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