I was just in Wrightwood yesterday, hiking. I had to call the hike at Blue Ridge after an hour due to HEAVY snow and ice. I took a step and was hip deep in snow after about 2 miles. What a PITA. Prayers up for the victims.
Were you in Virigina on the Application Trail - me thinks not from the way written, but wanted to ask. I am geared up for a second attempt to thru-hike the AT starting 8 April. Pack weight is now down to 17 lbs +/- a half pound base weight before, food and water. Last year my base weight was 24 lbs. Happy hiking!