Lenox, MA (USA)

Got an early start from town (Lenox) and located the AT Trailhead on Washington Mountain pretty quickly. I’d previously hiked into the State Forest from US-20 and wanted to connect the two sections - the parking lot also provided me with an option to hike north towards Dalton to a good turnaround but wasn’t sure I’d be up for that (weather, heat, stamina). Thinking positively, decided to tackle the southern section first - started SOBO at 0815 with pleasant temperatures (50s) and a blue sky. The first thing I noticed (and kept noticing) was the MUD. The section was mostly flat but was slow going. On the way outbound to County Road (turnaround #1), I passed four Thru hikers. Chatted with each one but spent the most time with “Thirsty Boots”, an older gentleman from Vermont who was working on his third AT Thru Hike (started March 15). He’d also competed the PCT and CDT (two times each!) and many other trails around the world. He gave me plenty of great trail vibes and, after we parted ways, I felt renewed. Soon after, I saw what I believe was a scarlet tanager - a rare treat. Made a short visit to the October Mountain Shelter - fancy - and encountered one big hill that I had to navigate to finish the section. Started my backtrack after about four miles (pedometer wasn’t accurate for some reason) and started passing different types of hikers: trail maintenance team, female backpacker duo who thought I was a moose, and some day hikers. Made better time to my car and decided I was ready for more miles! Still having trouble with mud and pedometer but the other section was only three miles. Most of the hikers I passed going NOBO were out for the day but I really enjoyed meeting up with Ford and Russell, two older guys from Western North Carolina who were two-car-hopping their was from Georgia to Maine. Wishing I was them - loved their stories of a hiking friendship. In true Tar Heel form, they invited me to join them on a hike in the Roan Highlands this Fall! After leaving them, I didn’t see anyone else until my second turnaround (Blotz Road). Didn’t stay long - headed back towards my car after a good snack. The sun went behind thickening clouds but the temps started climbing into the 70s. Did I mention the mosquitos and slippery rocks? Grrrr... Started passing Thru Hikers again on the way back but they were mostly of the “sad, wet dog” variety, with very little enthusiasm to share. The day hikers weren’t much different but they’d just left town and smiled more. I met a nice local woman who was walking with her dog - she noticed my ND backpack and we talked for a little while about ACC sports. After that, I powered through the worst of the mud until I reached Nellie (1445). It was a 14+ mile day and I felt good. and then checked back into the Knights Inn in Lenox. Ate dinner at Burger King in Lenox at 1755 and then relaxed in my room (reading/TV). Chipping away at the Bay State! AT Today = 7.30 miles / G.T. AT = 1409.22 miles