The Bear's Den
Day 37 of the Trail: 6.7 miles hiked
Today, we woke to a very humid morning. Storms are supposed to roll in this afternoon, and had been expected to have hit last night, but never did. The weather says its 84% humidity and you can really feel it.
Last night we had an number of folks turn up at the campsite. Honestly, I am not a fan of camping with others. I am not a hermit but at the same time I am trying to get peace out here and avoiding crowds is better for that purpose. Amongst some of the hikers at the campsite were some interesting types. There were a couple of older men that were clearly from the north east and spoke loudly with a tone only someone from that part of the US could manage. They are both good guys, in doses. There was the hiking "power couple" that clearly had experience and were friendly people. However, I was to tired to socialize too much and was just looking forward to tomorrow's nero so I am trying to chill in my tent and relax to the soothing sounds of nature.
Ultimately nature wins! No hiker can outlast the setting sun. When darkness falls it's the quietest I have ever heard the night. In the morning, we get up and pack our things. The power couple wakes up and makes coffee. Meanwhile, those who are sleeping wake up to the sound of coffee being made and Thomas and I strike out early to avoid the rush.
Normally, I like to stealth camp: no other people to deal with, quite nights, and peaceful mornings.
We made it to Black Bear Cabins early and capitalized on the pizza and beer. A quick resupply, shower,laundry, and then afternoon naps! After nap time was early dinner and then more resting. We soaked our feet in the creek that ran next to the property and then sat around discussing our hiking plan. This "resort" is a nice place with decent resupply. Pizza is about $8 and it's the frozen thin crust kind, not my favorite, but a welcome meal after eating hiker food all week. The resort itself is one of those places you say to yourself, "I could run a place like this." There are a hand full of small cabins with no more than a set of bunk beds and a table with chairs. There is a community shower and laundry ($4 a load). Then you go down the list in your head of what you would do differently.
It's ran by a mother and daughter. Both are remarkably similar in personality and there is no mistaking the relationship. I would stay here again if hiking but that's coming from a guy who's luxury list includes cold drinks and warm meals. Not to take away from this place, but just know it's more of a hiker "resort" than a place to vacation. There is no cell service and no wifi. Internet can be used via a community computer in the "Bears Den" which is the movie/game room next to the showers.
The nearby creek has fish and is a welcoming white noise in this peaceful area. For the rest of the night I spend my time relaxing and getting into brotherly conversation with Thomas with the occasional compulsive phone check even though I know there is no signal. Tomorrow it's back to the uphill grind. Just less than 50 miles to Damascus, VA and no more Tennessee!
