04-06-13 Together at Rocky Top

Woke up early but let the first wave of people shuffle out of camp.

It was midmorning when we were rounding a corner and saw a deer. Had a snack at the next shelter and continued on.

The terrain changed near Rocky Top (subject of the Tennessee anthem). It was exposed and grassy which made for sunny and un-obstructed views. A perfect lunch spot.

We thundered down Thunderhead Mountain, through Starkey and Sugar Tree Gaps. Reached Derrick Knob Shelter and put my heals up to cool. The last 6 miles were some of the roughest trail in the smokies.

Hit a huge milestone today--185 miles--we're in the less than 2,000 miles to go!