Each day out on the trail I felt my legs getting stronger. Unfortunately my knees were lagging behind a bit. Each day of lugging my 40+ pound pack up and down mountains left my knees swollen and sore. At Neel Gap I had talked with my folks and we decided it would be a good idea to take a zero day soon. I looked at my map and noticed I’d have an opportunity to go into Helen, Georgia at an upcoming road crossing.  

However before I could enjoy my zero I still had over 20 miles to hike. My next stop after Neel Gap was Low Gap Shelter. The hike between the two was easily the most beautiful terrain I have yet to cover. The trail led along the top of several ridges providing spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. The weather was gorgeously cooperative.  

I made my way to the shelter and found a good site for my tent. It was going to be another bitter cold night. Some of the hikers started a fire in the fire pit. It was nice to enjoy some warmth and camaraderie after dinner.

That night I spent my coldest night ever outdoors. I’m not sure exactly what the temperature was but at one point I put on my sleep mask not to keep out the light but because even my eyes were cold. I’m very thankful I purchased the 15 degree sleeping bag and not the lighter 30 degree bag. 

 I was up pretty soon after sunrise. I had a good day of hiking under beautiful skies. Packs just seem lighter when you have the reward of a zero waiting at the end of the day. I made my way to Unicoi Gap where I had to find a ride into town. I was delighted to find when I made my way across GA 75 and into the parking lot there was a group from a church in Raleigh, NC doing trail magic. They offered me as many burgers as I could eat. They were also generous enough to give me a ride into town once they had finished distributing their magic. I can’t thank Jace and those folks enough!