Day 110 - Hello Darkness, My Old Friend (19/10/2016)

Without a headlamp, I slept in a bit this morning but still found myself carefully breaking camp in the dark. By 7, it was bright enough to walk so I set out for a camp store to get some food supplies since I was short a breakfast. This was also my last chance for postcards from Shenandoah.

While there I had a coffee, charged my phone and had several great conversations about the Trail, including one with Karen who kindly offered me a ride into Waynesboro tomorrow morning! Off I went, planning to take up that offer.

Water has been plentiful in Shenandoah despite a low rain season, so I haven't had to worry about that. The leaves are turning (fast!) and the weather is beautiful, if a bit warm. I wasn't in a hurry since I only had to cover 28 miles in two days.

Then at lunch I noticed there were no water sources for the next 11 miles. I had about a litre, which was enough to hold me over with a bit of rationing. The greater issue is that without a headlamp, I needed to cover 11 miles, load up on water, and find a campsite with enough time to cook and set up camp before dark.

Now I was in a hurry. I managed it, in the end, but only just. I had to pitch my tent in the dark. I'm not thrilled with my bear hang, but if a bear gets my food now, he won't be very satisfied and I can replenish tomorrow.

In the end it all worked out, though I did start to fear the possibility of trying to hike and find a campsite using my phone flashlight.

Tomorrow a short 8 miles and then a hostel stay in Waynesboro. A hostel! Hopefully a proper one.

Start: Lost Mountain

End: .3 or so before Calf Mountain Shelter*

Distance: 21.8 miles

* yes, I could have pressed on to here in a pinch - and would have - but let's not forget how much I dislike communal sleeping arrangements.