Monday 5-10

Cold, cloudy, and raining, it is miserable. My dislike for the smokies is growing. I was headed to icewater shelter, someone died there a couple of nights ago.

I got to new found gap, 3 miles from my destination, and changed into dry clothes. This is where my first thought of gatlinburg happened. Not only did I not want to put my wet shit back on, but I saw at least a dozen hikers headed to icewater and knew it was going to be packed. I also knew if I started my hike from gatlinburg I would be hiking by 8 am. I typically start at 10-11 (pretty late)

I took the shuttle into town and went to the grand prix motel. Not sure if I felt guilty or tired or both, I just bummed around the room and got some kfc, which was a mistake as my body flat out rejected the fried chicken.

Watched an hbo movie w Pacino, who played dr. Kevorkian and passed out. Oh yea and I watched the hawks get embarrassed at home and swept by Orlando, I feel like they are going to win the east and possibly upset the lakers. They look like a complete team. Also learned that rondo and celtics are giving cavs hell. If the cavs lose, lebron is leavin in free agency.

I have never been here, and did not explore the town.

NOC opened a nice outfitter in gatlinburg and runs the free shuttle to the AT.

Views from Newfound Gap (middle of smokies)