04-22-13 Somewhere near Round Bald

We had a money day today; a day chock full of beautiful views and smooth trail. Days like today keep us going during the bad weather and sections of tough trail.

K and I got on the trail sometime after 8 because of the cold. We were soon warmed by the most reliable source we know, a big climb. Today's was bigger than most, we were going up to 6,000 ft in the Roan Highlands. The climb wasn't as bad as a 2,000 ft, 4 mile should be and we took our morning snack at Toll House Gap where a prohibition-era hotel once stood.

At Round Bald we were treated to 360 degree views and we ate our succulent lunch (tortilla with summer sausage and cheese). The next few miles were gentle ups and downs with views abound. Miles melted under our feet and before we knew it, we were ready for our afternoon snack with another 360.

We ended up camping in the only wooded area we could find between two giant balds. An easy way to hike 15 miles.