Week 12: August 5-9, 2017

Crew 2: Brown Fork Gap Relocation

working with Smoky Mountains Hiking Club

click here for the full photo album

For week twelve, Crew 2 headed back down to Brown Fork Gap in Nantahala National Forest, NC for one last week of bushwhacking, rain, mud, and digging. Though it was the final week of the season, the Trail had plenty of challenges in store for the Crew. For a detailed description of this relocation project, be sure to check out Crew Two’s blog from Week 11.

Since the drive down to the project is usually just long enough to prevent the Crew from hiking up to the work site on the first day, they decided to make the most of it by stopping at 12 Bones in Arden, NC for some delicious barbecue. The calories came in handy during the campsite set-up, as new campsites had to be cleared through the heavy brush for the extra large crew. Once camp was established the Crew was joined by “Ox”, “Hopeful”, and Wayne of the Smoky Mountain Hiking Club who showed up just in time for a game of Werewolves. Their company and helping hands were much appreciated throughout the week.

 

The first work day could not have gone more smoothly. The weather was sunny and mild for August and the large crew was able to make an amazing amount of headway. Afterwards, they went for a relaxing swim in nearby Fontana Lake and were once again treated to dinner by the Smoky Mountains Hiking Club, this time at the Wildwood Grill in Fontana Village. Thanks again, SMHC!

Unfortunately, luck would not hold out on the second work day. The rain started sometime in the early morning and picked up through out the day. For safety reasons, the crew decided to hike in on the AT, 2.5 miles up and over Jacob’s Ladder rather than attempt the slippery skid road. Needless to say, the Crew got thoroughly drenched on their way in. Thankfully, they were able to seek refuge in Brown Fork shelter and hoped that they would be able to catch enough of a break in the rain to get at least a few hours of work in. 

For some of the volunteers, this was their first AT shelter experience and certainly turned out to be a memorable one for all. As miserable as the weather was, they were thankful to be in a dry place for lunch and enjoyed chatting with some southbound thru-hikers who were also holing up in the rain. Wayne, Crew 2’s chief meterologist, consulted the weather radar app on his phone, but unfortunately only had bad news for the Crew. There would be just enough of a break to hike out, so they took it while they could. Well, at least they can’t say they didn’t try!

Although they were unable to accomplish any work that day, the hike did provide an educational experience as volunteers were able to witness what happens to fall line trail during a heavy rain event and walked away with a more complete understanding of the purpose behind the relocations in the area.  

Although the forecast did not look very promising for the final work day, the weather finally broke and the Crew was able to finish out the week strong with a highly productive day and a safe final descent of the skid road. Back at the campsite, the Crew celebrated the victory in true Konnarock fashion with a no-bake cheesecake.

When they returned to basecamp, there was another celebration in store to close out the 2017 season properly with one final hoo-rah. Folks from the Mount Rogers Appalachian Trail Club, the US Forest Service, as well as several Konnarock alumni came out to show their appreciation and to celebrate a successful 35th season with a huge feast, music, and of course – a giant tick piñata compliments of Kathryn.

It’s hard to believe another season has come and gone. Working alongside all the wonderful folks who make up this amazing crew, one barely notices the time passing. Thanks to all partners and volunteers whose contributions were vital in making this season successful and injury-free. The AT would not be what it is without you all. Until next year… HYAW!!!!!!!

--Brian Allgood, Assistant Crew Leader