Another try at the Smokies

• Day:  19
• Start:  206.8
• End:  221.9
• Miles:  115.1
• Hours:  7
• High temp:  76
• Low temp:  50
• People met:  16

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The forcast today is for sunshine! Happy about that. Got a good breakfast at Crockett's with Onthego, BooBoo and Chuckles.  We hopefully have a ride at 0830, fingers crossed.  Our ride showed up and we were joined by two others.  In short order and $5 lighter we start at the New Found trailhead.  Gatlinburg's morning temperature is 50.  We figure by the time we are on the trail the temperature will.be lower perhaps 40. Nope temperature is still 50. The skys are clear the temperature is perfect and the trail is drying. 

 

Chuckles startling out

 

Not as far as it used to be

This mornings trail

The conifers and moss continue to be a major presence in these mountains, creating a splendid mountain feel. Rapidly the forest heats up causing the scents to bloom.  I am surprised at the spirit lifting cornucopia of scents that drift my way. There are more scents than fir, some pungent, some sweet, I am not putting the scent with the particular foliage, but thats ok it's still wonderful.  Views start to appear, I'm so happy there are views.

 

My first view

 

Another smile making view

In a while I arrive at Charle's Bunnion. 

 

Me at the Bunnion. The view is Tennessee to the west. 

BooBoo and Onthego 

Regardless of the fact I'm sweating like a drayage animal pulling a full wagon I am so happy today. There are views, actual views and the forest feels so comfortable to be in. 

 

 

Trying to illustrate the extreme drop off over the side of the trail. 

The trail tops out on a knife edge, a section where both sides of the trail drop away to a very steep slope. Then another knife edge and another followed by more. This has become the best trail. 

 

 Knife edge

 

Another knife edge

 

 

Lunch spot

 

 

 

Tonight's shelter, Tri Corner Knob Shelter

Met Goliath on the trail when almost to the Tri Corner Knob Shelter. We walked in together to an empty shelter, promptly choosing our spots on the top level.  There are two springs here and a privy, luxury. Wonderful end to a great hiking day.  I never mentioned, when in the Smokies we are required to sleep at the shelters or tent there. There is no free camping wherever one wishes. Consequently I've become used to.sheltering, I know unbelievable. The other rule we must follow is be through the park in 7 days, there will be no lingering.