May 15 - Pecks Corner to Cammerer Lookout Tower

We hiked in the most beautiful weather ever seen in the smokies. Clear as could be.

We got to the shelter we planned on staying at 3 o'clock, which was pretty good considering we hiked 13 miles. We ate dinner, cleaned dishes, and pumped water. At 5 we packed up and hit the trail again.

There is a watch tower 4 miles away that, we heard, was in good condition. This may be our only time to sleep in a tower, so we took a chance. We were greatly rewarded. Beautiful 360 degree views. We even got to watch the sun set. Then when it was dark, we could see the bright lights of Gatlinburg.

There was no broom, just a rake. The tower needed a good sweeping. But the rake, surprisingly came in handy. As it started to get dark, Will noticed a little mouse relentlessly trying to come in under the door. We had do some creative thinking and used the rake, in combination with a water bottle and a boot, to keep the mouse out. Then Will draged my other boot next to his sleeping bag saying "Incase he gets in..."