Day 3 SNOW!!!!
Had an interesting night in the Gooch Mountain Shelter. There were about 14 hikers including 8 thru hikers. We made a nice fire and sat around it telling stories. Great bunch of folks. The group was a nice mix from 20 to 70 years old from all walks of life.
We climbed into our sleeping bags around nine anticipating the forecast of rain. Well the rain never came, but three inches of snow did!!! We awoke to a winter wonderland.
I hit the trail around 8 am. It was slippery to say the least. I was thankful I decided to buy a pair of micro spikes for my boots. They helped tremendously. The climbed out was cold and long. My plan was to reach Lance Creek 7.8 miles away, however once I arrived at Woody Gap I was soaking wet from melting snow, rain and sweating. The weather is calling for another cold night in the area.
To prevent possible hypothermia, I made the decision to hitch hike into the small town of Suches and get a bunk for the night at the Wolfpen Gap Country Store and Hostel. A very kind gentleman in his 70's immediately picked me up and drove me to the country store. My judgement was sound... I was able to get a hot shower, a good meal, a warm bed and my clothes laundered all for under 20 dollars. It's alway better to be safe than sorry.
In the morning I will be back on the trail from Woody Gap enroute to Neels Gap, Mountain Crossings.
Enjoy the pics and video!!!! I posted a photo of the "Privy" in the snow... Talk about freezing your ass off!!!! Lol.
