Bat's AT hiking progress

**Can't Wait** · 04-18-2011, 14:13

Looks like things are going well be safe and most of all Have Fun on your walk.

**Bat** · 04-23-2011, 02:42

I'm up in Erwin TN now. I got an infection in my leg and had to get off the trail yesterday. I went to the hospital and got some drugs. The amount of healing that has happened in the past 12 hours is amazing. I'm going to slackpack 11 miles tomorrow to test how my leg does and see how sensitive me skin is to the sun.
I'm still having the time of my life. I love all the support people give me on here and on trailjournals. Thank you, sometimes I really need it to keep going.
The trail angels are amazing. Thanks to Gordon, Sparky and Morning Glory for getting me to and from the hospital yesterday.
The epic night Mindwalk mentioned is from when we went from NC to TN to go see a Bluegrass band in a Mexican food place. Can you get any more multicultural than that?

**Bat** · 04-23-2011, 02:53

I forgot to mention how helpful having a hammock has been on this trip. I have always veen able to find a place to hang. It is also nice to get the feet up at night. I love me removeable ridgeline that I made for my hammock. It makes sitting in my hammock more comfortable and less confining.
Yesterday morning I had a tent camper sitting under my tarp eatting his breakfast while I was sitting in my hammock eatting my breakfast. He said it was the only dry ground and didn't mind being out of the rain.
I love the size of my cuben tarp. Joe at Apacks made it as wide as he could with two sheets of cuben and it has attached doors. I love the set-up, but if I was going to start earlier than I did I would go to a wider tarp for even more coverage and simplicity. Being tall it is cramped to get under the tarp when I have the edges nearly on the ground.
Other gear I love include my Gossamer Gear trekking poles with the straps. I wish the straps had a vetter adjustment system. On hot days when they are soaked in sweat I feel that the webbing slips through the buckle but it may just be the webbing sliding up my wet hands.

**hanginhillbilly** · 04-23-2011, 11:12

Bat, I could have swore I passed you in Daleville Wednesday on the way to my hang and hike but now I see your still in TN. As you hike through Catawba don't forget the Home Place Restaurant.

Keep on Keeping on

**MAD777** · 04-23-2011, 15:12

You're making good progress BAT! In a way, we are all experiencing the AT through you! Thanks!

**Bat** · 05-05-2011, 17:00

I have been off the trail for 9 days. Im still having difficulty with my leg and will be stopping my hike. It was a great experience and I will cherish every moment.

**UncleMJM** · 05-05-2011, 17:10

Hey Bat - sorry to hear about the leg problems. Thanks for keeping us posted. I envy the time you had and hope you heal quickly so you can meet the next adventure full force.

**MedicineMan** · 05-05-2011, 17:14

You're in my area now, if you need anything let me know.

**mountain_man_mike** · 05-05-2011, 18:16

Bat- you are a true inspiration. Thanks for sharing your incredible experiences with us!

**Law Dawg (ret)** · 05-05-2011, 18:45

Originally Posted by Bat

I have been off the trail for 9 days. Im still having difficulty with my leg and will be stopping my hike. It was a great experience and I will cherish every moment.

Tough call I'll wager...next time bud!