Day 61 - Saturday 2nd July 2011

Elk Gardens to Troutdale     60 miles     DFP 3569

Said farewell to both Laura and Chuck

before following the very up and down road 80 to Meadowview.  I didn't set off until after 9, by which time the sun was up and it was hot and very humid.  Totally energy sapping.  At Meadowview I had a choice of routes.  Turn and head along Highway 11 which was probably fairly flat to reach Wytheville or continue as planned and take some minors roads going uphill to Damascus.  With how I felt energy wise and the heat/humidity decided on the former.  Got on the bike to hear someone say, "what a woose", so headed for Damascus.  Turned out a good gut change.  Was a bit of a climb to Damascus but on arrival found it full of family cyclists.  Apparently several years ago it was a dying town but a business lady decided to set up a cycle hire company which ferried cyclist to the top of a hill and it was a ride back down. It's known as the Creeper Trail. There's now 15 other companies doing the same thing.  The town also lies almost on the world renowned  Appalachian walking trail which stretches from Georgia in the south to Maine in the north.  Some 2 to 3 thousand miles.

After a large, cool drink and banana piece (sandwich to those reading this outwith Scotland) I continued on Highway 58 and whilst initially it was flat, the climbing eventually arrived.  It went on a bit but only as I'd expected.  It was in fact a surprise when things did flatten out and a smile appeared.  Picked up 603 at Konnarock and found this also to be a relatively flat road despite being near the summit of Mount Rogers, which I think is the highest peak in Virginia.  Came upon Laurel Valley Community Church which is really pretty.

Troutdale was my planned stop and ended up with 2 'luckies'.  Arrived at the shop just as it was closing and the lady mentioned the Baptist Church free hostel in the town.  Headed up and initially met Roman Wall (walking name Lone Wolf) and his big, friendly dog Max.  Next to appear were Norm and Kip Smith (walking names the Pink Panthers).  Their story is worthy of mention.  Last year, Kip was asked what she wanted for her birthday and suggested to Norm that they re-walk the Appalachian Trail (known as the AT).  Just a few thousand miles.  Quite a feat in itself but if I mention it was Kip's 80th (sorry for mentioning it Kip) and they carry all their own stuff.  Tent, sleeping bag, stove, pans, water purification etc, etc.  Just amazing.

Updated: Brookneal, Virginia (library)