Began the day at Audie Murphy's memorial. A Texas native, he was the most decorated World War II veteran, which included 3 Purple Hearts. He passed away in a plane crash near that part of the Appalachian Trail.
The trail brought us back down the mountain, where we stopped for lunch. Chatted with a south bounder, House Broke, who is nearing the end of his Appalachian Trail adventure.
Up the trail we went in elevation to get back on the ridge line which led us straight to the Dragons Tooth. We came, we saw, we conquered.
The descent was unpleasant for about a mile and there were several places with rebar hand grips for extra stability. We're really close to Virginia Tech, and passed several groups of students barreling to the top.
Exhausted, but at the bottom finally, we decided to spend the night at Four Pines Hostel. A Virginia Tech student was walking to his car and asked if a) we were thru-hikers then b) if we needed a ride anywhere. The hostel was only three-tenths of a mile off trail, but we obliged.
Enjoyed our stay at Four Pines--it has been awhile since I've been able to relax on a couch. We were able to shower and slept well on military cots.
Rock hugger
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