Wednesday, 11 June

Destination: Bear’s Den Hostel (1005.8)
Start Location: Ashby Hollow (999.2)
Today’s Miles: 6.6
Trip Miles: 74.5

Only one other hiker came in and tented last night. A section hiker from Ohio who started his sections ten years ago and is hiking to Pine Grove Furnace, the halfway point. That is about a hundred AT miles each year.

Last night was our coolest night, about 55 and great sleeping weather. The first night I pulled my quilt over me. Bob and I were up early anticipating the hiker special at Bears Den Hostel, bunk, laundry, pizza, soda and pint of Ben & Jerry’s ice cream for $ 40.

Today was six climbs and five descents to the hostel, that is why this section is called the Roller Coaster. Most of the climbs were 3-500 feet. Nothing brutal but not fun in the heat. Bob and I stopped at Sam Moore Shelter for a break and some water. Nice, cold spring water. There were two hikers at the shelter.

We arrived at Bears Den around 12:30 with some extra motivation. Bears Chase Brewery is just down the road. The couple who are thru hiking that we meet at Jim and Molly Denton Shelter were leaving. Bob and I staked out bunks and headed to the brewery for lunch. The burger and cheese steak were massive and a cold one hit the spot. Very nearly disaster. Bob has been worried that the brewery would not be open. I had assured him it would be and he ever even asked, Lightfoot, the ridge runner. Surprisingly, on the calendar posted at the brewery, it is closed one day this month – tomorrow! I would never have heard the end of it off we arrived tomorrow.

Back to the hostel for showers and the chance to wear stylish loaner clothes until laundry is done. Time to relax, charge phones and update the blog and photos.

Spontaneous Combustion and a thru hiker, Tex came in. At five, Glen, the hostel caretaker, opened the upstairs and told us how to do laundry, make our pizza, and showed is where the ice cream is.  Bob and I shared the washer with Tex. After the big, late lunch we held off and split a pizza. But saved room for ice cream. Another couple, thru hiking, also came in. Lots of folks, hard to tell who is in bunks and who is tenting since the food and facilities are available to both.

John Kelly who is attempting an Appalachian Trail FKT (Fastest Known Time) supported passed Bears Den today. Tex saw his support crew and John. On our way back from the brewery, Bob and I meet a woman with her young daughter hoping to see him pass.