7.2 miles

Long Branch shelter (mile 102) to Winding stair gap (mile 109.2)

Today should have been an easy day. According to the guidebook there was a lot of downhill.

But the ankle is hurting again. It’s ok though, it only hurts when I walk up or downhill…

The climb out of Rock gap was tough and the descent down to winding stair gap was tougher. I was practically hobbling the last couple of miles.

On my slow, painful way down the mountain I met Bill and his awesome dog Toby. Bill is a trail ambassador for the AT and he asked me a couple of questions about the shelter I stayed at. Bill then offered me a ride into Franklin, which I gratefully accepted.

To be honest, I thought my hike was over. My ankle was really painful and it was obvious it needed some rest at the very least.

Toby the dog slobbered on my shoulder the whole way into Franklin, which gave me homesickness pangs for my dogs. *Sigh*

Bill drove me around town to show me the sights of Franklin, this took about 30 seconds, then dropped me at the Sapphire motel. It was nothing special, but after being out in the woods it was pure luxury.

I got a hot shower, and some proper food and watched the news from the comfort of my bed. I still stank though, or at least my clothes did, so I dragged myself up the street to the coin laundry.

Then it was more food and TV in bed.

I like being warm.