May 15: Pine Swamp Branch Shelter   Miles Today : 19.6 Total Miles : 94.4

Today started dark and ominous with storm clouds rolling in. I got a ride from the hostel to the Post Office and picked up my first mail drop for this trip. After loading up my pack with four days of food, I hitched back to the trail and started the day.

But it wasn't even ten minutes into hiking today that the rain started to fall. At first it was a slow rain and it was actually quite comfortable. But then, the temperature dropped and the rainfall increased. It was too bad since the trail actually went past some pretty cool stuff today that I was unable to really appreciate. In the heart of the storm, I went through Rice Field, a groomed bump on the ridge. I imagine that the view would have been quite nice on a better day. I stopped into the shelter here quickly for a bite to eat (to keep me warm) and then headed right back out into the downpour.

From there, it was mostly a slog along the ridge for a couple of hours, before the rain finally started to let up and the sky started to clear somewhat. And right then, that is when it happened. I saw the perfect camping spot, the spot that all other spots are envious of. At Symms Meadow, on top of the hill with a great view of the Blue Ridge was the spot of all spots. Under a great big oak tree was a good size fire ring and flat ground for about six tents. What a perfect spot had it been a better day. But since the weather was the way is was, I decided to keep moving on.

Not too much else interesting happened today. It was a much more normal day, mileage wise, today and my body is quite thankful for the extra rest. Here at the shelter tonight is YoLo, Will Scarlet, The Colonel, and River Wizard. It's a good crew, and we all have a good time taking before heading to bed.

-Chomp

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