For the fourth and fifth times since 2016 Vigorous Hikers/Alums ventured into the Southern Appalachians of North Carolina, to enjoy hiking in the highest mountains in the Eastern United States.  Steve graciously agreed to join Bob in his quest to complete all of the mountain segments (1-5), about 345 miles, of the almost 1200-mile Mountains to Sea Trail (MST).  To do this they would need to hike practically all of Segment 1 starting in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, about half of Segment 3 from Mt. Pisgah to east of Asheville, and almost all of Segment 5 from Grandfather Mountain to Milepost 236 on the Blue Ridge Parkway, for a total of about 160 miles.  

Over 11 fine mid- and late-October days, with the help of their friend Heather from Boone, they completed 130 of the 160 miles.  They returned the following May to complete the last 30 miles.  

Pictures by Bob and Steve - Bob produced the report.

Pictures at photos.app.goo.gl/RfrVzWrLMBEji5gt8