To rise at first light and leave camp by 6:00 a.m. It is a wonderful thing, and I hope to make it a habit. I spent most of today hiking solo again. It was a nice change of pace, so to speak, but I did miss my fellow hikers.

I took a nap, and was rewarded by hikers coming up to meet me. In my hammock, I was surprised to see quite a few familiar hikers come to the shelter. I hung out with them before hiking on.

I reached a section known as the “Roller Coaster,” where the trail goes up and down quite a bit in 13 miles. After the first hill, I caught up to Teabag. It was great to see my hiking friend again. We reminisced about video games late into the night.

The next morning, we got a late start. So late that we were passed by a Boy Scout troop. We hiked near them most of the day, sharing some spectacular trail magic and steep climbs.

We couldn’t believe how organized they were. Perhaps we should take a lesson from them and plan a bit more… but then again, maybe not.

Continuing on, we hiked to a hostel, watched Big Fish, and kept going. We had heard of a dinner (or “hiker feed,” as they called it) and arrived just in time for the food! It was so far the best meal on the trail.

Chicken, rice, fresh vegetables from the farm. Afterwards, pie, cake, and tea. We all slept there, our stomachs content.

The next day was only a 12-mile hike to Harpers Ferry, where I am now!

The Potomac River was an impressive sight and a good welcome to the town. I’m excited to be here, as this is the figurative half-way point of the trail. 1,000 miles down!