I am spending three days here at the lodge with my wife, before I begin my hike.  I am glad we took the time to enjoy the beauty of the park, instead of just beginning my hike. 

Today was Springer Mountain day.  We drove about 90 minutes to a parking area one mile NORTH of the beginning of the AT.  We then hiked south to the top of Springer, and took pictures of us and the plaque of the beginning of my 2185.3 mile journey.  Janet got to see the beautiful vistas and experience first hand what hiking the AT is all about, as we walked the one mile north back to the car. 

Tomorrow, we will spend time in the park.  The first mile of the approach trail is magnificent and challenging, with 604 steps along the falls for which the park is named.  We will hike this together.  The rest of the day will be spent doing nothing concerned with hiking!

Tuesday morning I begin my quest with the 8 mile approach trail. I will be on my way!