Popped into SMKW during our vacation. Amazingly light blade. Perfect for hiking. Can't wait to get her washed up for some food prep.
Nice! It was clear enough to see way past LeConte! Last time I was up there, visibility was about 30 yards and the fog was thick. Of course, the fog rolled in about 15 minutes before I made it to the Bunion.
Most of the hike wasn't bad. The last half mile or so, the fog started to thicken. By the time I made it to the top the fog was closing in fast. I watched what little view was left disappear completely. This picture was taken immediately when I reached the top. This was before it got bad. A few moments later, all I could see off the edge of the rock was fog.
All that to say, you may have been more fortunate than you realized to get that kind of visibility. It is fairly unusual to have a cloudless sky like that in the upper elevations of the GSMNP. I lived 45 minutes from the Smokies until July. Used to spend a lot of time there, and had the panoramic views foiled by fog/clouds on several occasions.
Looking at your pics my wife and I are suddenly feeling super grateful for the awesome weather we had. lol Especially with the super limited time we have. This place is incredible. Can't believe you lived 45 minutes away you lucky bastard.
Glad you hit it at the perfect visibility. I spent a lot of my free time within the park boundary. I still have some really cool places withing a short driving distance, but not quite as majestic as the Great Smokies. I do miss them.
That awesome weather didn't hold out, but holy hell still beautiful. JG5 has been the perfect companion for this adventure. Super light weight. Oiled it up before we left. Zero rust despite it being soaking wet when we finished our hike.
My wife and I hiked Cumberland Gap through Kentucky and Virginia. JG5 has been the perfect hiking companion. I love this knife
Another spot that's making me think of home! You can see part of my grandparents' farm from the summit. Isn't the sand cave crazy? Excellent pictures. I'm really enjoying them. Looks like you are making a pretty awesome Appalachian tour. Glad you are enjoying the JG5! I've always found it an attractive knife.
Great pics, amazing scenery. Wonderful hiking buddies (both the knife and the girl ) Thanks for letting us tag along.