April 11th: Significantly Better Day

Miles Today: 13.5

Mile Marker: 375.3 Ash Gap

I guess I woke up on the right side of the tent this morning. Last night I camped on a ridgeline with my tent oriented to catch the morning sunrise. I woke up a little more motivated today and got going about an hour sooner. I sat and stared at the mountains eating my breakfast as the sunlight washed over the valley. Much better start to the day.

The first half of the day flew by. I felt like I was back in the groove. So much so that I accidentally stepped on a snake. It was some small non-venmous snake, so it wasn't a big deal. I had my headphones in and was cruising along when all of a sudden, I was though “Wait was that a snake?” I turned around and this little foot and a half long snake had its head turned toward me with this “What the hell man!?” expression on its face. While I do hate snakes, I did apologize. It gave me pause about wearing both earbuds while I hike, but I ultimately decided it's no big deal. If I have a similar encounter with one of the bitey diey types, I might change my mind.

The forecast for tonight calls for a 50% chance of rain, but the clouds are looking like they are going to deliver. I was able to stop early before it gets here at a campsite with water instead of heading up to the shelter. I likely could have made it, but another couple of miles today doesn't affect my schedule for resupply. No reason to risk it right now.