Timeline

I had not called the Inn earlier in the day, so I was definitely taking a risk by calling after 8pm.

I thought this was just a standard inn, but it’s actually just a house that is being used for special visitors, hikers - it was likely previously bed and breakfast.

The road walk into town was not something I recommend doing at night. I could have kept running, but as the sun set, the forest turned into the most beautiful pine path I may gave ever seen.

The moon was shining through the trees, and quite frankly, I wanted to stay there all night - maybe forever.

The Alabama/Georgia border has two large, nice flags blowing in the wind.

I wonder how long these last, and who climbs up here to maintain them. They’re on the far side of the last mountain before the descent into lower elevations.

This next section of the trail is pretty sketchy, as it involves a road walk with a fair amount of garbage on the side.

I’m coming onto Georgia soon, and for sure, my impression of Georgia isn’t getting better.

My sleep schedule is on point; I’ve been sleeping 10+ hours per night and feeling very refreshed, even though I’m walking before first light.

It feels so efficient and productive, and I’m elated.

If it was a growl, the source moved on. I was not disturbed for the rest of the night. It’s 5AM, and I’m off.

If I’m going to night hike, I want it to be in the morning.

I’m not sure why Jeremy was so accomodating, but he volunteered to take me to the trailhead at 6AM ON Christmas morning.

By 6:15, I was off.

29.1 miles. Dam coco shelter

Jeremy was so emotive about the possibility of me staying in Heflin that I felt bad turning him down.

111 - 86 = 25

I’m 3 miles from Heflin, Alabama.

I don’t know how many snacks I’ve eaten today, but I enjoyed every one. The sun is setting, and I should probably make camp. If I make it into Heflin, however, I can stay in a motel and then it doesn’t matter how dark it is.