Ash Gap was less than 1.5 miles from the top of Roan Mountain. It was also about 800 feet lower in elevation. The air was chilly but comfortable.
After crawling into my tent, I thought about what I'd learned so far in my first 30 days on the trail.
I've figured out how to stay focused on what I need to do to successfully reach Maine. At the same time, I feel I'm maintaining some balance by enjoying my surroundings and time with people.
In my first month of long-distance hiking, I've learned how to keep my energy up by consuming calories all day long. I'm trying to do a better job of recognizing the importance of getting the right kind of nutrition and not rely only on sugary snack bars.
I always knew the trail wasn't just a physical challenge, but now I'm experiencing that. Being away from my wife, family, and friends is difficult. Putting up daily with the discomforts of bad weather and an aching body make this hike as much an emotional challenge as a physical one.
Do I know it all now? Of course not, but it's starting to feel like I have the skills I need to go the distance.