Today felt like the invasion of the day hikers! There were so many clean people on the mountain! There were also tons of weekend backpackers with giant tents. I experienced for the first time passing a group of people with no packs on, going uphill and losing sight of them almost instantly. We answered many questions from many people. It’s definitely the weekend and we are near quite a few roads. We hit some more trail magic today, this time with homemade cake! We hiked 18.5 miles.
Hiking Hammonds 
I am assuming when day hikers see all of the scruffy beards they know u are thru hikers
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We can smell them before we see them usually, so they can smell us too I’m sure
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Perhaps the day hikers were trying to get ahead of the AT hikers ‘perfume’ . Glad your stressful evening led into a really great next day. Be safe , love you both 🍃🐾🍂
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No I was ahead of them, trying to get away from their perfume!
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Hi! I’m Jim Hopkins. A friend of your Dad’s. I saw him in PHX 2 mos ago when he mentioned your trek. I’m very jealous and have enjoyed your daily updates. (Looks like your Dad does too.) I’m from Roanoke and am familiar with the territory you are enjoying now. Lots of bears in your future as you entire the Shenandoah Valley. Have a great time.
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Thanks for your note, glad you enjoy it. Saw lots of bears yesterday!
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