Virginia AT Day 9
Reeds Gap to Rockfish Gap
22.75 miles including a wild goose chase and road mile
I started today’s hike with Julie, who drove us from her place to Reeds Gap. It was so nice to have company on the trail after many solo miles. Not long after we said our farewells, just a few miles down the trail I was greeted by David Horton who’d come out to meet me with a meal made by Nancy and check out the Humpback Ledges, a first for me, as I typically blow by any kind of side adventure. The ledges were really cool!
After we said our goodbyes I felt a little emotional, feeling grateful for these encounters and getting some trail time with friends. Part of the reason I stayed in Virginia after I let go of the record was because, well, I don’t know when I’ll be down here next! It felt like the best choice to make the most of my time, made even better by seeing some familiar faces. I feel very seen and understood in the trail running and hiking community, like I’ve found many kindred spirits that “get it” and don’t think I’m weird or delusional for enjoying and pursuing this kind of thing, even when taken to the extreme (though I’ve tamed it down these last several days).
To this point I hadn’t had any music come to my mind on the trail, as it sometimes does, partly I think because I never got a chance to go really deeply into the well in terms of time on my feet and time awake. I think music has come to me before as a way of coping with pain and discomfort. Today a new theme did come to me, evoked by the bittersweetness that comes with seeing friends and places that mean a lot to you, and the “not knowing” of when you’ll return or see each other next. It’s a beautiful thing and can feel a bit sad, too.
I ended the day near Rockfish Gap at the last place I’d pre-booked for myself and opportunity to resupply food before entering the Shenandoahs. As soon as I got in I had a strong urge to lay down, and being dirty from the trail I did so right on the floor. Less than half the distance I’d gone in one day a week ago, but wow I’m wiped out and my feet are talking to me! I can sense that my motivation to hike is winding down, but I have miles to go yet.