Slackpacking Trip - Day 10

Up at 0630 but the day started out wet and windy - seemed hiking was a no-go. Talked with Nicky for a bit before leaving my hotel (0845). Drove north on US-7 and soon reached a drier area (MA-8). Stopped in Cheshire and decided to give the trail a try... Picked up some snacks at a local convenience store and then located a parking area near the Ashuwillticook Rail Trail (0945). I hiked NOBO on the AT for awhile (towards Mount Graylock) and encountered a SOBO day-hike couple (with dog). Backtracked into Cheshire and continued SOBO. Highlight was the Cheshire Cobbles, a white marble rock ledge with an amazing view of the Hoosic Reservoir below. Saw lots of day hikers, despite the brisk weather... Turned around again at the Crystal Mountain Campsite (on a hill above town). Met up with two ladies who were section hiking - for a moment, I thought I might be able to get a ride from them for a longer day (it didn't work out, though...). Walking back towards my car, I found some good Trail Magic in a neighborhood on the edge of town: a fresh apple - it was good! When I reached my car again (1445) - after around 13 miles of hiking - I rested for a bit and ate a light lunch. Decided I should take advantage of the fact I had parked next to a bike trail (Ol' Reliable has been wanting to get off the bike rack). I lightened my backpack (1515) and rode south along the Reservoir (Cheshire to Lanesborough South), enjoying 12 miles of biking on a very scenic (and flat) trail. Once I'd finished for the day (1630), I headed north again on MA-8 to set up for drier weather tomorrow. Found MA-2 and stopped for ice cream at Friendly's in North Adams (1700). About half an hour later, I was on the road again, bound for Vermont. The Berkshires have been good - but the Green Mountains are calling! Found a Trail Guide recommended hotel (Catamount Hotel) in Bennington (1800) - got the hiker rate, despite some skepticism on the part of the owner... Watched TV, used the internet and got to bed early. AT Today = 6.21 miles / G.T. = 207.16 miles.