Appalachia

[dbarkdoll_imp]

SO.

Much planning and preparation went into this trip. As some of you may or may not know, I am planning a big trip out west in about a month and I used this trip as a sort of trial run for it. I brought everything I thought I would need to be comfortable in the high mountain passes such as extra layers and such, even though I knew I would not be using them on this trip out west. I was able to bring everything on my packing list with some room to spare, minus some extra fuel. Still playing around with my options there. I have a 1 gallon rotopax but it takes up a good portion of the rear rack and would probably be overkill. MSR bottles are another option but also take up room even when you’re not using them. A fuel bladder seems like a good option right now, need to do some research there. I am derailing already though, geeze this is gonna be a long post.

Day 1:



I left Little Rock around 8 AM on Wednesday. My original plan was to take two lane all the way to Memphis, go underneath it, and continue on through northern Mississippi to the Natchez Trace Parkway. I quickly realized this was not going to work out. The road I was on was absolutely awful, and I just hopped on the interstate. Sooo much better. Smooth as glass, quicker, and safer in many ways. Popped my headphones in and enjoyed the cruise. Got underneath Memphis with no issues there and continued on some nice, boring divided highway. I’ve been on worse roads, at least it was smooth and well maintained.



Finally made it to the Parkway for the first “nice” riding of the trip.



I think I was only on it for 30 ish miles but I enjoyed it. I can confidently say it was one of the most relaxing stretches of road I think I’ve ever done. So much so I felt myself start to get sleepy, lol. I would definitely categorize it as an “old man road”. Sorry guys. Anyway took that northbound into Tennessee until I got close to my campsite for the night. Davey Crocket State Park near Lawrenceburg TN. Decent park real close to the main road and a bunch of gas stations, which was nice. Could hear traffic and city noise though so not my favorite place I’ve ever stayed. Nabbed a nice primitive campsite next to the creek though with only two neighbors to speak of that were wayyy spread out which was nice.



Took a dip in the creek which felt great after a long day in the heat.



Made some chili on the fire and got ready for the next morning. 360 ish miles that day.