AT Day 15: GSMNP to Siler’s Bald Shelter

Daily Miles: 17.8, Total Miles: 195.5

I woke up to a misty morning, wet but no rain – I think we are in a cloud.

The second day in the Smokies started off well but slowed down as the steep uphills and downhills resumed. I saw my first bear scat today just before I got water at Spence Field Shelter. Met a hiker there who had already had a bear bag full of food stolen out of a tree by an experienced bear a few days ago. He had just seen another bear earlier this morning. His new trail name is Bear Bag.

I had a late lunch and water at Derrick’s Knob Shelter and met and chatted with some new hikers. One couple had been on the trail since March 6.

I trudged on to Siler’s Bald Shelter and my campsite for the night. Supposed to rain tonight so batten down the hatches.

The Great Smokies are no joke – a good cardiac workout.