Hostel With LaCrosse Connection

Post date: Apr 13, 2016 12:1:15 PM

I'm at a hostel called Vango/Abby Memorial Hostel run by Scotty who has hiked the AT three times and the PCT more than once as well. He ran the hostel with his friend Ron "Vango" Frey up until 2008 when Ron died. Ron was somewhat a legend in these parts for his work and support of the AT and received awards and recognition from organizations like the AT Conservancy. He also is from La Crosse! He grew up there as part of a large Frey clan, worked at various places, including Gundersen Clinic, and when he retired he decided to move south and ended up here in the Roan Mountain area and became involved with the trail. He and Scotty ran the hostel together. When he died in 2008, Scotty continued on with the help of his girlfriend but I sense a lot is missed with Ron gone. Ron is buried in the Oak Grove Cemetery in La Crosse.

This morning I am at mile 406, uncertain about the goal today.