Danby, VT (USA)

Forecast called for low 90s today and I should have started early - but the comfy bed made that difficult. Grabbed breakfast (McDonalds) in Rutland (0835) and then drove to the trailhead on VT-103. Started SOBO at 0900, bound for the turnaround at Bear Mountain (where I stopped on Friday). The cool streams in Clarendon Gorge were calling but I kept hiking... I didn't see anyone while I was climbing the considerable hill above Rutland - it was tiring and I was sweating profusely by the end of the first hour. I heard the cars on the highway and several airplanes today (not nearly as quiet). But I've forgotten to mention that, even when it's sunny, the thick tree canopy on the trail here can make it seem like dusk. From the ridge, the view of the Rutland-Southern Vermont Airport was amazing - there was even a chair so that hikers could take a brief rest from the climb. A bit later, I started to encounter other section hikers and had a few nice chats. But the temperatures continued to climb and I kept moving... It took all the energy I had today, under the conditions, to make it to the turn (4.60 miles) and I was relieved that it was almost entirely downhill to my car. I was exhausted and overheated, even though I'd only hiked around 10 miles by 1300. Got some energy back with a bowl of maple syrup ice cream at the Whistle Stop in North Clarendon. Headed "home" after that and took a nap. Later, I took a swim in an ice cold river (at Brad's house, across the street from Elizabeth's).  I drove into town to go shopping in Rutland at K-Mart (1830) and then went to dinner at Panera again (1845). I was able to squeeze in another hike (as the sun was setting), NOBO from US-4 to Maine Junction (1.00 miles). This was the location where I logged my last AT miles during the big Northeastern hiking Trip a few years ago (see OCT 2014).  Finished around 2000 and drove back to Danby in the dark.  Logged nearly 12 miles on the AT today, despite the heat. Feeling worn out! Sad that I have to leave in the morning... AT Today = 5.60 miles / G.T. AT = 728.68 miles