Shakedown Day 6, Whitley Gap to Low Gap

Thursday, June 23, 2016

Because we had hiked an extra distance yesterday to reach a reliable water source, we were closer to our pickup point the day after tomorrow than originally planned. This meant we had to parse our hiking for today and tomorrow to shorter distances than we would normally want to go.

Thursday, June 23, 2016

Weather	Hot, muggy
Trail Conditions	Drier and dustier
Today's Miles	4.8 miles
Trip Miles	51.5 miles

Though that was fine for having a relaxing two days, it also meant I wasn't getting in the miles that I will normally be hiking when I begin my thru-hike attempt next year.

I reminded myself this hike isn't for me, it is for the boys, and all is good.

An added bonus for hiking short distances is we didn't have to make an early start this morning.

We also had time to hike at a more leisurely pace on our way to Low Gap Shelter. This gave us a chance to take in an excellent view from the side trail leading from Whitley Gap back to the AT.

After descending to Hogpen Gap we found the trail to be easy. The climbs were not long and not steep.

This portion of the trail travels through Mark Trail Wilderness Area, which is the only wilderness area named for a cartoon character.

The slow pace also allowed me time to take a few pictures, including this Virginia Spiderwort.

Most of the hiking today was in the "green tunnel" that the Appalachian Trail is known for.

At the end of each day I have tried to clean up. Or at least, I attempted to wash off as much of the dust and sweat of the day as I could. Even with today's short hike, my legs were covered in dirt.