Danby, VT (USA)

It had been more than two months since I logged a single mile on the AT, so I decided that I'd get away from D.C. again to add to my total. Made it out of NoVA by 0630, got gas in Thurmont, MD (0735) and was quickly on I-81 near Harrisburg. Ate lunch in Halstead, PA (1100) and took care of some tasks (telcon). Took I-88 to get to Albany - always a pretty drive. Gas fillup in Rotterdam, NY (1350).  Crossed the Hudson at Troy and then used NY-7 to reach Vermont. Overall, the drive went well - not too much traffic but a lot of construction. Stopped at the Welcome Center for some trail maps. Weather was great all day - clear with temperatures falling as I drove north. Decided to tackle a section in Stratton that I never finished in 2014. Had to drive about 10 miles on a gravel road (with "Moose Crossing" signs) to reach the trailhead at Stratton-Arlington Road (AKA Kelley Stand Road). At 1645, headed NOBO. The trail was headed to the top of the peak (almost 4000 feet) that actually inspired the development of the AT in 1921. Benton MacKaye, the creator, took the same hike and had the breakthrough idea at the summit. As I walked, I was treated to delightful evergreen smells, elaborate bird songs and deafening silence - perfect! Saw only a few other people - almost all Long Trail and AT Thru hikers. After navigating through LOTS of mud and rocks, I made it to the top. Talked to the campsite caretaker, who told me that this was one of the best views on the AT. When I climbed up the lookout tower, I wholeheartedly agreed - pictures don't do the place justice! While climbing the rickety ladder, the first effect was passing above the highest trees - as far as the eye could see. Then I was struck by the amazing panorama - views for miles in every direction of New Hampshire, Massachusetts and New York. The view of the other mountains, especially the Adirondacks, was stunning and low clouds framed the setting sun. The breeze was brisk (temps had dropped into the 60s and it felt like 40s). I'm not usually afraid of heights but I went very slowly and carefully to the get back down (yikes)... Headed back to my car immediately, recording around 8 total miles, but barely made it before the sun went behind mountains to the west (1945). There were pretty red streaks in the clouds and a crescent moon stood out in the clear twilight sky. Would have liked to hike some more but still had to finish my drive (to Danby). Day 1 on the trail was already the energy boost - looking forward to more tomorrow! AT Today = 3.80 miles / Grand Total AT = 940.86 miles