Hiked from Sun. morn 10/30 to Mon afternoon 10/31...over 20 miles in two days which is a lot for this old (or getting old at 47) section hiker. This trip however was one of the reasons for which we hike, I think. Perfect weather, upper 60's low 70's during day and don't think it quite got to freezing Sun. night. Dazzling blue skies, almost blinding at times, especially on top of Tray Mtn. Leaf color was more muted this year than others with many trees still not showing much color. Usually by this time of year leaves are at their peak, but I think it's going to be late in the first week of Nov. (possibly 2nd week) for the peak this year. Looks like some leaves might have just turned brown.

From Unicoi to Tray Mtn. there was a freeway of humans, all enjoying the beautiful weather and in good spirits. The parking lot at the base of Tray was full of cars, literally no parking to be had at the lot itself, several folks parking down the fire road a bit. Once up and over Tray however not a soul did I see until the next day on the downhill side of Kelly Knob.

Spent the night in Addis Gap and heard numerous visitors during the night outside my tent (or maybe same visitor several times?). The sniffing did not sound like a bear..sounded more high pitched like that a 'coon might make. But, hung my food & waste bag about 35 yards away about 20 feet high and next day right below the bag was a waste pile that looked like bear scat to me. Sorry if this is too much information but it was black in color and looked large enough to have been produced by a larger animal. Anybody w/ more experience think I'm off base here?

Rest of the hike down to Dicks Creek Gap and then finishing up at Blue Ridge Gap was just sublime...wish I could have extended the hike into Tuesday however, as I was dead meat when I got to my car...I know it takes a few weeks to get into trail shape, but it's hard to imagine how thru-hikers cope with those first few weeks, which raises my admiration for what they accomplish even more.