal to help them on their journey.


They have been doing this for many years and have each year's signature poster on display.  Ken, Jill (IWOX) and Dennis (Southpaw) all signed for the 2016 season.  The room was packed with hikers and everyone was in great spirits.

Ken and IWOX at Franklin Breakfast

IWOX and SPICY, with Patsy Parker, getting some Trail Magic
(breakfast) from the great volunteers at First Baptist Church
 

With their tummies full, Russell took them back to the trail and sent them on their way.  





 

 

They hiked about 9 miles to Wayah Bald (elevation 5,342) where there was a stone observation tower.  Ken took a video to share with us:

 

They hiked another 3 miles and made it to Licklog Gap. It rained during the day and his text that night said he was cold, wet and hungry.  I didn't want to tell him neighbors/friends were here from Chicago and we were having chicken breast, mashed red skin potatoes, corn/peas, broccoli salad and warm apple and cherry pies!  That would have been too much torture for someone who had a supper of a protein bar and whatever else he could find.

 

Mile 122.1

Elevation 4,440