Day 37 (Monday, May 19th) - 380.6 campsite to Elk River 398.3

Today's Miles: 17.70
Trip Miles: 398.30

Keep on walkin'

We got up early and headed for US19E the road into Roan, TN. We wanted to get a little resupply and
a bite to eat of real food. The trail took us over Little Hump and Hump Mts, two balds with excellent panoramic views. Both were very steep and the Hump had a false summit that broke your heart. You think you're done, but you're not. Again, the agony was worth the ecstasy with an expansive open view.

We met Yvanna and Andi as we headed up the larger Hump. Andi had been sick for the past two days. They were thinking of stopping at a hostel for a break. We invited them to drive into D.C. if we all end up near Pearisburg together. Andi's brother works and lives there. We'll see what happens.

Leaving NC

Many more people are on the trail today with trail days over. Saw lots of hikers many of whom we do not know. People we've gained miles on by forgoing the event.

We hustled down the often rock strewn path toward US19, passing Doll Flats, the TN/NC border. No more trail in NC; next stop VA. It was 2.3 miles to the road and we just about ran it. We got there at 11:30. 11.2 miles in four hours, not too bad considering the terrain.

We hitched into town. M and N got a ride who then picked me up. Thanks, blue Ford Ranger. We Went immediately to Bob's Dairyland which also serves BBQ. We all got the special; pulled pork sandwich, fries, (Natalie got cheese fries) slaw, beans and a drink. Then we all got milkshakes. We re-upped our endless refill drinks and talked with the locals who were all interested in our hike. Very nice folks with lots of questions. One couple gave Natalie ten dollars for ice cream money and wouldn't let her say no.
Very sweet people.

Buh-bye, NC!

We went up the road to Dollar General, but the options there were limited. A man in line offered us a ride back to the trail. Thanks for the ride.

We hiked another five miles to Jones Falls, and a half mile beyond found a beautiful site by the Elk River. We ate, talked a bit, now to bed.

Night all.  

Jones Falls

Wash Day

Elk River trail