Day 25 Sugarloaf Gap to Spivey Gap (20.1 miles) 331.6 miles total

Woke up this AM to no rain. Think it rained between 3-4 inches yesterday.

Little bit of sunshine today! Decided to go big distance today and hitch ride to Erwin, TN where I can get room and dry everything out.

Still following NC/TN border. Hiked in NC all day…I think. Crossed under I-26 and saw welcome to TN sign about 50 yds from me. Also staying in TN tonight.

I think these balds are really cool. I try to envision cattle grazing. Below is Big Bald (elev 5516 ft). Was pretty windy and chilly walking across there.

I got to Spivey Gap about 4PM. Hwy 19 runs right there so I was hoping to hitch ride the 15 miles to Erwin.

When I got there, 3 thru-hikers were waiting alongside road for shuttle to hostel in opposite direction I’m heading. They told me 2 cars had passed by in 45 minutes they’d been there. Hitching not looking good!

Had phone number for shuttle service but not enough signal to get call through. Starting to get nervous. Don’t want to spend night in tent!

Tried texting and it went through. Nice guy who’s hiked trail twice gave me ride. Giving me a ride back out to same spot in AM.

All comfy at Super 8. Will go out tomorrow and finish last 11 miles to Erwin and then stay again tomorrow night. Living large!

Happy trails!