Last year when I was down this way, I really enjoyed Laurel Fork Falls. It is only about a mile or so from Dennis Cove Road, so I decided to revisit the falls. This time I took Lynn.
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While Lynn and I returned to Dennis Cove Road, I found a short side trail that I had looked for last year but had missed. It is unmarked and hard to spot. It is only about 1/10 of a mile. Here's the view from Potato Top.
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After returning to our car. I said good-bye to Lynn and headed off.
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White Rocks Mountain offered several nice views.
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I came across a stray dog. He was all skin and bones. I knew if I fed him, I risked being stuck with him. If I was home or knew where I shelter was, I would take him. I gave him half an Odwalla bar which made him quite pleased. His face reminded me so much of my last dog Snoopy.
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I last saw him at Moreland Gap Shelter.
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At the shelter I met two thru hikers: "Jefe"
and "Downtown Venus"
I try to help out thru hikers whenever I can.
"How's everyone doing on food?" I asked.
"Fine," said Jefe.
"What about you?" I asked Downtown Venus.
"I don't want to take your food," she responded.
"I bring extra to help thru hikers. I'm just day hiking and resupply every night."
She gratefully accepted an Odwalla bar.
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Crossing Laurel Fork
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Almost done for the day.
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I found the beginning of the relo that threw Lynn and I for a loop yesterday. Note the two blazes (signifying a turn) and the brown painted over them to 'hide' the former trail.
I reached Walnut Mountain Road 20 minutes ahead of schedule. The rain had held off all day . . . until now. I sat to wait for Lynn and the skies opened up with thunder, lightning, rain, and hail. With my rain gear, I managed to stay dry until Lynn promptly arrived at 3:30. I've got a big day tomorrow - 28 miles!!
