164.2-147.6 Fontana Resort to Locus Grove Gap

Managed to leave the resort this morning. Still hurting from the two losses: Ohio State over UM in double overtime and Hummingbird’s victory over me in the ping pong championship. Both were come from behind victories. Still, a great “last” stay in a structure other than a tent or shelter until we are done. Activities: Football game, yoga, ping pong tournament, sleigh ride, movie, showers, laundry and resupply. Cost: not good!

Today went exactly as planned-16.6 miles and we're setup for a 10 miler to the Nantahala Outdoor Center where we'll need to figure out our shuttle around the fire zone.  Although we sit here with .about 147 miles to go, the number is really 79.9 after the fire is taken out. Crazy, but really just 4 more days of hiking.

Today started really cold as it dipped into the twenties last night. By the end, I was back in my usual of shorts and t-shirt. My hiking shirt now is starting to have a Swiss cheese appearance. It'll be retired on Friday if it doesn't disintegrate before then.

35°20′3″ N  83°42′12″ W
Elevation: 3,810
Days Out : 165
Nights left : 5