Hiked 20.7 miles today!

   Red Bull hiked to No Business Shelter at mile 335.9 on the A.T. (he hiked 20.7 miles today)!  Amazing!

   We are going to meet him in Erwin, Tennessee tomorrow.  He has asked for us to bring his second hiking pole, and his second pair of hiking shoes.

online stock photo

   I was checking on The Appalachian Trail Conservancy for updates in Tennessee.  They have issued a bear warning around the Watauga Dam, and have closed the Watauga Lake Shelter at 428.7.  See excerpt below:

Tennessee

Watuaga Dam - Bears Active in Area
(5/17/16) Hikers should use caution near Watauga Dam as bears are active in this area; hikers should be alert for and keep a respectful distance from bear(s) with cubs. 

Watuaga Lake Shelter - Closed
(4/15/16 - present) Watauga Lake Shelter closed to all entry due to bear activity.

No picnicking, lingering or overnight camping. Hiking the Appalachian Trail only. BEARS ACTIVE IN THIS AREA. Please continue through the area without stopping. Closure Order: National Forest System lands Oliver Hollow Rd. to Wilbur Dam; closed until further notice.

TN - Appalachian Trail has re-opened from USFS 293 to Dennis Cove - Moreland Gap Shelter open
(4/25/16) The A.T. is now open from USFS 293 to Dennis Cove. The wildfire that the USFS was dealing with, known as the "Railroad Grade" fire, is out. Hikers should remain situationally aware of potential threats along the Trail.  For more information about this wildfire, see InciWeb.