Andrew, a Life scout at the time, has gone on to get his Eagle, trail name The DUDE.

A giant bolder on our decent from Blood Mountain.

Demo of how rocky and boldery the trail is.  When you think that tennis shoes or even trail runners would work I would say, "Not for everyone."  Unless you do a lot of backpacking and or hiking/running and your knees, ankles and joints are prepared I think a supportive and well broken in boot best serves most.  My toes were a little sore but I discovered the need to have boots fitted after a long day of walking or standing along with a heavy sock.  I tried my boots on without the heavy sock and purchased online.  Don't do that.

I forgot what this is called but seems like it was called table rock or something like that.

Coming down into Mountain's Crossing. What a relief!

My Dad and hiking companion!

Last years 62 miler stuff finally getting posted

You may want to mute the tunes in the player (right side of the page)

Finally posting pics from last year's 62 miler

Outside Mountain Crossings and at the base of Blood Mountain.

The Walsisi-Yi center or "Mountain's Crossings" was our only showering location and offered a nice resupply break from the grind.  After descending Blood mountain my toes and feet were so blistery that I questioned my ability to do 30 more miles.  I wondered if I shouldn't take a day off and get a ride to our next "checkpoint" or switch to my tennis shoes.  I laundered my clothing and felt like a brand new man.

What I remember about the Raven Cliffs Wilderness was that it was the least maintained segment that we crossed.  The dewy grass that hung out over the trail soaked some shoes.  I was wearing gaiters and stayed dry.  All the other sections had been trimmed a little to keep the weeds from hanging over the trail. 

After ascending from Tesnatee Gap we did a 1000foot climb to Hog Pen Gap.  There was a tent site just north east of the road where we took this picture. 

A cool rocky outcropping was a great place to take a quick breather and take a pic.  Many times the trail is cut into the side of a cliff with deadly drop offs. 

This is the plaque located at Unicoi Gap.  I was glad to see it.  Hikers are always looking for some kind of reward for their efforts.  This was cool and old looking.  Love the motto associated with the trail, "For those who seek fellowship with the wilderness."

Finally posting pics from last year's 62 miler

The trail is surrounded by lush ferns and other flora.  This was near wildcat mountain.

With many of our peaks covered with trees the views were sometimes just a sneak peak.  After so much work it was almost disappointing.  Almost.

A stately looking shroom.

This is mountain laurel.  It was in full bloom and was beautiful.  The trail was often littered with so many blossoms that it looked like snow. 

The trail was lush and beautiful.  The trail is maintained by hundreds of thousands of volunteer man hours from clubs that take care of specific sections. 

Unicoi Gap.  We made it!  I geocached the picture of Kathryn behind this rock.  Can't wait to unearth it when I go back!!