Tim and I started the day with a light breakfast at the hotel. Then we were off and running. It really seemed like we only had a few things to do but the day flew and before we knew it the day was coming to an end.
Our first stop was the NOC . . . Nantahala Outdoor Center. This is a super huge outdoor gear kinda place. We needed to get two backpack ponchos that can accommodate our backpacks. There's only an eighty percent chance of rain for tomorrow. Yup. You guessed it. Sold out! So we came out of NOC with one new pair of shoes. Not for me but for Tim. LOL When we left the house we just weren't thinking about having to cross over, over flowing creeks from all the rain. For work I always keep a pair of water shoes in my car so I was set and just so happens they match my backpack. I like how that happens!
Once finished at NOC Tim drove me out to the parking lot where we will leave my SUV at the trail head for our hike. We needed to figure out the drive time and know where we are going at daybreak in the morning. On our arrival the lot was full so we now plan on leaving even earlier in the morning.
On this road leading to the trail head is an early family settlement from 1883 of the Ogle family. Adjacent to this settlement is a self guided nature trail. So of course we couldn't pass up the opportunity for a hike and learn some history plus it will be a test run to stretch out for tomorrow's hike. It was a short and adventurous hike. The smells of the Great Smoky Mountains, the calming sounds of the flowing LeConte Creek and the spectacular dogwoods that are in full bloom made for a very relaxing stroll through the forest.
Tim and I, somehow of course, had a late lunch. Purchased ponchos from a store that will remain unnamed. Drove through Pigeon Forge . . . not impressed. Landed back at the hotel to do our final re-pack of the backpacks and hope to be in bed early tonight.
Of course we are hearing that there is no cell signal on the mountain so for the next few days we will more than likely be off grid. Once we return to civilization and begin phase three I'll update the blog for the days we are at LeConte Lodge.
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