This morning, I was was awake by 0530. I read in my room, cleaned up and packed before going to breakfast in the lobby (0700). Had hoped to look around in the gym/pool area but the hotel never opened it up for people to use. Instead, departed Gorham (NH-16) at 0800. A brother Knight recommended I visit St. Anne’s in Berlin so I attended Mass there this morning. The architecture and art within the building were quite impressive! The church was celebrating the canonization of Saint Marie Rivier (it happened in real time) and there was a large group of people in something called the "Marie Rivier Association" that had supported the overall effort. After Mass, I drove south into the center of town. I saw what looked like a really good gas price and stopped for a fill up - however, the whole thing turned out to be a "bait and switch." With prices so high lately, I was a bit disappointed... I then drove out of town on NH-110 until I found Jericho Mountain State Park. Couldn’t hike because of Mud Season but was still able to enjoy some pretty views on the lake. Will have to come back with my kayak! I drove back to Berlin, got a gas fillup at Irving (1000) and did some window shopping at the Walmart. Turned onto US-2 when I reached Gorham and then stopped to check out Moose Brook State Park. The rangers there told me they are able to divert the brook water into swimming holes so people can get a break from the Summer heat. I’m definitely going to try to get a swim there (after it’s set up for the year) on a future hot hiking day! Continued west on US-2 until I reached NH-116 (listened to audiobooks on the way). Stopped at another Walmart (the one in Littleton) and bought some biking/hiking supplies. Also went next door to get a free bag of cashews from Shaws (1205). It started raining as I continued south on US-302 (more audiobooks). Switched to NH-10 in Woodsville and planned to stop for some milk at Hatchland Farm. Unfortunately, they hadn't yet opened the new place and the (old) little shop was really crowded. Instead, continued south to Piermont and crossed the river (River Road and NH/VT-25). Stopped for another free item (yogurt) at Hannaford's in Bradford (US-5). Then got on I-91 and headed south towards home, arriving just before 1600. Not a lot of hiking miles this weekend but it was nice to get some time in the North Country!
