Nimblewill Nomad
Long Distance Hiker/Author
Journal 46-ODYSSEY 2021: Bama to Baxter-Hike On!
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Tuesday–April 6, 2021
Trail Day–046
Trail Mile–11.2/476.9
Location–Addis Gap, mm63.7
After a fine supper at Ingles deli in Hiawassee, Rick Harris (now supporting me) delivers me to Around the Bend Hostel
, just down the road from Dick’s Creek Gap.
At the hostel I was greeted by owners, Gordon & Lisa Simmons, and Bear, their shuttle driver. Cabin #2, a fine setup, all whiz-bang new, as is most all the hostel facilities. I lingered, got to know Gordon and Lisa. Like many hostel owners, they both have successful careers. Yet they find time to aid and support the hiking community. The personal resources they’ve poured into Around the Bend Hostel, their time and energy–blessing to us all. Thanks, Gordon & Lisa!
Promptly at eight, Lisa has me (and other hikers) loaded in the hostel’s new passenger van, and she shuttles me around the mountain to Unicoi Gap. I’m climbing at 8:30. This section of the AT, from Unicoi Gap to Dick’s Creek Gap, is rated one of the most difficult in Georgia. Climbing, climbing, and more climbing, I quickly find out why. Leaving Unicoi I’ve over a one-thousand-foot gain in elevation in a mile. Slow going for sure.
But the payoff? Amazing vistas; striking scenery–well worth the effort; the beginning of another day in the life of this long-distance hiker!
Today, the AT passes along the Swag of the Blue Ridge, a very narrow (steep both sides) ridge; a unique and fascinating place.
Late afternoon I reach Addis Gap, where I pitch for the night. Another tiring but enjoyable hiking day…
God wishes to see people happy
amidst the simple beauty of nature.
(Anne Frank)
3 Comments on “Journal 46-ODYSSEY 2021: Bama to Baxter-Hike On!”
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Nimblewill Nomad 
You are doing fantastic, thanks for keeping us updated!
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I love reading your daily updates- especially hearing about the trail and people you meet. I imagine it’s a bit different blogging from your tent in 2021 vs. 1998! Hopefully in a couple years I’ll retire and follow you…
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Thinking of you and sharing your story with my hiking friends.
Sweet dreams in God’s wilderness and happy hiking tomorrow!
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