(Daily Mi: 5.0) Hiked across some steep, rolling pastures to the first road head and my maildrop in Troutville, VA which was another 0.8 miles down a narrow shoulderless road. Little room to pass me never mind pull over, and I don't even bother trying to get a hitch. Expected, among other things, my water filter which I plan to carry until (unless) the water situation improves.

Met Brother when I got back to the Trailhead. We hike on to the next road crossing picking low hanging fruit from an old orchard on the trail.

When we get to the Daleville roadhead, I realize that I should have skipped Troutville altogether.

Sad when your idea of heaven is a strip mall with a high-end supermarket for an anchor store. Take a room at the Holiday Inn near the Trail and meet Brother for all you can eat Chinese lunch by the highway.

We walk the highway to town center -- and the strip mall which also has an outfitter. Wallow in groceries. Buy a Gregory 3000-35000 pack cover. It is decently lightweight and a perfect fit for my pack.

Brother steals a shower in my room at the Holiday Inn but then hikes on. I feel like a lazy town mon