Arrived today at the Top of Georgia Hostel for an opportunity to shower, do laundry, and sleep in a bunk. So far, I have covered 78 miles over 7 days, or roughly 11 miles a day.
I have met all kinds of hikers on the trail ranging from 20 year-olds to one 76-year old woman. Everyone seems nice. There are quite a few internationals. I’ve met several Germans, two Danes, a Swede, a Belgian, and an Aussie.
The weather has been colder than I expected – in the 30s and 40s in the mornings, warming to the 50s and 60s in the afternoons. The trees are not budding out yet, probably due to the elevation. So far, the trail has hovered around 3500 feet, mostly staying between 3000 and 4000 feet.
The first four days were overcast and foggy, followed by three glorious sunny days.
Foggy day on the mountain
Ice on the trees
American Holly (in ice)
Better weather at last
To pass the time, I plan to pursue some hobbies on the trail – birding, lepidopterology, photography – or any combination thereof. Here is my best accomplishment so far on the trail as a birder and lepidopterist.
Barred Owl
Tiger Swallowtail
Luna Moth
Here are some experimental shots using a cheap macro lens that clips onto my iPhone.
In the morning, I will be hitting trail again heading north. By tomorrow evening, I will be pitching my tent in North Carolina. Georgia, I hardly knew ye!
This is so interesting, Randy! I will enjoy following your adventures.
The Diljaks are enjoying your pictures. Now I know what a lepidopterist is.
Pictures are great and I hope weather improves to your liking. Miserable temps here and gloomy
Love the photo of the “Foggy day on the mountain”.