Journal 105-ODYSSEY 2021: Bama to Baxter-Hike On!

Posted on June 4, 2021 by nimblewillnomad

Friday–June 4, 2021
Trail Day–105
Trail Mile–-17.1/1,108.0
Location–VA-621, then to Four Pines Hostel, Catawba, Joe & Donna Mitchell, Proprietors, AT Mile 689.3

I’ve had a restful (and energy recharging) stay at Angels Rest Hiker’s Haven, the angels being Doc Peppa & Hot Tamale. Thanks for your kindness, dear friends!

Mountain Mike has a shuttle run to Peters Mountain trailhead before he does the long 45-minute drive to get us back to Rocky Gap. I’ve been hiking off and on the last few days with The Wiz and his sister, The Rage, also Steady Eddie. I’m pleasantly surprised that we’re on trail before nine-thirty.

Head down, dig the sticks in 1,000 feet of climbing first thing, up and over Kelly Knob. More beautifully blooming laurel and azalea. Ahh, and no shortage of sweet and red clover in the meadows.

There’s been plenty of ridge walking in Virginia so far, with that experience running from very pleasant to not so pleasant. We’ve both today–level, smooth tread, then steep, boulder heaps. The long, steep climbs–okay going for me now. The boulder heaps–not so much (but a good test of patience and determination). Late evening, we find Sprocket waiting for us at VA-621, to shuttle us to Four Pines Hostel where Joe and Donna Mitchell welcome us. Supper awaits–burgers, dogs, slaw, potato salad, and an iced down cooler of pop. I’ve been given the lower bunk in the far back corner of the bunkhouse. Perfect!