AT Day 11: Wayah Bald & Rocky Bald

Daily Miles: 17.6, Total Miles: 127.0

Thunder, lightning and rain started very early in the morning. Still going strong when I woke up at 6am. Rain was expected to continue until 9:30am so I delayed my shuttle pickup until then. By the time my shuttle arrived at Winding Stairs Gap, it was clearing fast. I enjoyed some coffee and donuts with trail angels before setting off.

The first task was a steady four-mile climb to Siler Bald. By the time I got there, the winds were at full force, the trees were creaking, squeaking and groaning from rubbing together. It felt much like walking next to a roaring freight train.

The trail dipped down to another gap and then another ascent to Wayah Bald. The 5,300′ summit is marked by a stone observation tower. I joined some other hikers and enjoyed a couple of hot dogs and a banana courtesy of a trail angel. One hiker couple I met told me they were also working on their Triple Crown, Hot Lips and Caveman.

I hiked on for another eight miles, first down and then up to Rocky Bald where I found just enough flat ground to squeeze my tent in. Hopefully the wind settles down but I think I’ll need earplugs tonight.