MST-106, The End

Eno River State Park, Pleasant Green towards Hillsborough, westbound

October 26, 2026. This is my final 5.2 miles of the MST. I left these miles in Segment 9 until the end, because it’s only a mile from my house, and I was planning a big celebration, with a ton of people meeting me at the end and a party at my house afterward.

But instead I chose a much quieter finish, which seemed more fitting after so many hours and miles of solo hiking.

And I’m a total introvert, so there’s that.

I began my MST journey at this very spot, in Eno River State Park, at the junction between Segments 9 and 10—almost three years ago, on November 20, 2023.

That hike was 2.5 miles (out-and-back, for a total of 5 miles). And today’s hike is about 5 miles, too! But a bit less scenic, since most of it heads right down busy US-70.

I wore a reflective vest, and re-familiarized myself with shoulder-walking.

Do you know the Muffler Man?

I timed the hike for late morning, hoping that eastbound commuter traffic would have eased off.

I stayed as far left as possible.

Yay! for recently mowed shoulders!

Boo!!!

I took a water-break at the Wayside Baptist Church. I’m halfway.

Someone shanked a few balls at the Occoneechee Golf Club.

It was less than charming, the spot where trail that leaves US-70 and heads down into the woods.

When you’re looking for the trail, it’s always been such a nice feeling, when you find the little white circle leading the way.

Even down in the woods, the trail wasn’t obvious without the white circles, although I knew that it followed the Eno River upstream.

Aaaaah, this was so pleasant after all the traffic-noise.

I slowed down for this final half mile, a little overtaken by…..sadness.

It’s hard to say goodbye to something you have loved.

But joy awaits! My faithful husband-shuttle, Loren, was at the finish line with celebratory roses.

The End.

Not half bad for a 67-year old lady.

Heartfelt thanks to:

• Mountains to Sea Trail organization
• Trail volunteers: building and maintaining
• Trail Angels who provided free shuttle rides
• Many encouragers: family and friends
• My daughter Shannon who helped me get through the 3-days of backpacking
• The husband-shuttle, Loren, for countless hours of driving and support

And to my Lord Jesus Christ, for the gift of an able body and the joy of the journey.

I’ve retired this folder, so what’s next?

Trips to visit family on the west coast, the holidays, helping with grandchildren, and a 3-week birding adventure to Texas in the spring!

And NO, I’m not planning on hiking the Appalachian Trail….