Day 22-23

Day 22, 7.2 miles, Double Spring Gap Shelter at AT mile marker 196.0.  After chatting with everyone last night around the campfire, we decided the last 5 miles yesterday took there toll on some of us. We had a rolled  ankle, couple soar knees, shin splints and just plain tired. So instead of the 13.5 planed today, then only 4 into Newfound gap where we are all hitching into Gatlinberg, we decided on an easy 7.5miles today then only 10 tomorrow getting us to Gatlinberg in the early afternoon. The current plan is that we are getting up at 4:30, hiking the 3 miles to Clingmans Dome And catching the sunrise at the highest point on the AT. It's all uphill and will be in the dark but we have a group so should be fun. Will see if we actually do it but it sounds good right now. Gatlinberg was not in my schedule but numerous folks have said you will love it or hate it, but whatever you do, don't miss it...so I'm going for the night with everyone to see what the fuss is all about. :). Day 23, a whooping 3 miles, Gatlinberg TN. Well....we did not get up at 4:30 to see the sunrise. :) I heard the alarm go off and was waiting for someone in the shelter to make a move. It was very windy outside so was in no rush to get out if my sleeping bag. After 15 mins I rolled over and went back to sleep.  Everyone else had the same idea. It was an easy, but chilly, walk up to Clingmans Dome. It was a beautiful day and I got there by 1000. We decides to hike into town from there and do a 10 mile day tomorrow. By the time I got to the dome Dame Yankee and Valasiwolf had already got us a ride...which was great. We were checked in by 1125 and you may have seen the rest of the day on Facebook. :) Gatlinburg is interesting to say the least. It's like a hillbillie Disney world without the giant mouse and pantless duck. We had a fun day but I do not need to come back anytime soon...no offense to those who come here. :). Tomorrow we will hitch a ride back to the dome and continue on our way. 10 miles is scheduled which I will do as I need to pick up the boys on Friday.  In case you missed it, i posted a short video on Facebook I took walking along to give you an idea of what it is like walking along the trail. See you all soon.