AtlantaOutdoorClub
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Sun, Oct 14 2012 - Springer Mountain Loop (Advanced hikers) (View Original Event Details)

Trip Leader(s): Bob Bunner
Participants:Bob Bunner, Jane T, Scott Sanders, Marina


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Write Up:

Four brave AOC members endured almost 17 miles of the tortutous up and downs of the Springer Mountain approach trail, a return via the Len Foote Hike Inn, and then the return trip to the Amicalola Falls parking lot.  It was an overcast day, but the fall colors leant a sheen of yellow and red as we made our way to the Southern Terminus of the Appalachian Trail.  Marina enjoyed hiking at her own pace, which was generally in front of the rest of us ("show off").  Scott entertained us with stories that led all of us to believe he should star in the next reality TV series.  Jane caught us up on her latest adventures to the Grand Canyon and Mt. LeConte.  And Bob informed the group that as the trip leader, in the event of a bear attack, he strongly advocated his Darwin philosophy that he who runs slowest gets eaten.  Almost all of us enjoyed a hearty lunch on top of Springer Mountain - Scott couldn't wait and consumed his lunch in the parking lot - as we were joined by other hikers who made it to the summit, only to be rewarded with "views" of clouds ...  and more clouds. On our return trip, we stopped at the historic and all too comfortable Len Foote Inn.  After spending time at the Inn, the last thing any of us wanted to do was to head back home.  But the group managed to pull Bob from his sitting position in an Adirondack chair, not because the group longed for his company, but because he drove and the rest of the group wanted to go home.  We made it back to the trailhead at precisely 5:00 pm, another first for a trip leader who accurately predicted when the event would end.  Look forward to seeing everyone on an event soon.