Blood Mountain, Georgia

After a good night of sleep under the stars and cool mountain air I woke early before the sun rose on Friday, ate breakfast and then began my journey to the top of Blood Mountain. At 4,459 ft it's the highest point of the trail in Georgia, with the oldest shelter on the entire AT.

I started at Mountain Crossings, Neels Gap and stepped foot on the A.T. and began my ascent to the top of Blood Mountain. For the most part I was alone, but I passed a few Section Hikers making their way down to Neels Gap intending to finish at Springer Mountain by Saturday.

Overall by the time I was done my wandering on the A.T. this weekend I put in 12 miles. Twelve miles of beautiful trail, steep climbs, boulders, and rock steps. Various wildflowers and towering Rhododendrons. And the community of hikers who are called to the A.T. for various personal reasons, but also a shared purpose and passion for the trail.

While I have hiked portions of the A.T. in PA, VA, and MD, hiking to Blood Mountain has stirred my desire to hike more. I may never thru hike the trail, but thoughts of section hikes stir in my mind as my weekend in the Georgia mountains comes to a close.