April 27 – Virginia Approach

Post date: Apr 28, 2012 4:30:12 PM

Having heard from other hikers, "Austin" asked their host at the Kincora about the Treehouse and "Five Pair" and "Austin" settled in for the night at that separate accomodation rather than the bunkhouse. As described, the Treehouse, as one might expect, is a cabin built in the trees.

Irish detour... "Kincora" comes from Celtic phrase "kindness of the heart" which is appropriate given the host and Kincora was the birthplace and seat of power of Brian Boru, High King of Ireland in the 11th century and progenitor of the Clan O'Brien. Detour complete.

The previous night's feast and the restful slumber at the Kincora Hostel resulted in the hikers getting somewhat of a late start in the morning. As they progressed down the AT, more trail magic appeared and notwithstanding the prior nights feast and a hearty breakfast, the hikers enjoyed the food offerings of two thru-hikers and two thru-hikers in planning (daughter and son-in-law of one of the thru-hikers).

After enjoying this version of trail magic, the hikers moved on but realizing the time found themselves looking at a relatively light day (compared with their prior days) and set up camp after 10½ miles at Watuga Lake Shelter along the shore line of Watuga Lake with impressive views of the lake from the AT.

The hikers find themselves 36 miles from the Virginia state line and 40 miles from the renown trail city, Damascus, Virginia, and may attempt to arrive in Damascus by Sunday night.

426.8 miles complete/1,757.6 miles to go