Winding Star Gap, NC - Trip Miles 107.6

Have had 5 days of rain - non-stop. Hiked 12 miles today. Called Budget Inn in Franklin, NC and got a room (had free shuttle for hikers). Poor room - hang 3 sleeping bags, pitch 1 tent, hang the other tent, hang 3 rain suits and did laundry. All dry now except boots. Ms Jeanette has enough hospitality for 1,000 hikers. She snow sealed our boots. She runs the hostel in Franklin. Met hiker friends that started with us. Had spare ribs at Cody's Roadhouse (could not eat all - saved rest for next trail meal) First Baptist church hosted breakfast for free - what a feast!