The Appalachian Trail- (D.48, 23.9 mi)

(Knot Maul Shelter --> Fort Bastian (TrueBrit) Outdoor Palace) (580 mi total)

Ha, so today was when things really started getting interesting.  I had originally planned to go around 19 miles today, but I arrived at the Chestnut Knob Shelter and read in the journal something that changed my plans.  I had previously heard (around 2 weeks ago) from a SOBO that there was a guy in Bastian, Va that ran a Dojo and would let hiker's stay there and shower for free.  The journal I read mentioned this.  So, I decided that if my phone had service I would call this guy, despite the additional 5 miles I would have to hike, and stay with him.  Luckily it did, and he answered.  Unfortunately he wouldn't be staying at the Dojo tonight, but instead was hosting a Meteor Shower party in the middle of the woods.  Without really knowing what I was getting into, I told him that I would try and make it.  Nigel (TrueBrit) is an ex-british military man and is planning on building an epic outdoor center in Bastian, Va (Fort Bastian Recreation Inc, on facebook).  I had a grueling day, and finally got in shotgun in Nigel's RangeRover and we headed to the party ha.  This was more than I could have expected, if you are ever in Bastian you must plan on staying with Nigel.....it was terribly fun to say the least.  I spent the night watching meteor's, listening to guitar, drinking, and then finally passing out in the hammock.  Random stuff like this is why the trail holds so much intrigue for folks both young and old.  It was also here that I would meet fellow hiker Mike, whom I would hike with for the next day or so.  

Chestnut Knob Shelter.  Miserable hike to get here, but so amazing when you summit.  This is where my day changed.

Nigel (TrueBrit) and his set-up.  The best camping I've done this whole time ha.

Ha, a little bit of heaven.  Not to mention the steaks Nigel's g/f Terry cooked us later in the evening.

Fort Bastian, when Nigel gets done with this place, it is going to be insane.  Were talking ziplines, equestrian, paintball, shelters, archery, camping, etc.

Your not at a random forest party without a civilian issued AR-15 with tactical MOD's.

Nigel, with g/f Terry, entertaining us with some song.  I got plenty of videos, so don't worry I let you see how funny these songs were (a lot of Irish drinking melodies).