Day 42-Time For Some Boots Off

April 29-6.5 miles-Campsite to Boots Off Hostel-AT mile 428.6


We said a fond farewell to Dusty. She gave us food, and even took our trash. If it all works out, when we finish, we’ll come back and do the Smokies with her (gives us a goal to strive for).

We parted ways at the side trail into Hampton. 

But first, a little beach hike. 

And over the river (2nd bridge of the day)

Goodbye Dusty! We’ll miss you!

Our route heading up. 

There are two ways to get into Hampton. Since we were heading to Boots Off Hostel, we wanted the second option, as it takes us right to the hostel. Of course, that meant we had to do a three mile climb up, then down to follow the AT. 

It was weird because we could see Hampton, but we were walking away from it. Granted, the hostel is not in the center of town. As we came over and started down, we got a good view of Watuga Lake. 

Lots of recreating happens there. In the distance is the dam. I believe we cross over it. 

Boots Off Hostel is a pretty cool place. It’s like Standing Bear Farm, but way more upscale. The murals around the place are amazing. We met Paint Splash as we got to the sign. She has done many murals along the trail. 

Big ol’ log

Paint Splash working on the backside. 

We walked up to the hostel and was greeted with a hearty, “Hikers!” John checked us in, and gave us a tour of the place. 



Our accommodations for the night. 

My bunk

Door of one shower

Door of the other shower. The showers are made with wash tubs with holes. Water runs from a hot water pipe and cold water pipe into the tub, and out the holes. It was awesome!

The common area

More mural in the common area. 

After showering, we gave John our laundry. Yep, they do it for you. I borrowed a pair of shorts to wear while my laundry was being done. 

They have a pretty decent resupply here, so we got what we could, then at 6:00 we’ll shuttle into town to the grocery to get a few things they didn’t have. We’re going to grab dinner at McDonalds (I’d prefer Subway, but it’s not open), then head back. Thunderstorms are rolling in tonight. Once again we have timed our hostel stay well. Sure Foot says it’s going to rain tomorrow, but not very much. We are planning a long one tomorrow, so hopefully it doesn’t rain all day. 

Here’s a couple of parting shots. 

Look! Dinner rolls stuck to a tree!

Pretty little columbine. 






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