Kevin's AT Thru Hike

Day 13, Tuesday, 3/29 – Sprite and I woke up at 7:30, and were out of camp at 9:00. We had a 12 mile hike into the Nantahala Outdoor Center, otherwise known as the NOC. The NOC is right on trail, has an outfitter, and also a restaurant. I didn’t eat enough for dinner yesterday or enough food throughout the day, knowing that there would be a restaurant at the NOC. I was craving a burger and fries the whole hike.

Sprite and I ran into Doug and Kyle along the way. Sprite knew them from her night 1, they stayed in the shelter together. Doug is retired, hiking with his son Kyle. Kyle was wearing all black clothes and a black balaclava. Sprite gave him the trail name Ninja, I think it’s going to stick. I got into the NOC and was happy to run into Corey and Colton. They were kicking back, enjoying a few beverages by the river.

Sprite and I ate at the Rivers End with Doug, Ninja, and Kathy. Kathy is supporting Doug and Kyle in an RV. Sprite introduced herself to Kathy, and excitedly told her, “I slept with your husb…” she paused, and after we all had a real good laugh, rephrased her statement, “I slept next to your husband in the shelter on night 1.”

I ordered the burger and fries. I was concerned when I ordered it that I was still going to be hungry. We all ate our meals. Doug ordered a brownie with ice cream for dessert. I ordered another burger and fries. I put it down just fine.

I ran into Birthday Sandwich and Nemo outside the NOC after lunch. I gave Birthday Sandwich his Trail Name at the brewery the other day. I met him day 1 and he had a sandwich strapped to his pack. Of course I asked him what was up with the sandwich. He said that was his birthday meal. Turns out he loves the name Birthday Sandwich. He’s going to request everyone he meets send him a photo of a sandwich on their birthday. I’m definitely going to eat a sandwich on my birthdays and send him a photo.

I met Nemo for the first time today. He had a very interesting job before thru hiking. He’s a retired nuclear operator for submarines in the Navy. I’ve never met someone who worked on, or lived in, submarines. Naturally I asked him a bunch of questions about his experiences.

I got my permit for the Great Smoky Mountains in the afternoon, which I’ll be entering in about 30 miles. It was a huge hassle because I had to do it on my phone and service was lousy.

We all sat outside talking and enjoying the sunshine. Everyone was in high spirits. I heard Parkour tell a Dad joke. He asked the group, “Have you heard about Kermit the Frog? He had the 23 and me gene testing… Turns out he’s a Tad-Polish”. I hear this in disbelief. I immediately asked Parkour where he heard this joke. Apparently he heard it from some dude at the Best Western in Blairsville. We had a good laugh when I told him that was my dad.

During the evening banter, it was suggested that my trail name be “Two Burgers.” Apparently I’m the only one who ordered 2 entrees. It was certainly a lot of food. I kinda like it. I’m going to sleep on it and see if it sticks.

I have another update about the guy carrying the spear. He was at the NOC, so I chatted with him a bit. His trail name is Half Pike. It’s clear to me that he lacks some social graces. I really feel bad for the guy. I don’t think he’s making friends. Another hiker was telling us to ignore him. I tried to include him in conversations. It also became clear to me that he doesn’t have money. I bought him a soda, and boiled water for him so he could eat a hot meal. Someone gave him a dehydrated meal that he was planning on cold soaking. I hope he finds a group, and I hope people aren’t shitty to him.