Leaving the gracious host, John Roberts of the Llewelyn Lodge, I began making my way through the Appalachians to the Four Pines hostel to spend the night. The route led me along the ridge paralleling the Appalachian Trail on very steep grades on roads that continued with a day of straight up, straight down. Seventy two miles later I arrived at my destination tired with little time left before sunset.
I cooked dinner and visited with the six hikers that were there resting for a few days after their hike of between 20 and 30 miles. I also discovered that most cyclists only cover 40 to 50 miles per day through here so this lifted my tired spirit.
I woke at 6:30, packed up and left, planning to eat along the route. Stores are not plentiful here so breakfast turned into lunch while chatting with a few friendly locals, Virginia hospitality is a wonderful thing.
I tried to put on as many miles as I could to end the day as close as possible to Nancy’s campsite at Stoney Fork Campground. After traveling 65 miles, tired with another 30 miles to go I set up camp off the roadside with barely enough daylight to set up my tent. Tomorrow is another day, hopefully fresh legs to continue the Appalachian terrain.
The sleep was just what I needed, and my legs felt fresh as I rode to the campsite. I arrived mid day as Nancy and a few fellow campers were walking on the park road. They were expecting me and were coming to greet my arrival. A shower and restful afternoon gave way to a delicious cooked meal. Very nice to be here!