Burden Falls to Garden of the Gods Wilderness; Distance = 20 Miles; People Met = 6+
The first day of this stretch was cold and clear as we traveled mainly on Forest Service roads. The second day was overcast and windy as we hiked mainly on the River to River Trail. We will hike one more short stretch on the River to River Trail before heading north to Shawneetown, but I do so with some apprehension. The Trail is officially closed for the winter and we could see why on this last stretch. The trail has become severely eroded in some places with unsure footing on wintry mud. I wrenched my knee a bit but recovered fine.
The weather may be acting like a yo-yo but a constant has been the long winter nights. In between the times we saw Ky we were in a tent for 32 out of 50 hours. I get very stir crazy under these conditions. Keep in mind I always seemed to be place in the front row of classes when I was young. At the time I thought teachers must like me, until I became a teacher myself. I really have trouble being still for long periods of time and I would say that these winter nights are my own biggest challenge for the journey.
As we came into Herod we saw an invitation at a private residence for trail sojourners to help themselves to spring water. Such a sighting is common along the Appalachian Trail, but this was the first such instance I noticed along the American Discovery Trail. I had to knock on Dallas Bailey’s door to thank him and his wife Joyce for their kindness. Even considering I woke him up his smile confirms his predisposition towards kindness.
Springwater available in Herod
Dallas Bailey
