I started at Watauga Lake. My shuttle driver, Donna had me almost to my start point when I realized that my phone was still mounted on my dash. Ugh. So we went back and came back to Watauga Lake! 3 times as much driving. I paid her double and filled her tank with gas. Expensive shuttle. Totally my fault. Oh well.

Then I finally got started. Good grief. I am sooooo out of shape. It was a grueling 5.5 mile uphill from the lake to over 4000 feet of elevation. With no views to be seen. The green tunnel for sure!

And finally a view!

I made it to the shelter. Met Daytona Mike! Had dinner. Crashed just before dark. Write a bit and slept straight through!

Day 1.

3/4 In.