Day 41-43, April 12-14

Miles from Springer Mountain: 635.9

Miles to Mount Katahdin: 1556.1

Tonight I am resting my head at the Angel’s Rest Hikers Heaven, it has been a tough few days but I have earned my rest. The small, neat town of Pearisburg has been nice to me. I’ve been here before, a small weekend vacation last year with Haley, but unfortunately I haven’t been able to enjoy the sites today like we did previously. The weather has been tough, constant rain and fluctuating temperatures make consistent hiking a tall task. I’ve marched onward despite it and appreciate my rest because of it.

The last two days have been 20+ mile days and my feet have taken a beating. My spirits are still relatively high and I am graciously anticipating walking without beating rain. Unexpectedly, the nights have been some of the easiest parts – instead of freezing, I’ve found myself sweating! It is a problem I will gladly handle.

On the 12th I passed the 600 mile mark. I took a second at the marking to remark at the accomplishment and understand how far I’ve come. It’s been a long few weeks, but seeing each mile pass brings great personal pride. Being away from the ones I love gets harder with each step but I relish in the fact that every feet passed is one foot closer to being home.

I’m excited to reach further and progress on the trail over the next few weeks, I can see Harper’s Ferry and the halfway mark in my crosshairs. Until then I relish the moments of relaxation and remembrance of daily memories I make on trail.

See you this week, Mcafee’s Knob!