Scorching.

Today was the day that the AT really started to show me its teeth. Perhaps it was another lesson for me not to take any day out here for granted.

My thermometer peaked at 85 degrees today. That just so happened to be the time of day I was starting my back-to-back 1000-foot ascents and descents. Spring at the tops of these Georgian mountains is late, meaning there is very little shade coverage. I was hot, exposed, and climbing a mountain.

It ended up being the longest day on the trail for me so far. I covered 16 miles and a total of 4400 feet of ascent in 8 hours. It probably took me 3 hours to do the last 3 miles because of the heat and difficulty.

Ended up camping out on top of Tray Mountain; mile 59. A little sunburned, half a dozen bug bites, and a bit of exhaustion. Other than that, I’m lucky to say I don’t have any nagging injuries, blisters, or lingering ailments.

I booked a hostel for tomorrow, and I look forward to a hot shower and clean clothes.