Standing bear hostel

It's a fairly new place on the other side of the highway. I did not stay there as that was the pickup point, but got to chat with Curtis, the owner and check out the interesting facilities. Curtis has somehow adopted a wild hog and pigglets and has a couple of beautiful dogs. This is the place where a couple of guys are quitting the trail. It was "not what I expected" or "I'm not having fun anymore" are some o the reasons. While some reasons may be legitimate, a lot of times when people tell you their reasons as if they are trying to convince themselves.

This particular fella Allan, who I met at the NOC has reengineered his pack from a normal backpack weighing 35-45 pounds to the bare minimum of 20-25 lbs. His last few weeks must have been miserable and while he walks faster, his comforts outside of walking are probably all gone.

I have trouble understanding the mentality, there is enough resources on the web about AT, and to come out there clueless after spending, money, time, etc seems a bit odd. I would think the decision to quit would sit w me for a long time and be a toxic influence for a long time. But that's why they say, "hike your own hike".

Standing Bear Hostel (End of the smokies)