Day 33 McQueens Knob to Damascus, VA (11.9 miles). 469.2 total miles

Wind howled all night. Got pretty chilly, too. Took a while to get going as was waiting for it to warm up a bit before rolling out of sleeping bag.

Made it to VA. 3 states finished…only 11 to go! Trail is in VA for 500+ miles. Most of any state. Will be June before through VA!

Only took about 4 hrs to hike the 12 miles to Damascus. I’m always a little faster when nearing a town plus trail had fewer rocks and tree roots than usual. The rocks and roots are a trip risk plus they just beat your feet up.

Trail goes right through Damascus, a small town with a population fewer than 1000. Very dependent on hikers and hosts a Trail Days Festival every May (3rd weekend). This is a big celebration for past and current thru-hikers.

Spending next 2 nights at Lazy Fix B&B. Owned by Ginny Adams for past 20 years. She is 92 and in great shape. Rumor has it her breakfast is fantastic. Will find out in AM!

Had dinner at Hey Joe’s Mexican Restaurant. Very good. Met Mac, a Vietnam Vet who grew up in Damascus. Says he has best moonshine around. I’m invited over to his house to taste test tomorrow night. We’ll see!

Looking forward to a good day of rest tomorrow.

Happy trails!