Cornwall Bridge, CT (USA)

It was sprinkling when I woke up so I delayed my departure from Cornwall Bridge. I ate a nice breakfast at the Country Market and then drove north on US-7 to Falls Village. Found the AT trailhead at the intersection of CT-112 and headed SOBO (0900). The first part of the hike took me up a rocky hill into a pretty hardwood forest. Almost immediately, I encountered a series of day and section hikers. I stopped to talk to the first few but discovered that there were so many mosquitos that staying stationary was nearly unbearable. Decided to keep moving throughout the day... As I walked alone the ridge line, the sound of racing (engines and screeching tires) got louder until I was able to see the track. The birds tried their best to be heard above the din and their efforts kept my spirits high. A swift moving snake crossed my path - he was just about the only wildlife I saw all day. The temperatures were good, though (60s). Turned around at the Pine Swamp Brook Shelter and arrived back to my car (after a little more than 12 miles) by 1400. Had intended to hike a few more miles but realized I'd drank all the water in my reservoir (almost three liters!). Returned to civilization to refill... Picked up "dinner" at the Citgo in Cornwall Bridge, CT (1810).  At 1830, I drove back to the same trailhead and hiked NOBO to the Water Street Parking lot (where I hiked in the snow in 2015). This section was almost completely flat and was pretty easy. The Housatonic showed another side of her personality: smooth and slow. Every section along this river has been so different! Used the Warren Turnpike to reach my car, passing a huge graduation party at the local high school, and finished the last 4+ miles by 2030.  Overall, logged about 16.5 miles today in pleasant weather. Have another day of hiking on my mind! AT Today = 8.10 miles / G.T. AT = 932.36 miles