After a rainy night , then a nice 1.5 rain-free hike down to the highway at Franconia Notch, I met friend Steve Brown (Brownie). We drove to his lovely house in Vermont where I spent two restful and fun days off trail. After the New Hampshire portion of the AT was challenging my joints and muscles, the stay at Brownie’s house was therapeutic. As my first-ever visit to Vermont I became impressed with the unique rural and independent culture the state is known for.
See my current location and daily log of my progress on the trail.
On the trail I am encouraged that the toughest portion of the AT is nearing completion. On August 4 I made the very tiring and tedius hike over the Kinsman peaks. On August 5 I hiked a very steep, uphill route along the cascading Beaver Brook to a shelter on the sloping ridge below Mt. Moosilauke, the last peak over 4,000 feet until I reach Virginia! The Northbound hikers provide clues. One told me the trail will get easy soon. Another, struggling up the tedius, steep ascent toward Mt. Wolf, replied to my “good morning” by saying, “what’s good about it!”
This is not to say the last two days were a breeze on the trail. On August 4 the trail was rocky, muddy, twisty, steep and unrelentingly hard. I slept like a rock as if the AT had physically abused my legs, knees and feet. I was filled with optimism the next day after the very steep ascent to camp was not as arduous as I previously feared. I can’t wait to reach Mt Moosilauke and begin the 40-mile walk to Vermont!
Miles so far: 390. Remaining: 1,803.
What an incredible adventure you are having! Happy to see that you are displaying your A.T. 2021 hangtag proudly. I am glad that you were able to pick one up in Monson.
Soldier on, Roger. Hopefully fewer boulders ahead!