Day 28 | Appalachian Trail Thru Hike 2024 | 200 miles! Day 3-Smokies

Day 28
Today we hit 2 exciting milestones: 200 miles and Clingman’s Dome! What a day!
Many of you have asked us how you can support us. First, your comments, kind words, prayers, and encouragement are more than enough and mean so much to us. Thank you! We love reading all the comments. We’re doing this together, y’all! 💙
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Thanks again! We’re so glad you’re here!
Inquires: [e-mail]

[@BetterWayLiving]

Really love Little Bear's comment about the quiet and being able to hear her own breathing. ❤

[@wildflowersadventures]

Me too 🙏🏼

[@stone8654]

I like the still picture of looking up through the trees 👍🏼 Go Mama Bear & Little Bear Go! 👟🐻🐻👍🏼 Congrats on 200 Miles! 😎👍🏼

[@dpresnell1]

Blessed to have such great weather in the GSM. That first deer was a buck with new antlers in velvet. Very rare to see that. They will grow much bigger. Great mileage. Keep a watch for snakes on those warm days too. Another awesome video and GREAT MILEAGE!

[@RaeBrown]

Little Bear's crunchy leaf analogy made me laugh. Love it!

[@seamistwoman]

I loved the leaf pile analogy. ❤️🤣🥰

[@kathycampbell7266]

Seriously Mama Bear! I love how you take the time to show the views all around you both! I’ve watched many many KZbinrs, and I appreciate how you take the time to explain and show us the beauty of the trail, above all the rest! ❤️

[@wildflowersadventures]

Thank you! We’re so glad you’re here. 😊

[@MaryTravels53]

Little bear walked up the ramp to Clingman’s dome like it was nothing….I almost needed oxygen!

[@AmyQ97]

Awesome 👏🏻 congratulations on 200 miles ladies! I love the smokies! ❤

[@adventuresofpineappleshort4600]

Yes! Non-crucnchy leaves are super disappointing 😂 Congrats on 200miles!!!!

[@christiinohio681]

Funny to watch how you keep forgetting what day it is the further out you get😜. Also very interesting how you couldn't wait to get away from the crowd at Clingmans Dome. You are definitely trail acclimated ❤

[@mikecarrington4297]

Congratulations for the 200 mile achievement!

[@shelliebrassler4430]

Looks like the Smokies are treating you just right 🥾 And Little Bear… every time you show us Ellie it makes me smile 😃 Thanks for sharing. Happy trails 🤩

[@gregharmon3797]

So far you have avoided the shelters👍

[@marilynm5024]

200 miles! Fantastic! Thanks for describing the smell of the pines.

[@jamesquinlivan7876]

Enjoyed your appreciation of Mother Nature, especially your description of the smell of the pine trees that surrounded you both. You were at a high enough elevation so the coniferous trees were abundant to say the least. I too stopped at Mt Collin’s shelter for that’s the name of my son. I met gentleman there who were doing a day hike in that area. I was heading South to Clingmans Dome. They told me once I got back on the AT that about a half mile past there , there would a marker( just a small piece of concrete. I never came across it) that originally held a metal rod about a few feet high that had rope through it back in the early 1800’s. Apparently these post and ropes were strung across the mountains you are now climbing to mark the divide between the territorial boundaries of the American settlers and the Native Americans at one time. Eventually the Native American tribes , Cherokees, etc were forced further West and traveled the “The Trail Of Tears” 😢 that led from their homes in mostly the Oklahoma, Arkansas etc. Great to see Miss Elle!😊. See you both tomorrow 🐱🧸🐻🥾⛰️👍. Congratulations achieving 200 Miles 👍👍

[@wildflowersadventures]

Thank you for sharing that information. Quite interesting. 😊

[@dmottley]

Beautiful day great job on 200 miles. You’re picking up speed. Black flies are brutal. They will be around for weeks. You might want a bug net to wear. Next will be mosquitos the rest of the way. Thanks for sharing. Safe travels.

[@maggieholbeck6503]

Congrats on 200 miles! Pine trees smell so good!!

[@jerrywinters6914]

You are getting closer to my area (East TN / NC )---- stay strong and hike on 🥾😃

[@alstaubin3699]

Love your videos so far. Love both your attitudes are inspiring and what an adventure especially for little bear. Keep getting those miles and smiles. You are only the second thru hiker I have supported because I love your message. 😊

[@wildflowersadventures]

Thank you so much! We appreciate your support! 🙏🏼 Thanks for sharing our journey with us. 😊

[@AztecblondieRN]

You didn't mention Clingman's Dome is the highest point you will be on the AT!! Hard to believe, it's higher than Mt. Washington in the White's. Glad you got to see the view today, despite the crowds. It's often socked in. Congratulations on 200 miles! Huge achievement!! So proud of both of you!

[@wildflowersadventures]

Thanks!

[@mb5387]

I think Little Bears “crunchy leaf” analogy was perfect. Nothing more disappointing for a kid to See a big pile of leaves and run to jump in them only to find them to be mushy. And we can tell we are traveling with Florida Bears. The excitement over the “ snow” a few weeks back and the “pig tracks” (The Appalachian folks refer to those as deer tracks).😂 Congratulations on 200 miles and 8000 subs!! Yay!

[@amynapier3551]

Congratulations on 200 miles. It's a little jarring to spend time in nature and then go to a spot that has so many people. I don't blame you. I'd want to get back on trail too. Hope you continue to enjoy the journey. You've got this.

[@jhayft0703]

I’d be running away from the crowd lol

[@wildflowersadventures]

Yeah, just a little overstimulating. It was so loud, too. It was nice to get back into the peaceful forest. 😊

[@jamesadams2334]

Congratulations on the 200-mile mark and also Clingman's Dome, the highest spot on the A.T. If you were still wondering whether you guys are getting your trail legs, just watch your video showing how much faster Little Bear is going up the ramp at Clingman's compared to the other people and you Mama Bear were doing the same speed. You two are continuing to impress me with each video. You are both hiking strong and still have great attitudes and big smiles. You both are doing so well! Hope you enjoy the remaining Smokies and again, thank you for taking us along on your hike.😎 geek

[@johnganshow5536]

200 miles a month, it will take them 11 months to hike the AT...

[@wildflowersadventures]

Thanks! We’re getting stronger everyday and it feels great! 😊

[@jamesadams2334]

@@johnganshow5536 they are at the beginning. They will get faster and put in more miles as they progress..

[@jillaubin481]

Woot! Woot! 200 miles. Then bugs sound like MN sandflies. They bite along the hairline. The bit looks like flat red dots and may have dried blood on them. You have had such great weather in the Smokies. It rained everyday except my last day. I still loved all the moss and the beauty of the Smokies. Hike on gals you are doing great. Sookie

The world as Good intended. Thank you for sharing your 2nd favorite part so far- it’s lovely indeed.

[@HikeMichigan]

Big day! 🎉Yes, we love Ellie! Psalm 3:3 Shield, glory, lifter. Provider! 🙌🙏💪🥾

[@cindyann5314]

Cheers to 200 and another wonderful video. Hope you are having the time of your lives ❤

[@michaellocke2766]

"Happy Trails" Nice views. Deer, pine trees and clingsman Dome with crowds. Back on the trails, be safe.😊

[@mhelen7360]

Absolutely gorgeous day for hiking. Weather, views, everything. Excited that you made 200 miles, AND that you got to sleep in your tent! One thing about your challenging experience of the horde of people at Clingmans Dome... If you had not gone up there, you would be wondering what you had missed! LB had a good idea about stopping if your family is driving past there on a weekday when you're headed home. Can't wait for the next video, MB and LB, Good to see AT Elle. God bless you as you continue your trek, in His timing.❤

[@dianamazzullo9065]

Great day, great views ❤. That forest looks enchanting 😊

[@rockytopwrangler2069]

Good Morning Bears ,, with the warming temps and any water on trail the mosquitoes and other bugs will get more annoying ,, on next town stop , suggest picking up a bottle of Permethrin and treat your outer wear ,packs and even outer surface of tent and fly ... as you get further north the black flies can be aweful ,, also if you dont have one pick up bug headnets ,,they can keep you from going crazy .... Stay Safe and God Bless ...

[@wildflowersadventures]

Thanks so much. All of our clothes and gear is already treated with Permethrin. I have a bottle on me as well. We will re-treat in a few weeks as well. 😊

[@RickINFJ]

💥200 miles & 8K💥 Wait til you get up here in the northeast MB, lots of evergreens. 🌲🌲 I was getting overstimulated just watching you guys approach Clingmans. I'd need a lot of silence after that. 😂 The leaf analogy made total sense LB. 🍁 So proud of you guys! 👏 ✌️

[@wildflowersadventures]

Thanks! Yeah, just a bit overstimulating for us. We’re not big into crowds anyway, so this was a little much. Glad there’s others enjoying the trails and mountains, too. 😊

[@johnalden5821]

The deer were not skittish because you were in a national park. No hunting. They have literally never had to be afraid of people, so they aren't. They would not likely let you actually touch them, but I have gotten within four feet of a deer in Shenandoah NP once. BTW/the bird you saw was likely either a grouse or a bobwhite quail. On the trees: Where you were commenting on the smell of the pines (some of them were likely other species like hemlock or cedar), I think were at an elevation above the "deciduous line." At this height, only conifers (evergreens) will do well. All the broadleaf, deciduous trees are lower down. This evergreen parkland is similar to what you would have out West, and you will see it again in NH and Maine.

[@philipholley1143]

200 miles! Way to go! Y’all are doing great. So glad it was clear at Clingman’s dome, but hate that it was so crowded. Been there twice on trail. One time clear, the next time completely socked in. You never know in the Smokies. Stay safe and stay well.

[@user-mu3ye1bz9x]

Congratulations on the 200! That was a lot of people, but yall got 200 miles! There are several areas on trail that are called the "enchanted forest" reminds people of mid-evil movies.

[@johnganshow5536]

200 miles a month, it will take them 11 months to hike the AT...

[@i4cutigers]

Congratulations on 200 Miles! Clingman's Dome, Always so crowded. The year (2003) I hiked, The roads leading to Clingman's Dome was closed due to snow, So I had the whole place to myself. It was fantastic! Good to see you again Ellie! Happy Trails. ❤and 🔦

[@mardeclardy2961]

I think sunrise at Clingman's dome is worth it. But totally understand the "too many people". Gorgeous old tree photos! You were blessed with great views. Yes, stuck on Ellie.. Too funny "whatever day it is". Happy Hiking!!😊

[@cathyparker6980]

Gotta love the Bears 🐻 🐻 mascot Ellie. ❤😻❤😻❤😻❤

[@jaapongeveer6203]

Little Bear continues to amaze!

[@donnalogan7386]

I have been up Clingman’s Dome twice on trail and was only with a few other hikers. Totally worth it but I would NOT have enjoyed those crowds! You’re doing great. Keep enjoying each day as it comes. Thanks for taking me along on your journey!

[@stanthemanhikes2965]

Always good to get to those 100 mile marks. From here on they’ll start flying by faster and faster. The forests in the Smokies are so amazing! Agreed way too many people at Glingmans Dome for you to enjoy. I happened to hit it on a day when I only had to share it with one other person 😊

[@melaniecarlisle4771]

Congratulations on your 200 mi achievement! Over 8 k subs! You both are doing great! We enjoy following your journey! Stay safe ❣️

[@Lovesracing19]

You get to see views that most people will never see. You are very lucky. The views were beautiful. Safe travels.

[@wildflowersadventures]

Indeed. We are truly blessed and grateful to be out here!

[@user-eh9pz3dr6e]

I could not see the bird little bear saw in the woods, but if almost the size of a chicken and it wings make a loud sound when it flies it might have been a grouse. Cool to see. Will startle you if you don’t see them and they are nearby and fly. Chances are you will eventually experience it on trail. Congrats on your miles 🎉. Also Congrats on hiking the smokies ❤

[@Woody.D828]

I concur -- I live in the Smokys on the NC side - I have never seen one that high in elevation, but have seen maybe a dozen grouse over e 2 decades of hiking in the park down lower in the Deep Creek NC area.

Terrific 200! Well Done Love❤ and Light!!

[@wildflowersadventures]

Thank you! Love you!! 💙

[@russellely1021]

Been to clingmans twice, once by hiking there 40 + years ago and last July. We got there early in the morning in July and it wasn't that busy, but when we got back to the lot it was full. Also noticed how worn down the AT is, wow!!!! If it wasn't for the blazes on the trees you wouldn't know you were on the trail back then. Maybe they should promote the backcountry trails that crisscross the AT to spread the hikers out a bit.

[@jhayft0703]

You both got this!!!

[@musingwithreba9667]

Happy 200 miles 😊🎉 Sorry that Clingmans Dome was a bust. Waaaaay too many people! 😮 I'd have run screaming 😂😉

[@mountainjackietr511]

Yay! way to go on the 200 miles; time to do a happy dance! Hike on, you are doing fabulous!

[@goldpop5001]

Be thankful for a beautiful day at Clingmans! They say there are only 50-55 days per year that you have those views up there.

[@wildflowersadventures]

We are! Thanks 😊

[@jujudavis65]

200! 🥳 Way to go! 💕

[@jamesbonner5989]

Congratulations on 200 miles hiked ! The bird was likely a grouse. Definitely crowded at Clingman's Dome. Got some great views today.

[@judithpearson3968]

Congrats on 200 miles. Wow. Can't imagine how it feels to walk that far. God is good! Sorry you were disappointed with Clingman's Dome. Way too many people, I agree. The forest was truly magical. The views were awesome. Thanks so much for sharing. Hi Ellie. Love seeing your sweet face each day. Ya'll take care. Stay safe. See you tomorrow.

[@wildflowersadventures]

God is soooo good! Blessed to be here! Thanks for your support. 🙏🏼💙😊

[@loririchardson3547]

We are going back to Tennessee in Aug and one of our stops is clingmans dome. We have been there before, but the group we are going with has not. I'm excited for them to see it.

[@susietopspin]

Congrats on 200 miles and happy trails.🤟🏻🥾🏔

[@CherylHollister-dl9id]

The views on Clingman’s Dome are beautiful-please don’t ever let people deter you from going back. There were some people on the dome when we went, but everyone was nice and moved over so we could see the views. We never sightsee on weekends!

[@gregharmon3797]

The bird looked like a quail, smallish bird with brown plumage

[@LookUp1991]

You can do the 15!!! Smart to listen to your bodies and try to increase mileage. Can you talk about the changes you are seeming in your bodies and hiking? Haha, I loved the “peopley “ comment. So true!! ❤

[@wildflowersadventures]

Yep, we sure can! The changes we are seeing is the ease of going up the mountains without getting as winded; legs feeling strong and taking more mileage to tire; and just overall feeling good.

[@MizSazz]

We love Elie! I totally would buy a cushion like that

[@wildflowersadventures]

💙🐾🙏🏼

[@jimmyjenkins9240]

200+ miles‼️👏👏👏

[@preacher1511]

I am a people person but isn't it funny how once you have been away from large commercial crowds for a while, you just kinda want to stay away! You have gotten acclimated to the like-minded and like-purposed folks you are hiking with and these tourists just don't seem right! I feel you, loud and clear. Happens to me if I spend as little as three or four days in the woods. MB, you hit the nail on the head, the views are just as stunning from the trail. The only notable reason for hiking up there is to say that you peaked the highest point on the AT. Watching y'all cruise up that ramp, it is clear to see that you have definitely gotten your trail legs. Guard your time and enjoy the miles you are starting to accumulate. God bless you both.

[@wildflowersadventures]

Yes!! Thank you! You get it! 🙏🏼💙

[@gregharmon3797]

Congrats on 200!!!

[@sheenarader6495]

200 Miles! A great "milestone" on your AT journey! 😊 Thank you for sharing the beautiful views and the fascinating deer! It always inspires me to see God's creations in the woods! Sorry for the crowd at Clingman's Dome, but I agree with LB that you may enjoy a family visit there on your way home, if on a week day when not so crowded!! I was surprised you did not get questioned about thru-hiking! (Maybe because you were wking too fast!) 😊 ❤ 🐻

[@wildflowersadventures]

Yes, because we were walking too fast. 😂

[@JohnPaynekj4wzo]

Congratulations on 200 Miles! Woo Hoo

[@robertcallahan1046]

Congratulations on 200 miles! Hate it was so crowded for you on Clingmans. That's a spectacular view up there. I've been there a dozen times and almost never had a view, including my thru hike. Wish you could have had more quiet time up there to enjoy it. God bless and happy trails!

[@wildflowersadventures]

Thanks so much! It was beautiful! God bless! 🙏🏼💙

[@randyboyett1366]

I understand about the crowds. Get some rest. Always hated having to go .5 off trail to the shelter. Keep up the good work and be safe. 🙏😊🙏

[@dougw63]

I like the style of your vids. It really shows the trail life. Congrats and keep enjoying those blue blazes. Will be following…and look forward to the amazing adventures and people yet to come.

[@pattyfarghaly1821]

Don't let the mileage people get to you. Your both doing awesome and I see quite a few people doing how your doing it. 🎉🥳🎉🥳. Congratulations.

[@CavemanOutdoorsMissouri]

You know that at this pace, they won't make it. I hope they increase mileage soon.

[@wildflowersadventures]

Nah, most people just like to talk and I don’t pay them any mind. I don’t even know why they’re watching our videos. 😂 Thanks for your support!

[@nancygoodwin3532]

Clingman's Dome is not always that crowded.

[@bluegrassbodhisattva9839]

Congratulations on 200 miles!!!! Good thing you are going straight thru cause Gatlinburg would be more “people busy” than Clingman’s Dome. I can understand after being on the trail it is a challenge to be bombarded with so many people. Happy Trails!

[@carl13579]

The traffic and crowds in Gatlinburg can be shocking to those of us *not* on the trail.

[@wildflowersadventures]

Very true. We have visited Gatlinburg a few times with family. No need to visit again. Plus, we were just wanting to be on trail. 😊

[@user-hk2jv4tl6f]

Hey girls,you are doing such a great job!!,it makes me so happy to see little bear doing such a great job!!,it is reassuring to see a young person doing this !!,God bless and keep y'all safe 😊

[@wildflowersadventures]

Thank you! 🙏🏼

[@davidyoung4312]

Congratulations on 200 miles, keep on trekking!

[@jayray720]

🚶‍♀️🐻🚶‍♂️🐻😺👟👟⛺🌞 the Smokies are just so magnificent I could about smell it through the TV clingmans dome is very beautiful but there are a lot of people there I don't blame you I would have got back to the woods too you both stay safe and happy hiking love and light to you both and goodnight Ellie 🐈😺

[@KarenMurphy-yh4yg]

We do love Ellie!

[@michaelbyrd1784]

Clingmans Dome is way overrated. You had to go there, but you have seen it now. No need to go back. Fantastic job ladies. You got this. Hike on and Gods speed!

[@user-eh9pz3dr6e]

When I hiked that area we left out of double springs shelter and hiked to Clingman’s dome for sunrise. Just a few section hikers there. It was cold but amazing. Very special. The tourist crowds definitely take away from the experience.

[@KarenMurphy-yh4yg]

Loved the crunchy leaf analogy! 😂😂😂

[@JerryLance-kn4ig]

U guys keep up the good work in

[@cherokeesurvival8340]

great job my ladys perfect video .. great video

[@richardharries3164]

Another great day and lovely video. LB’s analogy of the pile of leaves was really funny and it made me smile to see you two arguing (in a fun way) about the mileage. Wonderful to see you enjoying your adventure and I’m really happy that you’re taking us all along with you. Morning and evening videos - spot on!! Love and hugs.

[@whatthefunkwasithinking7645]

If you want the best view in the Smokies to (mainly) yourself, make sure to hit the Mt. Cammerer Fire lookout just past Cosby Knob Shelter (well worth 1.6 total out and back). Incredible Lord of the Rings looking place! "(no offense, b u t... ) Stay focused on you being you and don't get sucked into the thru-hike (attempter's) "entitlement" mentality that the trail is there for you, and remain happy that everyone you meet is out there enjoying nature how they want / can enjoy nature... Keep On Keepin On ~Siesta

[@wildflowersadventures]

Thanks. I think I remember saying a few times in this video that I’m glad people were out there. If I didn’t, then I’m saying it now. It’s great to know people are experiencing this beautiful nature for all of us. No entitlement here at all. In real life and on trail, I just prefer less peopley places. That’s all. 🤙🏼

[@goldpop5001]

Plus one on the Mt Cammerer tower. I skipped it when I went thru and always regretted it. Made a day trip later to see it. It is only an easy .6 off the trail.

[@KatieValleyBourdeau]

Congratulations on 200!🎉

[@staceyparker2231]

Congrats on your 200 miles!! Thanks for the videos. I absolutely love both of your energy and connection to each other. So sweet! Happy trails 😊

[@neliareal830]

It was possibly a Brown Thrusher the bird

[@janetroberson1964]

Congratulations on 200 miles!! Really enjoy watching your videos!!!

[@dbroom51]

Hey Bears! Congratulations on 200 miles! Love your videos so much! ❤️🙏❤️

[@donnahikes111]

Congratulations!! 200 miles, woot woot!!!!

[@robertbarnes4]

The weather and views have been perfect. Congrats on 200 miles👍👍

[@tammylee6342]

I loved Little Bear's leaves crunching...or lack thereof... analogy! Such a smart, creative girl!

[@celenasherrill1455]

Congratulations on 200 miles!!

[@newlexness]

Well done on 200!

[@rjsrock8]

The views at Clingman’s Dome are fantastic. We were fortunate enough to have to ourselves when we were there. Too bad that you didn’t enjoy it. Thankfully there are countless other views along the trail.

[@wildflowersadventures]

No big deal. The views from there were just as good as the ones we saw on trail…and it was quiet and peaceful. 🙏🏼💙

[@luisahirsch5654]

Congratulations on 200 miles! Yay! Clingman's Dome is beautiful, but definitely better on a weekday when less crowded. My husband and I caught an amazing sunset there a few years back! 😊

[@a.ramosakadrumgrl6677]

I just watched a short from Bryce Newbold about rain jackets. He said if rain jackets don’t have 2-3 layers with a membrane, it will wet out in a matter of minutes. He said Columbia are known for wetting out. He said Mountain Hardware and Outdoor Vitals have the 2-3 layers needed for a great rain jacket while thru hiking. Maybe order Little Bear a new jacket to pickup on one of your next stops. Best wishes!

[@jodigreanead7315]

Yay on 200 miles! 🎉

[@dajo2824]

Congrats on 200 miles. Big milestone.

[@carriehagstrom9777]

Yay, Congrats on 200 miles!

[@AmyStoneYT]

Sounds like you’ve got into Black Fly season! Those little bugs are horrible this time of year! All those people would have deterred me from the Dome! Way too many people. Congratulations 🥳 on 200 Miles though! ❤

[@johnganshow5536]

200 miles in a month? It will take 10 months to hike the AT. Love your videos!!!!

[@goldpop5001]

Actually doing the math would say 11 months. But that will all change soon. 100 miles will be finished faster as they go. The social aspect is nice but some of it will wear off. They do not have a targeted finish day but, unless they speed up considerably, they will have to get one if they want to finish this year. The more 10 mile days you do, the more 20 mile days you HAVE to do.

[@jhayft0703]

Well they did have a few days for family in there also, so my guess is they will continue to hike and get more miles later. I understand where you guys are coming from but honestly, I’m sure they will get more miles later on.

[@myleahluffman829]

Congratulations on 200 miles!! Yay!🎉 I love the smell of those evergreens! My husband and I hiked up Carver’s Gap while camping in Roan Mtn this past fall. It was the first time I think that we hiked through trees that smelled so fragrant! It does smell just like essential oils! I didn’t want to leave that area lol.

[@user-xy1dz1qg4l]

Sleep well girls and a big congratulations on 200 miles! . Stay safe and have fun.