Trail angels

I just wanna talk for a split second about these trail angels. I think I went into a brief description of what these people are and what they do, but I don't think that you all will grasp how much what it means for us hikers unless I explain. 

In short, trail angels are person(s) who take personal money and time to stand at points where the trail intersect with roads and disperse some amount of delight for hikers. I have heard of all kinds of trail magic and it seems to know no bounds. I had a gentleman notice my pack slightly ripped and offer to buy me a new one in Franklin, NC. I did not take him up on it, but I was astounded by the kindness he would show an utter stranger. These people are so excited that we would go on such a long pilgrimage just for the sheer enjoyment of it, that they would help us any way they can in the hopes that we will succeed. I have had a family hand me food, I have accepted rides, and I have had someone pay for my meals without my knowledge. Every single one of these acts of kindness adds up and truly makes each section of the trail that much more enjoyable and memorable. I can't help but say that I love trail angels with food. Many of my friends back home know that it is not uncommon for me to put away second or third helpings if the he offer is available. Every time I accept food from an angel I make sure and know how thankful I am that they took time to help me in such a simple or extravagant way. My  most memorable trail angel with food was on Wayah bald, NC. After an excruciatingly long trek uphill for the better part of a few miles, I rounded a bend to see 2 fold out tables filled to the brim with food. Every possible delicacy I could have wanted I gorged myself upon. The gentleman who put all this together went by the trail name kaichu, and I truly hope that I haven't spelled it wrong. He had a tent and a few fold out chairs for us to lounge in while we waited for our friends to show up and eat their fill. The day was beautiful, clear, and hot. We enjoyed Gatorade, crispy creme, and hard boiled eggs. In the cooler next to the chilled Gatorade was something I had to have 2 of, fresh oranges. That guy knew exactly what every hiker wanted and mad sure to supply some kind of tasty treat to please every hiker pallet that passed.

The most useful trail angel gift I have received was from a gentleman I met in Franklin, NC. He gave me the updated trail guide for northbound hikers. This book has helped be better plan my days and distances by showing me elevation gain, every giving numbers for hostels, and even supplying helpful hints for different towns along the way. His trail name was Intents, and just in case you ever read this sir, I cannot thank you enough. 

 

It is truly an honor to meet these people along the trail and I hope to meet many more on the way, I am not even 10 percent into the trail yet, so the possibility of finding a few more oranges or free rides still seems pretty good. Hope y'all are enjoying the read. 

Happy trails