I began my run at Woody Gap, setting off at noon on a beautiful day. After trekking for 15 miles, I took a brief break to hydrate and refuel with a nourishing PayDay bar and Ensure, filtering a liter of water to sustain me through the upcoming climb up Coosa. As I made my way up the trail, I faced a challenging 13-mile stretch with limited water sources, making it all the more important to conserve and replenish my supply. At mile 25, I managed to filter another liter of water and refuel with a PayDay bar and Ensure once more before continuing on towards Hwy 60.
Upon reaching Hwy 60 at mile 36, I took advantage of a reliable water source and filtered two liters of water, consuming around 1000 calories to fuel my journey through the remote stretch between Hwy 60 and Long Creek Falls. As darkness set in, I filtered another liter of water at mile 40, pushing onwards towards Springer Mountain. With only a mile left to the summit, I stopped for a quick 10-minute nap in my emergency bivy, as the temperature had begun to drop dramatically.
At mile 52, I finally summited Springer Mountain, taking on the challenging bushwhack to the Bull Mountain trails. This section is best tackled in daylight hours, as the trail can be easily lost in the darkness. After crossing a significant water source at mile 64, I took the opportunity to filter another liter of water and consume around 500 calories. By mile 68, I was ready for another quick nap in my bivy, resting up for the 10-mile stretch ahead, which took me along forest service roads.
With the sun starting to rise, I filtered water at various places along the roads, taking my time to ensure I was fully hydrated and energized for the next leg of the journey. Finally, at mile 78, I rejoined the Appalachian Trail, feeling invigorated by the warmth of the sun and the beauty of the surroundings. The final four miles to my car at Woody Gap were a joyous journey, and I arrived at my destination at 9:45 am, feeling proud of my accomplishment and ready for my next adventure.