Sun, Feb 19 2017 - Amicalola Falls - Sunday Len Foote Hike Inn Loop (View Original Event Details)
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Amicalola Falls never disappoints. Ominous clouds threatened as we drove north toward the trailhead, but the rain never materialized. The chilly temps led us to forgo a pre-hike group photo; instead, we made quick introductions and set off along the AT Approach Trail. Pausing to regroup at the road, we chatted with two young men with loaded backpacks. They were early thru-hikers, numbers 115 and 116 on the 2017 Appalachian Trail official registry. "We're from Harrisburg, Pennsylvania," they announced, "and we're headed northbound to Katahdin." What adventures await them! We climbed steadily up Frosty Mountain, trailing #115 and #116 until we turned east toward the Hike Inn, bidding them farewell and Godspeed on their journey.
The friendly staff greeted us as we entered the dining room. Dropping our packs, we feasted on a variety of delicious treats we'd packed in: turkey & cheese sandwiches, avocado, banana, eggs, dried chili mango, cauliflower & salmon salad, and of course the old reliable PB&J. Hot coffee hit the spot as did the Inn's offering of homemade peanut butter cake.
A few quick photos, then the TLs switched places, with Marion leading the team along the Hike Inn trail and Lisa sweeping up the rear. By now the clouds had blown away, leaving clear blue skies and perfect temperatures for sleeveless hiking. We passed several families heading up toward the Inn for a President's Day overnight. And then - before we knew it - we were back to the parking lot and our starting point. We got a nice sweaty group "after" photo, admired the falls and were on our way back home. Bountiful clusters of daffodils beaming in the sunlight enhanced the pleasant drive.
Congratulations to Kyung and Ross for completing their very first D4 with the AOC. Well done!
Until next time,
Lisa and Marion