Second hike of the year to the summit of Blood Mountain

Second hike of the year was 4.5+ miles. Taking Byron Reece Trail at Neels Gap approach to Appalachian Trail. With the ultimate goal being to reach the 4,459 foot summit of Blood Mountain. It had just snowed and there was great water run off on most of the trail making this difficult trail even more challenging. There are multiple vista view stops along the tree line, making it seem you’re almost to the summit, but you’re not. Keep moving. 🤣 Often meeting through-hikers at the Civilian Conservation Corps’ 1930 shelter, in their attempt to hike the entire AT, Georgia-to-Maine.