Slack packing Bliss

We left Franklin NC and got back on the trail. But going into Franklin out of Rock Gap, we met a new hiker friend, Jeff from Cinncinnati. He did not have a trail name yet.  Decaf and I plus Beep and Jeff all stayed at the same hotel. Beep's mom and sister brought him back to the trail after he had to go home for a short spell. They had a car and shuttled us to the Walmart for re-supply and took us where we needed to go. It was great to meet them after hearing about them from Beep. 

Back on the trail, Jeff has gotten his trail name. He is now Masters (as in golf). We are currently at the Nantahala  Mountain Lodge, the absolute best stay on the AT.  It is so nice with great showers, breakfasts and dinners. But the best part of all is the slack packing, which is taking only a daypack with just water and lunch then being picked up and brought back to the lodge. That happened today which was incredible compared to carrying 30 lbs on your back. Plus you come back to a hot shower. Awesome. Then tomorrow morning we will be shuttled to where we stopped today. Result: same mileage covered with way less weight. The best. 

Here are some pics to catch up...

Decaf at Wayah Bald

Glowing moon rock.  Not really. 

Not sure what these are. 

At Nantahala Mountain Lodge

Greening up

A close-up of the picture above. How hikers make a steady water stream with a leaf and rock to hold it in place.