This backpack was billed as a winter event and it is the end of January, so we were not surprised to be a bit chilly as we headed out for our 1st backpack of the year. Our destination … Bob’s Bald in the southern section of the Cherokee National Forest.
We were on the trail around 2:30 PM. The skies were sunny but unfortunately, the sun did not take much chill out of the air and we started out totally bundled up; me in a long sleeve shirt, fleece vest, fleece jacket AND rain jacket. The higher we hiked, the higher our body temps climbed so we stopped several times to peel layers.
For the most part, the trail was clear. As we neared the bald, we encountered an inch or so of snow around a rhododendron thicket along with some water and slush. This indicated our hike out could be a frozen mess because the overnight temperature was expected to be in the mid 20’s.
Sunset arrived on Bob’s Bald around 6:00 PM. We cooked dinner in the dark, our meal, a less than satisfactory concoction that was suppose to be “Shepherd’s Pie.” It was too yucky to photograph (mashed potatoes, peas, corn, spices and soy meal starter) and not much better to eat.
Will and Kim warmly bundled against the cold
Duane cleaning up after dinner
A big fire with the express purpose of warming the group of 13
Warmed by a blazing fire, everyone stayed up till nearly 10:00 PM, very unusual on a cold, winter night. The later bedtime and warm sleeping bags resulted in difficulty getting out of the tent this morning. We had a relaxing few hours while we talked over breakfast, followed by the task of tearing down camp. While most of the group spent the late morning hours exploring areas adjacent to the bald, Will, Kim, John and I hurried down the trail. Kim had a previous engagement and I plan to leave for Virginia in the morning.
All in all, this was a lot of fun. Thanks for leading another great winter backpack, Ron!!
