Becket, MA (USA)

The initial inspiration for me to hike the AT came from my mother. Sometime in the 1970s, she started pointing out whenever we crossed the trail. And, the first place I recall this type of conversation was where the AT crosses the Mass Pike (I-90). Today, I hiked that very place! Packed up early and checked out of my hotel. Ate breakfast at Burger King (0645) in Lenox and then drove south on US-7/US-20. Reached the Jacobs Ladder parking lot on US-20 (on the Lee-Becket town-line) just after 0700. Had to walk down the road a short distance to the trailhead. After almost reaching the AT, I realized I’d forgotten my hat - with the seasonal tick threat, I decided to go back to get it. On the trail (SOBO) for real at 0715... It was foggy but pleasant (60s). Within the first mile, I crossed the Interstate - there were two dedicated hiker bridges and they both took me higher. Reached the ridge pretty quickly and then started a gradual descent into a big valley, bound for Upper Goose Pond. I walked through pretty cedars and was in the shade almost the whole hike. Along the edge of the lake, it was quiet and cool - really wish I had a kayak so I could escape the shore! Passed signs for a hiker cabin but didn’t detour down the side trail. Did get close to the old chimney for a turn of the Twentieth Century fishing club. On the other side of the lake, I started up another steep climb. At that point, I started to pass other hiker (all guys, two pairs and a solo). I presume they were all Thrus but only exchanged a few words with each. Felt a bit sore and was sweating a lot but managed OK with the terrain and distance. Mindful that it was the time of year when I really need to watch my vital signs (overheating, hydration, blood sugar). My turnaround point was Goose Pond Road (gravel). I wanted to do more miles but also needed to get on the road to ensure an earlier bedtime than my last trip. On the way back, I didn’t see any more people - just one deer. The lake called to me again but I kept walking towards the car... Made much better time on the way back. Finished my day (after more than 8.5 miles) at 1100. The weather had improved to a sunny 70 and I hated to leave for muggy NoVA. Got changed and got on the road, basically backtracking my entire drive from Friday (except for using MA-102, US-7 and MA/NY-23). Some traffic on I-81 but the afternoon wasn't too stressful. Got a gas fillup in Pittston (PA) at 1445. Made great time until I encountered a torrential downpour near Frederick - from there until my home, it was really slow going. Still, I was sitting on my couch just over 12 hours after starting my hike in the morning. Great weekend - hope to return to the source of inspiration again soon! AT Today = 4.30 miles / G.T. AT = 1413.52 miles