Mile 151. Hostel.

As predicted, yesterday’s hike out of Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC) was a beast: 4500 feet total elevation gain in just 14 miles. Many of the hills were so steep, I could stand upright only on my tip toes. Insane.

Last night’s freeze warning inspired me to take advantage of the many hiker hostels interspersed along the trail.

This Wolf Creek Hostel is like the Taj Mahal to me. Running water, flushing toilets, hot showers, laundry … mecca! I slept like a baby!