Day 25 of AT in VA NOBO

Ashby Gap (992.4) to
Bear’s Den Hostel (1,006)
Total Miles: 13.6

A chilly (38 degrees) start to the morning as I headed north. Came around a corner and saw a beautiful cluster of Virginia Bluebells lining the trail (see pic).
Was an enjoyable first 4 miles contemplating the 14 mile long “Rollercoaster” that was to come. The Coaster is 14 consecutive pyramid shaped up and down segments rising and then falling 500ft which are mostly comprised of small & medium sized jagged rocks. It ended up not being as bad as advertised, though the toughest part of it I’ll hit tomorrow am on my way towards Harper’s Ferry.
I reached the 1,000 mile hiked (from Springer) sign
Midday. Only 1,200 miles to go! 😃😳
Only did 13.6 miles today as I wanted to check out The Bear’s Den, a large stone (looks like a French countryside manse) hostel which is right on trail in the middle of the woods and is owned by the Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC). I’ve read a lot about it and many hikers stay at it as they pass by. You can pitch your tent on the back grounds for $15 (includes shower), or you can stay inside: bunk bed is $30 and private room is either $60 or $80. The hiker special is $40 and you get a bunk, shower, a load of laundry, a pizza, soda & pint of ice cream. The 2 caretakers were very nice as were the other hikers. The pizza and Talenti Gelato too!Read more