Damascus, Appalachian Trail

I woke up to the sound of rain pattering against the shelter roof, a steady rhythm that told me today was going to be a wet one. Peeking out from the shelter, I noted the thick mist hanging around the ridge, swallowing up the views I had anticipated. Instead of fresh mountain air, I was met with the damp, cool scent of the earth.

The chill of the morning settled in as I rolled up my sleeping bag, already aware that my gear was damp from the humidity. The rain wasn't letting up, and the trail ahead was sure to be muddy and slippery. With no sign of the weather clearing, I decided not to wait for a miracle. After all, this is the Appalachian Trail, and rain is just part of the adventure.

I moved into my routine, packing everything into my waterproof pack liner: sleeping bag, extra clothes, and anything else I didn't want to get soaked. My food and electronics went inside Ziploc bags for extra protection, and I kept my small tarp handy in case I needed an emergency shelter.

I pulled on my raincoat and lightweight, waterproof pants. My boots, built for mud and with good tread for grip, were about to be tested on the slippery trail. I adjusted my pack, securing the rain cover to protect my gear, and stepped out into the rain.

The trail was slick, and the mud clung to my boots as I slowly hiked down the long descent. The rain ran steadily down my face, dripping off my eyelashes. However, I still noticed the wildflowers peeking through in patches of colour against the grey backdrop. The terrain was a mixture of rocky paths and grassy balds, and occasionally, the fog would break, giving me fleeting views of the surrounding ridges. The temperature dropped with the wind, making me zip my jacket higher.

No amount of rain was going to detract from my joy as I crossed into Virginia, completing three of the 14 states, having passed through places like Watauga Lake, Limestone Cove, and Laurel Fork. After my long descent, I finished in Damascus. By now, the rain had tapered off, and the "Trail Town" vibe, with familiar faces, cosy diners, and welcoming hostels, was a refreshing change.

Damascus is a popular stop for thru-hikers to resupply, rest, or even take a zero day. It is known for its annual "Trail Days" festival, a multi-day celebration honouring AT hikers with music, games, and a hiker parade. The town is also home to the regional office of the Appalachian Trail Conservancy. Five scenic trails converge here, making it a hub for outdoor enthusiasts. Historically, Damascus was a centre for furniture making and textiles, but when these industries left in the mid-20th century, the town faced a significant economic decline. This decline, driven by de-industrialisation, mirrored the wider challenges many Appalachian communities face as traditional industries outsourced or shut down, leaving a void. However, the town found new life through its connection to the Appalachian Trail, with hikers boosting the local economy.