So we got up a little earlier then normal today, knowing that we had a long, uphill day ahead of us. At this point, tho, everyday seemed like a long, up hill day!!! Anyway, we had heard the forecast and some grumblings amongst other hikers about the heavy rains that were supposed to hit tonight and the following day. This would come into play later on.
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| Breakfast of champions!! |
It started out as a beautiful day as we climbed up to the highest peak on the AT. Since we knew we had a hard day, we stopped for a double lunch. While we were there, the Family caught up and we chatted about our plans. When we were packing up, rain started to hit us. This made up our mind to get off the mountain and into Gatlinburg. Coco and Southpaw agreed as well and I was able to call our shuttle to see if he could get us a day earlier. He said no problem. We were stoked!!
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| Beautiful view before the rain |
The last 3 miles up to the Dome was all in the fog and mist. The mist moved so fast between the trees it was crazy. Pictures didn't do it justice!!
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| Getting closer |
We finally made it to the top, with about 2,000 of our closest friends. This place was a zoo!!! There is a wide, paved half mile trail from the parking lot to the curved paved ramp up to the top. On nice, sunny days, this place can see 30,000 in one day!!! We walked up the walkway, and got brief views of the landscape thru the fog and mist before we headed back down. Time for some town food and clean clothes!!!
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| Clingman selfie |
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| Tootsie enjoying the view |
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| The AKsherpa |
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| Walkway up to the top |
Our shuttle drive met us, and whisked us into the touristy town of Gatlinburg. After being in the solitude and quietness, this town was quite abrasive. But, they had good food and our resupply. For that, we were thankful!!
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| Tootsie, Southpaw, Coco and AK Sherpa |
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