North Pomfret, VT (USA)

With heavy rain expected in the afternoon, I thought I had enough time to squeeze in a hike. Got on the road by 0715 and headed west into Vermont. After picking up some breakfast, I drove north along the White River (VT-14) until I arrived at the AT Trailhead in West Hartford (0815). It was sunny and in the 60s - seemed like a perfect day to hike! Walked west on Quechee-West Hartford Road until I found the AT - this was actually SOBO (towards Georgia) but everything was oriented to the north. Found myself in a thick forest almost immediately and it was soon difficult to hear the traffic on I-89. Passed four old guys with backpacks and beards - they told me they’d camped out overnight in the section. In preparation for an upcoming backpacking weekend of my own, I looked at the springs/creeks all day and found (like the last few hikes) that they were dry. Looks like I’ll have to carry a lot of water if I’m going to stay out for a few days... While planning this particular hike, I’d seen the terrain in my “AWOL” AT Guide and thought “that’s generally uphill with some flat spots.” But the real world trail did fit that description - in fact, it was anything but that. Instead, I found myself constantly climbing and descending, as well as backtracking across small ridges - the experience was frustrating and I couldn’t help but feel that the Master Trail Designer was laughing at me all morning. Added to the “pain” of feeling like someone’s plaything: extremely high humidity. I was drenched, head to toe, within an hour - I didn’t have one dry thing on me and I kept thinking how rain wouldn’t actually make any difference. Meanwhile, though, I was getting worn out and started to wonder if I should turn around. Several times, just when my spirits were at their lowest, I’d come out into a huge field with amazing views. But those times would also be when the sun would glare down on me. I’d hurry back into the trees and hit a downhill - soon I’d convinced myself to continue. I passed several areas with trees that had clear tubing connected to and looped around them - I assumed those were dormant Maple Syrup producers...  As I walked, I passed four backpackers and a trail running couple with their dog, “Lulu” (they did an out/in and passed me twice). I learned later that the last three solo guy hikers (all had great beards) had stayed out on the AT ever since they started (i.e., right through the Coronavirus)! When I wasn’t passing cheerful kindred spirits, I continued in my Sisyphean task. The section was difficult because of an absolute lack of any signage in the forest - I had no idea how far I’d come or how much was left. I had to rely on the pedometer on my phone (which I didn’t want to take out of my soaked pocket), advice from hikers (I got varying levels of help there) and the time (“roughly two miles an hour means I’ll be there in 45 minutes”). I was initially excited when I crossed a gravel road (maybe an alternate way out!) but some people in a car that drove by at that exact moment told me it didn’t go anywhere near West Hartford... So I slogged on. I was so unsure about when I’d get to my turnaround point (Thistle Hill Shelter) that I almost missed the sign for it! Fortunately, I saw a hiker coming up the access trail and then moved my weary head a bit to notice the milestone. From there, the backtrack was a blur - I was so tired that I was really just going through the motions. I had previously noted major climbs I expected and counted them down, only to find I had counted wrong. I didn’t see anyone for hours and the forest was very quiet. At one point (about halfway back), I was on one of the big open balds when I felt sprinkles of light rain. I didn’t even try to avoid the impending deluge but I ended up under the canopy when it hit in force. Twenty minutes later, the “whooshing” sound was over and I eventually realized I wasn’t going to be treated to cooling showers - instead, the sun came out again. A bit later, I encountered a local man and his dog (this was a clue that I was close to the end of my hike). When I finally hit pavement again, I was quite relieved... Found three of the Thru Hikers at the bridge over the White River - they were jumping off the top! We chatted for a little bit and then I finished walking to my car (1245). The sun had come out and temps had reached 85 degrees (glad I was done). When trying to figure out how many miles I’d hiked, I encountered a problem. According to the Guide, the section should have been 9.6 miles - but my pedometer said 10.6. So I’m actually in the dark on my distance today (will trust the Guide, I guess)... I discovered that I’d drunk almost every bit of my three liters of water (glad I didn’t run out). What a challenging section! At least it’s done... I immediately drove back to Hanover and arrived just as the black clouds above opened up - thunder and lighting (“very, very frightening”). Feeling good about my hikes this week but my body is glad that tomorrow is a work day... AT Today = 4.80 miles / G.T. AT = 1592.36 miles

Warren, NH (USA)

When I woke up this morning, the forecast had moved all rain to the right (i.e., later). Couldn’t pass up an opportunity to get in another hike so I hit the road at 0715. Used NH-10 to reach NH-25A (pretty drive) and was parked at the AT Trailhead by 0800. Headed NOBO almost immediately, with overcast skies and temps in the mid 60s. I had to walk on the road for a few hundred years but then started a gentle climb into the woods. Five minutes later, I came around a corner and watched a furry shadow scamper deeper into the trees. It was a little bear cub! He tried to climb a tree while watching me but, when I started talking to him, he ran even farther away. I did wonder for a little bit whether his mama was around but I didn’t see her... Continued my climb up Ore Hill and passed a solo backpacker (older guy). I was otherwise alone. The section was a bit muddy (lots of plank “bridges”). Overall, the two climbs in the section were pleasantly gradual and the woods were “lovely, dark and deep.” I made good time to my turnaround point, NH-25C (Lake Tarleton Road). I encountered a dad and son there who were on a Father’s Day hike. I immediately turned around at the pavement, walking with them for a short time before they fell behind. A bit later, I passed two middle aged guys Somehow, I got a second wind on the backtrack leg and found myself back at my car (after about 10 miles) just after noon (1200). Decided to drive home via I-91, so I crossed the Connecticut River near Orford/Fairlee (it was much faster).  Felt really good - the terrain, temps and distance were almost the perfect mix. Loving life in the Granite State! AT Today = 5.20 miles / G.T. AT = 1587.56 miles / AT Left = 597.74 miles

Hanover, NH (USA)

After waiting out some storms to the north this afternoon, it looked sufficiently clear to try a short AT hike. At about 1730, I left my condo and drove through Etna until I reached the Trailhead on Three Mile (gravel) road. Started NOBO at 1745 with temps in the mid 70s. The canopy of branches and leaves above me was so thick that I didn’t realize it started raining during my first mile - I could only tell because of a loud “whooshing” noise. Fortunately, the downpour didn’t last long and I climbed up to the South Peak of Moose Mountain without incident. Unlike at the North Peak, there was a nice clearing on the ridge and I could see for miles across a pretty valley (including a great view of Goose Pond). I continued on the AT until I found the Moose Mountain Shelter again. Turned around immediately and made good time back to my car. Didn’t see any people at all but did get startled by a white tailed deer that bolted upon my approach. Back at my car just before 2000 after just over five miles of hiking. Was glad to be able to squeeze in this walk tonight - hoping to outwit storms again tomorrow for more mileage in support of The Prouty Fundraiser! AT Today = 2.60 miles / Grand Total AT = 1582.36 miles

West Lebanon, NH (USA)

I walked some more miles of the Mascoma River Greenway (extension of the Northern Rail Trail) this afternoon! Parked at the Price Chopper on US-4 (west side of Lebanon) at around 1800 and walked west. Like the previous walks on this section, I enjoyed the nice pavement and newly constructed bridges. Thought I’d be able to walk the almost two miles to White River Junction easily but was startled when the pavement abruptly ended about a mile from my car. I was surprised to see rails and ties rising out of the cinder path and watched a full railroad track run off into the woods. I kept following the bike trail and soon found myself in a small parking lot on Glen Road. I walked a bit further west, hoping to find the bike trail again, but it had clearly ended. When I saw a railroad bridge crossing a small stream nearby, I took a chance and walked into the woods until I reached the tracks. Walked out onto the trestle over the river - this brought back some memories from High School (jumping off a similar bridge into Bass River). At the other end of this span, though, the overgrowth was too thick to continue. Retraced my steps to the car and then tried to follow the route of the tracks through West Lebanon (in my Subaru). Was successful until just after I passed the Skate Park - the tracks dissolved into the urban sprawl and I’d completely lost them by the time I hit NH-12A. Oh well... Guessing there is a bike path committee out there with a long term plan to finish the trail - hope I get to see that someday!  Decided that the weather was too nice to go home immediately, so drove north to the edge of the Dartmouth College campus and parked at the Dartmouth Boat House & Crew Training Facility.  I then walked across the Connecticut River on the Ledyard Bridge, admiring the views.  I checked out Foley Park (on the Vermont side) and headed back to my car.  It still wasn't dark so I drove further into the campus and checked out Occom Pond, the Dartmouth Ski Center and the Hanover Country Club.  Before I was done, I took a walk on the fairways and a riverside trail (steep drop to the river).  It was a beautiful evening and I finished walked just before the sun was completely gone (2100).  After all the exploring, I'm really looking forward to more adventures in my new town!

Moving Trip (Part 2) - Day 6

Got up at 0530 and finished packing my car.  I cleaned up the apartment one more time and then left Kingstowne in my (overloaded) Subaru at 0630.  Drove north on I-495, I-270, US-15, I-581, I-83 and I-81.  Made/Received work calls on the way... Stopped for a break near intersection of I-80 and then continued north on I-81 until I reached Binghamton (NY).  Switched to I-88 and headed towards Albany.  Made more work calls during this section.  Was glad to see that the free toll was still available at I-90...  Using Google Maps, I quickly exited the Interstate at I-890 and followed it to NY-7.  Continued on that route (with a short time on I-787) until I crossed the Hudson at Troy.  Got gas at Sunoco in Hoosick Falls (NY) at 1405 and then took VT-279 to drive around Bennington.  Then got on VT-9 to cross the mountains.  Had some slow traffic (eventually got around it) and intermittent rain but things were going OK until I got really close to Brattleboro - suddenly, there was a detour!  There was no warning about how we all needed to exit the road and take a dirt road into the mountains - all to avoid "something" (never learned what it was).  Once I got back on VT-9, I made it to I-91 easily and then drove north.  Had to take more work calls during this stretch in Vermont...  Got on I-89 and took it to Lebanon.  I arrived at my house at around 1615 and started my telework immediately.  Unpacked later in the evening - whew.  I'm happy to say that my move is finally complete!

Moving Trip (Part 2) - Day 5

I woke up early and spent the morning packing and planning for my departure the next day.  Erin texted to ask that I pick everyone up at 1000 (for Father's Day Brunch) so I waited at my apartment.  After I arrived at Nicky's, as planned, we drove to the Del Ray neighborhood in Alexandria.  We had trouble parking but I eventually found a place.  We then walked a few blocks, arriving at the Del Ray Cafe at about 1020.  We were immediately seated on a nice (covered) patio outside the restaurant.  The girls were very happy to be able to eat at a restaurant (their first time for them since the COVID-19 situation started).  We ordered some really good breakfast food and everyone ate well.  We had a nice conversation - it was great to spend time with my daughters!  We finished eating at around 1115 and walked back to our car.  The girls gave me a funny card for Father's Day and I got an REI gift card from Brenna.  After the gift exchange, we drove back to Nicky's house, where we said goodbye.  After I dropped them off, I drove over to the Hayfield area and picked up some sandwiches (for dinner and lunch on June 22) at Subway (1215).  For most of the afternoon, I worked in my apartment (continuing my cleaning and packing).  Brenna called me at about 1500 and asked if she could come over to my apartment.  I told her it was fine and she showed up about 15 minutes later and we spent more than an hour talking.  Eventually, I asked Brenna if she wanted to help me in cleaning and organizing our cars.  She agreed and we spent the next couple of hours working and continuing our chat.  At about 1900, Erin texted to ask if she could come over to my apartment to give me a gift.  When she arrived, she gave me a gift of a framed photo (of her and Brenna) and cookies (Key Lime Snaps).  We got to visit for a bit - the girls laughed a lot about a Smurf (from the Holidazzle Parade in NOV 2010) that everyone wanted me to take to New Hampshire.  After Erin left, Brenna stayed (helping me) until 2030 and we nearly completed all the packing for my departure the following day.  I spent the rest of the evening reading and went to bed at around 2200.

Moving Trip (Part 2) - Day 4

At around 0755, I texted Mollie to make sure that she and Brenna were on their way to my apartment.  They were running late so we didn't leave for Harrisonburg until about 0815. We followed the Beltway and I-66.  The weather was pretty nice, actually, and we made good time to Front Royal, where I got gas for the rental truck and Brenna’s car (0930).  We then used I-81 all the way to New Market.  We got warnings for traffic and decided to exit the Interstate onto US-211.  We continued south on VA-42 until we reached Brenna’s house in Harrisonburg (arrived at 1030).  I suggested to Mollie that she order Chick-fil-A for curbside pickup and she went with Brenna to get it.  Meanwhile, I unloaded most of the rental truck.  When they returned, we ate lunch together and then finished unloading the U-Haul.  By 1230, we had everything inside "The Rough House" and we spent the next hour dusting and vacuuming Brenna's room.  I assembled the furniture and helped Brenna arrange everything so it was ready for her return on June 22.  Mollie was extremely helpful all day and it made me feel good to watch her and Brenna work together (I told them so).  Blessings to count: Nothing was damaged enroute, all the furniture (including some living room décor left over from moves by both Dad and Mom) set nicely in place and all the pieces of the disassembled items fit back together!  End result: Brenna is feeling cozy in her new Grad Student pad (AKA “The Rough House”).  By 1345, we left Brenna’s house and headed south on US-11 to return the rental truck (Mollie was still riding with me).  There was a funny moment when we got separated from Brenna and got together again at an intersection (90 degrees off, lots of waving).  Due to COVID-19 and short staffing, we had to wait almost 30 minutes to complete the vehicle turn-in process at the U-Haul office.  Fortunately, Mollie was entertained by a funny cat.  After that, we got on the road again (in the Chrysler) and headed south on I-81.  When we reached Mount Crawford, we stopped for ice cream (I had a birthday coupon) at Smiley’s (1425).  We sat in the open back door of the minivan while we ate (weather still nice).  The girls were disappointed that they couldn’t visit the cows (closed) but were otherwise content.  By 1500, we left the creamery and headed towards home.  I drove to give Brenna a rest.  On I-81 and I-66, we got to see the Rain-X (which Brenna had applied the night before) in action during a couple of rainstorms.  Brenna and I talked during most of the drive but Mollie fell asleep.  We had to use Fairfax County Parkway at the end (traffic) but made it to my apartment just before 1700.  We emptied out Brenna's car (mostly my stuff) and discussed Father’s Day plans.  I ate a very light dinner and then resumed the cleaning in my apartment.  Once I was finished working for the day, I took a walk (was it the last one?) in the neighborhood.  I then read my book until it was time for bed (2300).  Whew - Moving Day (was this #4 this month?) completed! 

Moving Trip (Part 2) - Day 3

Woke up early to telework and got a lot done.  I did have some trouble with the U-Haul rental I'd made for Brenna's move tomorrow - eventually learned I'd need to pick it up in the afternoon (almost a full day early) because the local branch was closed on Saturdays...  Before that pickup, though, I left house at 0830 to drive to Manassas for a car wash at the Subaru dealership.  I used pretty back roads and made a work call on the way.  While they were servicing the vehicle, I took a walk nearby - it was a nice morning.  When I got my car again (0945), I made a stop at the nearby Wawa and had a sandwich made (using the gift certificate from Erin).  I drove home after that (took another work call on the way).  Brenna was waiting at my apartment so she could drive me to Maryland to pick up the U-Haul.  After using the Beltway and MD-4, we arrived in Upper Marlboro (1130) and I checked out the vehicle.  Everything seemed to be in order so we departed for home.  Brenna followed me back to Alexandria - we got separated a few times because of traffic.  We stopped at Nicky's new house to pick up some of Brenna's furniture and to drop off Mollie's bike.  Steve and Austin were also there and we quickly loaded up the truck.  By 1300, I was back in my old apartment and was able to start teleworking again.  Erin emailed to say that she had made a reservation for us at the Del Ray Cafe on Father's Day (June 21).  Mollie and Brenna looked for combination locks in the afternoon so we could secure the back of the U-Haul (they ended up borrowing one from Steve).  At about 1700, Brenna arrived at my apartment with more boxes for the move.  We got all of the furniture (some of it mine, some of it Brenna's and some of it Nicky's) out of my place and into the truck.  We also cleaned up the Chrysler and I put the rear seats back inside.  We were done with all the moving/organizing by about 1930.  I locked up the truck and we made our plans for the following day: a drive to Harrisonburg, complete furniture assembly, eat lunch at Chick-fil-A and pick up ice cream at Smiley's.  After Brenna left, I read and relaxed until it was time for bed (2200).

Moving Trip (Part 2) - Day 2

I spent the whole morning teleworking.  During a break, I picked up breakfast at McDonalds (0745) at Hayfield.  At one point, Brenna asked if she could come over to take a nap at my place - I told her it was OK.  At 1130, I left my apartment, got gas (1145) and then drove to Springfield (Edsell Road) to drop off my rental car (1215).  While waiting for a ride, I watched the nearby Amazon Delivery Center in action (so many trucks, impressive).  Erin and Mollie picked me up about 15 minutes later.  As we were driving back to my apartment, I heard some worrisome noises coming from the bottom of the car (rear axle).  This concerned me so I recommended we go see our family's trusted mechanic (Mr. Tom) to get Erin's Jeep checked (she agreed).  We got some good recommendations from the mechanic and Erin said she'd fix them later.  During this time, I got concerned about the condition of Erin's tires, so we also ended up checking out a tire place nearby so she could plan on purchasing some replacements.  Once we were done with all of the research/checking, Erin drove me home again (1330).  Brenna was still there and I gave her some of the maple syrup candies that I'd bought in New Hampshire (Erin and Mollie said they didn't want any).  I did some more telework in the afternoon.  When I finished (1730), I visited with Brenna until she was ready to leave (1900).  Spent the rest of the evening cleaning in my old apartment and went to bed at around 2230.

Moving Trip (Part 2) - Day 1

I was up early for telework - got about an hour before I had to close up my computer.  I finished packing the car and ate breakfast.  I was done with my meeting with John and Bob at 0715.  On the way out of town, I got gas for my rental car (a Volkswagon Jetta) at Irving (0730) and then took NH-120 and I-89 to the Connecticut River.  Used I-91 all the way through Hartford (CT), making work calls for most the drive.  I switched to CT-15 (Wilbur Cross Parkway) and drove across the southwest corner of Connecticut (with a bathroom break in Yalesville).  I continued southwest on CT-15 (became NY-15) all the way into New York.  At that point, my Google Maps started acting up (talked about "road closures").  Initially, I kept accepting the reroutes - this took me (via I-287 and I-87) towards the George Washington Bridge (my intended target).  However, the bridge seemed to be clobbered with cars so I then got detoured to the south (1200).  The skyline views were spectacular!  Unfortunately, I ended up on I-278 (Brooklyn-Queens Expressway), with lots more recommendations from Google to take surface streets from Brooklyn into Manhattan... That didn't seem like a good idea and I stayed on I-278 across Randalls Island.  I eventually (grudgingly) decided to settle for paying whatever tolls might come my way.  I tried out the EZ Pass in my rental car at the Robert F. Kennedy Bridge (max toll = $9.50) and the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge (max toll = $19.00) but I wasn't sure if the box worked (I just barely got it open in time on the first bridge).  Even after all that effort, though, the traffic was HORRIBLE.  I was worried throughout my visit to the Five Boroughs that I would get a speeding ticket (or worse)...  [later, I figured out I'd weathered the trip OK]  Once I was on Staten Island, it seemed like the worst was over.  However, before incurring another toll, I ended up taking NY-440 and crossing over to New Jersey.  I then followed NY-440 (and a bit of I-287) to reach US-1 and continued southwest.  After all the delays and craziness, I was finally able to make a stop for another bathroom break near Monmouth Junction.  Took some side streets (Google helping me to avoid more tolls) through Trenton and then got on I-295, which took me to I-95.  The weather, which had been mostly sunny, started to turn dark, with occasional sprinkles. I did get a reroute (around nasty traffic) just east of Wilmington, Delaware and decided I'd had enough of the "fast way home".  I got off I-95 at DE-896 and made my way (via back roads) to US-301.  Google Maps actually agreed that this route was equal to the I-95 route (that had tolls)... From there, my drive was pretty relaxed (I made one more bathroom stop at a rest area east of the Bay Bridge).  When I reached I-495, the route looked OK (traffic wise) - but then it started raining...  Everything slowed down and I didn't cross the Potomac until around 1730 - ugh.  This meant it was 10 hours after I left - I'd always known that the shorter distance was more expensive but it also took just as long (shaking my head).  Made one more detour to try to pick up a box from the UPS lockers (unsuccessful).  Got to my (old) apartment just after 1800 and ate some leftovers because I was sick of driving.  Teleworked until 2100 and then did a bit of resting and reading.  Went to bed at 2300.  Whew!

Hanover, NH (USA)

After work today, I drove northeast of Hanover on back roads until I reached the AT Trailhead on Goose Pond Road. Started SOBO at 1530, with clear skies and temps in the high 60s. This section had a steep climb of about 1,000 feet in the first mile - the trail leveled out a bit as I got closer to the North Peak of Moose Mountain and then I was treated to some great views of the valleys on both sides of the ridge. The next few miles consisted of gently rolling terrain - it was actually pretty easy after all the rocks, roots and mud I’d traversed to get there! The thick canopy overhead made it seem like dusk and kept me cool. I passed a dad and his son (backpacking towards the north) but didn’t see any other people or animals. However, I encountered thousands of bugs (mostly mosquitos) - they descended on me anytime I stopped to take a photo. So I kept up the speed and the hike was comfortable. When I reached the turnaround that I’d targeted (Moose Mountain Shelter), I found that the Dartmouth Outing Club had once again built a “D-shaped” shelter area, meaning that I had to hike beyond the first entry point/sign to the one on the south end - this probably added about a quarter of a mile but I didn’t mind, since it was mostly flat. Started my backtrack immediately and made good time to my car, arriving before 1830 after a little more than six miles. On the way home, I encountered a baby deer and its mother - had to wait for them to get off the road...  Felt great after three straight days on the AT!  AT Today = 3.10 miles / G.T. AT = 1579.76 miles

Franconia Notch, NH (USA)

The weather looked good again so I decided to hike at Franconia Notch! Left my house at 0930 and used US-4, NH-118, NH-25 and I-93 to get there. The drive was pleasant, with great views of Mascoma Lake, Mount Cardigan and the Kinsman/Cannon ridge at the Notch. When I arrived (1100), I found that almost all of the trailhead parking lots were full and I had trouble locating the AT crossing. Parked at The Basin area and walked north on the (paved) State Park Multipurpose Trail to Lafayette Place Campground, following the Pemigewasset River. Got a map from one of the volunteers there and then walked south again until I located the AT (East side of I-93, near Whitehouse Bridge). The day was overcast and cool (low 50s) and lots of people were out, biking, walking and picnicking. Started SOBO (1300) on the AT from the intersection of the Liberty Spring Trail, crossed under the Interstate and headed up the Cascade Brook section. There was a sign that said a bridge was out on the river above and I got more information from a dad and son who were hiking down from Lonesome Lake. They were the only people I saw on the AT during this phase. The section was initially steep but eventually leveled out - but the rocks and mud kept me busy (balance, footing). Realized when I reached Cascade Brook (1.5 miles) that I’d incorrectly identified the landmark for my turnaround in 2015. I should have noted a return to the intersection of the Kinsman Pond Trail. This added a half mile to my hike but the larger challenge was that I was going to have to cross the river without a bridge. It took a while but I found a place with (mostly) dry footing and finished the outbound leg pretty easily. Did pretty well coming back down and was going to start across the Cascade Brook again (to switch to the Cascade Trail) when I encountered a young couple with their two dogs. They all got drenched in the crossing but the humans thought they should share advice about the “best place” to get over. I waited until they had gone into the woods and then retraced my steps - didn’t fall in this time either!  Looked up as I came out of the rocks and saw that I’d had an audience (four young people). From then on, I followed a blue blazed trail to my car. This route had amazing views of several different waterfalls - very pretty. But it was also very well traveled (I stopped counting the people), slippery (rocks, mud and many roots) and included another river crossing. I was fortunate to get across unscathed during my third ford of the day but heard several couples screaming at each other about the wetness and danger. Was glad to make it to the end of the trail (1500) after almost eight miles for the day. It was a good time to be leaving - there were probably 50 bikers arriving as I left the Basin area and reached the parking lot... Felt good to be able to hike in this area again - after all my hikes on the west side of I-93, I feel like I should turn my attention to the east side. As I was leaving the area, I tried to locate the AT Trailhead at Liberty Springs but wasn't able to find it (1530).  Ended up northbound on I-93 again so kept going...  I was going to use US-302 to get back to NH-10 and I-91 but there was construction.  I got gas in Littleton (NH) at 1600 and then continued north on I-93 to the intersection with I-91 - then followed it all the way back (on the Vermont side of the Connecticut) to the Norwich exit.  Crossed back into New Hampshire and arrived at my house by 1720.  It was a great day to be outside and I'm looking forward to returning to the Franconia Notch area again!  AT Today = 1.50 miles / G.T. AT = 1576.56 miles

Benton, NH (USA)

Earlier in the week, the forecast said “rain” but when my weather app didn’t show any precipitation this morning, I got ready for a hike! Left home just after 0900 and drove north on NH-10 until I had my choice of several East-West roads that crossed the AT. Chose the northernmost one (NH-25, Mount Moosilauke Highway) and was parked at the trailhead (new Benton) by 1010. Immediately headed SOBO into the woods. Temps started in the mid 50s and only climbed up to 59 degrees during my hike - still felt pleasant in a short sleeved shirt. It was overcast and breezy but I never felt any drops of rain, thankfully. There were two steep climbs in this section (the second one, to the south, was named “Mount Mist”) but I felt strong on the outbound leg and made good time to the high ridge. The greenery obscured most views of Wachipauka Pond, which was off to the East through most of the hike, but I could see it from time to time (down a steep embankment). There was evidence (but no photo opportunities) of wildlife all day - a frightened chipmunk (the sound he made would make you think I stepped on him), two barred owls (debating “who cooks for you?”), countless birds (chirping away) and what I believe was a bear (or bears) that was rustling and crying on the woods near the trail (I heard these noises in the same place two different times). The mud was pretty nasty in places and I almost lost my footing a few times. Meanwhile, the curiously shaped (and very scant) white blazes gave me fits all day - had to break out my phone map a few times because there were several unmarked turns. Despite the challenges, made it to my turnaround point (NH-25C, Tarleton Road) successfully (after a long descent). Turned around immediately and booked back up to the ridge. It’s almost always easier to do the backtrack then the outbound - the earlier experience gives you confidence that you can do it again... Stopped for a great view of a high mountain ridge above the Pond on the way back - it confirmed again that I’ve moved to a beautiful place. Only encountered four people all day, each of them within a mile of my car - one older couple and their dog on the outbound and a middle aged couple during the backtrack. The lady in the latter pair must have been afraid of COVID-19 because she extended her sweatshirt sleeve across her hand and covered her face with it (meanwhile, the guy seemed unfazed and talked to me as he passed). Reached my car soon after I saw them (1425) and checked my pedometer - it showed I’d hiked almost 10 miles. This was backed up by the signs at both ends of the section (4.9 miles) but the trail guide said I could only count 4.6 miles. There must have been a trail reroute since 2015... Oh well - I know what I really hiked! Got on the road quickly and returned home via NH-25 and I-91 (in Vermont), arriving by 1530. Felt sore but pleased to have squeezed in some AT miles on a day where the weather worked in my favor! AT Today = 4.60 miles / Grand Total AT = 1575.16 miles

Newport, NH (USA)

I'd scheduled an appointment at the New Hampshire DMV (to get my new driver's license) at the Newport branch today - it was my first real chance to explore a new part of the Granite State and I was excited!  I teleworked early in the morning and left my condo at 0830.  I drove (via I-89) towards Concord and was on the phone with John (work conversations) for most of the way.  As a result, I ended up missing the exit for NH-10... Instead, I drove down to NH-114 and used it to reach NH-11.  Made it to Newport at 0910 and went right in for my appointment.  Had some trouble with the Virginia DMV (for some reason) but the manager said he'd research and call me back.  Hoping that it wouldn't take long, I backtracked to the Sunapee area and explored the nice houses along the lake.  I walked around for a little while near the Marina - what a beautiful day!  Eventually (1000), I gave up and went back to Lebanon.  I took a walk at the High School track and then went back to my condo to eat lunch and do some more telework.  At about 1230, the supervisor at the Newport DMV called and said he could fit me in for a (re)do of the appointment at 1330 so I immediately left and drove back (via I-89 and NH-10) to get my new license.  I was in the branch for less that 30 minutes (successful this time).  On the way home, I decided to check out the scenic route - I used NH-103 to get to Claremont (found a Market Basket) and then switched to NH-120.  Somehow, I got off track (even with my GPS) and ended up back on NH-103...  Decided to head towards the Connecticut River (and NH-12A) and that turned out to be a good idea.  I enjoyed this route and saw lots of pretty scenery (farms, covered bridges, percheron horses).  I stopped for a few minutes before I reached West Lebanon and made an online order for a snack from Panera (I picked it up at 1430) and then headed home.  Finished my telework day with a shiny new license and some more great ideas for local adventures in the future!

Lebanon, NH (USA)

After work, I drove down to Lebanon to explore a rail trail that I'd heard about to the west of town.  I'd assumed it was part of the Northern Rail Trail that I'd hiked previously but I learned that it was actually called the Mascoma River Greenway.  I parked near the NRT but walked the other direction - there was a lot of construction near the Lebanon Town Square (working the tunnel) and it took me some time to make my way across town to near where Sacred Heart Church was - I looked around nearby and eventually found an access trail to the MRG.  The difference between the NRT (gravel and mostly unimproved) and this trail (newly paved with new fences and bridges) was startling.  However, the latter's ambiance made for a very pleasant evening stroll - I walked under tall trees with great shade cover and through quiet parts of the corridor between West Lebabon and Lebanon (paralleled US-4 and the Mascoma River).  I turned around at the Price Chopper and walked back, exploring some new areas on the way.  I was finished by about 1900 - what a nice walk!

Barnard, VT (USA)

A friend from High School days (Liz) asked if we could go for a hike on the AT and I gladly agreed! The weather was forecasted to be cooler (60s) and dry, so we made plans to meet up at the AT Trailhead on Stage Road (South Pomfret, VT), just north of Suicide Six (0915). After we both arrived, we quickly shuttled one car to the other end of the targeted section, parking on Pomfret Road near Bartlett Brook Road. We then started SOBO on the AT, into the Green Mountains... Within the first 100 yards, we encountered a wide creek with no bridge. I’ve seen plenty of these over the years but it still took a while to find an easy ford. Unfortunately, Liz ended up getting both of her boots completely drenched.  Undeterred, we continued our hike - it helped that the sun was warming and drying everything. As we walked, we were surrounded by older, tall trees - in a few places, though, we crossed fields with breathtaking views of the surrounding hills. The grass in those places was at least thigh deep - a testament to the impact that COVID-19 has had on the trail usage. We stopped several times, especially on our way up the three hills (+/- 500 feet) we had to climb. We wisely avoided mud and poison ivy and kept up a steady pace. In the middle of the hike, we passed two solo guy hikers - otherwise, we saw very little evidence of people or wild animals. After reaching the end of the roughly 2.5 mile section (1145), Liz told me about a General Store nearby and suggested we get lunch there. We then drove north on Stage Road to the little town of Barnard. Other than the store, there wasn’t much else to see - but they had a great sandwich shop and picnic tables across the street. It seemed to get cooler and windier as we ate but we enjoyed our meal and had some fun conversations about old Cape Cod. After we were done (1230), Liz drove me back to my car and we said goodbye. It was great to catch up! Before going home, I decided to head back to the trailhead we’d used in the morning to tie up a loose end I’d left in 2018: a climb of the eastern side of Dana Hill. Starting at 1245, I hiked SOBO up a steep incline and appeared to reach the ridge quickly. However, what should have been an easy section ended up being harder because my inability to find the turnaround point on the summit - there were actually several places that looked like the top. So I’d be sure I didn’t miss any mileage, I decided to hike downhill (towards VT-12) on the other side of the ridge. This decision led to the bonus of seeing a large flock of wild turkeys in a big field on the hill, so it wasn’t a “mistake.” Didn’t see any people at all and made good time after I started my backtrack (about 1.5 miles from my car). I reached the road again at around 1400 (after about three miles). I was barely sweating and felt like all the effort had paid off - my trail legs had definitely returned by the end of the afternoon. When I checked my pedometer and trail guide, I calculated that I’d hiked six miles today but could only count about half that. This was due to a correction I had to make for overestimating miles on other VT sections and what appeared to be a possible reroute of the AT on Dana Hill. It’s all good, though! Just have three sections left in Vermont - may need to do some camping to finish them. It was a great day - glad Liz was able to hike with me! AT Today = 2.60 miles / G.T. AT = 1570.56 miles

Lyme, NH (USA)

I still have a lot of unpacking to do but didn’t want to miss out on a day outside! Thunderstorms and warm temps were forecast - I left my condo at about 0700, hoping to get in a few miles without getting wet. I used Etna Road, Baker Hill Road (mostly gravel) and Dorchester Road to reach the hiking zone and scouted out other AT road crossings on the way. I located the trailhead parking area at the corner of Grafton Turnpike, on the edge of the Dartmouth Skiway property, at about 0745. I noticed that I was in the vicinity of Lyme township and, while it isn’t THE Lyme of tickborne disease fame, it inspired me to apply insect repellent. After that, I headed NOBO on the muddy, overgrown trail. Clearly, the lack of Thru Hikers this year and the ATC closure of shelters on the AT also prevented regular maintenance - I was almost shoulder deep in grass during the first mile! For most of this (short) section, I was climbing up a gradual slope. Rain last night had drenched everything, so I had to watch my footing all morning. It was probably about 70 and overcast when I began but the sun came out for a little while and warmed things up (closer to 80 by the time I was finished). Didn’t see any people and only saw/heard small amphibians. When I reached the crossing of Dorchester Road, I decided to backtrack to my car via the gravel surface. It was an easy walk - and scenic (horses, farms, old homes, front yard art, antiques on display, ridgeline views). I was back at my car by 0915 after almost four miles and considered hiking a bit more. But I could see dark clouds to the west and decided to stick with my original plan. I looked around near the Skiway and was entertained by a playful bear who was frolicking in the fields at the bottom of a ski run. It started sprinkling almost immediately after I got back in my car... Used Dorchester Road and NH-10 to get home - pretty quick day. Looking forward to venturing out again very soon! AT Today = 2.00 miles / Grand Total AT = 1567.96 miles / AT Left to Hike = 617.34 miles

Moving Trip (Part 1) - Day 1

The big day has finally arrived - I'm moving from Virginia to New Hampshire! I didn't sleep well and got up without my alarm.  Finished packing the U-Haul and left my apartment at 0615.  Drove north via I-495, I-270, US-15, PA-581, I-83 and I-81.  The truck was pretty full and I took it easy on the speed, especially on the hills.  The weather turned from sunny to overcast and rain eventually started.  I stopped for gas at Loves in Jonestown, PA (0850) and then tackled the first of several large hills that I had been dreading.  The truck did OK on this (and subsequent) hills but then I had to be constantly alert for open Weigh Stations (PA and VT had a requirements for ALL trucks to stop).  Fortunately, all of them (throughout the day) were closed - by the end of the trip, I didn't know if I was over or under weight!  Was forced to make a stop at a rest area just after passing I-80 to fix my windshield wiper.  I was able to dial into a work meeting that started at 1000 and that made the time go faster.  Switched to I-84 and crossed the Hudson River at Newburgh by 1155.  Started seeing a LOT of cops (speed traps) but didn't get pinched.  Sun came back out again when I was in Connecticut and the traffic was generally light.  Had to slow down (construction zone just starting) near Danbury but then had smooth sailing all the way through Hartford.  When I switched to I-91, though, I got stuck in traffic in another construction zone (four lanes converging into one).  Eventually made it through and was happy to have less traffic in Massachusetts.  Stopped for gas and a late lunch at Shell in Northampton, MA (1430) and continued north.  It got really hilly (and I saw even more cops) in Vermont but the drive on I-91 was pleasant.  Switched to I-89 and crossed the Connecticut River at around 1615 (almost 600 miles in 10 hours).  Stopped at West Lebanon (Shaws) to do some shopping (finished at 1630) and then met my new landlord (Rich) at the condo in Hanover (1645).  It was so exciting to go inside and get situated!  I spent several hours moving light items (and a bed!) out of the rental truck into my new place (had to dodge a few light rain storms).  Met almost all my new neighbors (everyone was really nice).  After I was inside for the night (1930), I did about an hours worth of work on my computer (two days of catchup) and read a bit.  Went to bed at around 2200 - I was exhausted from such a long day (week?) but felt great about my move!