Trail Log #9: John’s Spring Shelter to 620 Road Crossing Trout Creek
I had a hard time waking up this morning. Last night I smacked my eye with a branch while gathering firewood. It wasn’t comfortable, but I can still see which I’m grateful for.
I marched down to the Mcaffees knob parking area just in time for a chance encounter with Mr Freeze from 4 pines hostel. He hitched me back to the hostel where I cleaned up myself, my laundry, and the last of a breakfast fritata courtesy of Thornberry. 4 Pines has been an institution on the trail as long as I’ve been walking it.
Blue Blaze Shortcut
After charging my power Bank I set out towards the Dragons Tooth, but not the normal way. I took the road walk to the Dragons Tooth parking to connect to the Appalachian Trail.
Rough terrain
At the junction I stopped for a snack, knowing the terrain ahead is brutal and I may not hit a good stopping point for a while. I had a friend protect me from bugs in exchange for some salt.
After a very strenuous walk on the ridge, a rollercoaster of anklebusters, I began switchbacking down. I met a section hiker named Saunter walking to Harper’s Ferry, and a local named Bilbo Baggins who hiked the trail in 93 and traveled with a dog named Buddy.
620 camping area
I walked down to the 620 trail crossing to camp and performed my nightly routine involving fire, bear hangs, and food, drying my clothes under a shade umbrella, and push-ups. I even got to eat mayapples in July and drink Dr Pepper. It’s quite remarkable what the locals have done to enhance this camping area.
Trail Magic and Bear Hang
Shortly before dark, Bilbo and Buddy came off the hill and chatted a bit about the Roosevelts and eminent domain and the possibilities that exist for a positive outcome even in a difficult situation.
Now with the fire as my companion, I finish second supper and wait for sleep to come.