I booked it over the next 40 miles, eager to reach hot springs. On the way I enjoyed camping at Max Patch, an epic bald with fantastic views. The sunrises and sunsets offered the best so far, and the views of the night sky were unbeatable.
I arrived in Hot Springs early in the morning and checked into a hostel. After 11 days of mud and sweat, a shower was amazing. Clean and energized, I took a seat at the kitchen counter where I learned they were looking for someone to work four shifts in the kitchen at a nearby inn. There was a wedding going on and they were short on hands. I immediately volunteered. Who says you can't earn a little money on the trail?
The kitchen work may not have been the best idea if I wanted to rest my feet, as I was standing for up to 8 hours cutting, cooking, and washing dishes. In between shifts I had the usual town chores of laundry, dishes, and resupply shopping. After my last early morning shift I slopped on the bed and informed Firefly I was joining her in staying another night. I had originally planned to leave after a nero and a zero, but I was way too tired.
My family has toured dozens of old historical houses, and I always wondered what it would be like to curl up in the beds behind the roped off walkways. Sunnybank Inn was the perfect opportunity to find out. The house was built in the 1800s and is filled with antique furniture and décor. A stay there offers a music room, library, and an amazing organic homemade dinner.
I was reluctant to leave after two nights, but Hot Springs is one of those towns where you have to get out while you can or else 20 years will go by and you wonder why you are still there.
Before we left we managed to squeeze in a fantastic soak in the hot springs water to help ease our sore muscles. While the trail is the attraction, it is good to take advantage of the unique things each town offers. After nearly four days in town, we finally headed back to the trail.
Comentários