Mon 25 July Day 137
I got up super early this morning (4.35am) and was on trail to do 18mi into Monson, ME before lunch. It was one of my best days so far - 6.5hrs and I had made it to the road. The trail was easy to walk and fairly flat - only a few ups and downs plus one long hill about 3 miles to the road.
My leg held up well and I hope it lasts these final few days. This is the last town before Mt Katahdin and tomorrow I enter the 100 mile wilderness. Four days worth of food then a resupply at a hostel for two more days. Then its only 2-3 days left (depending on the weather will depend on what day I summit Katahdin).
I am at Shaws Lodging (hostel) and there are loads of hikers in (mostly NOBOs and a bunch of section hikers). We just hung out today - it's been quite warm, but not as hot as other parts of the States.
We are hanging out for breakfast as Shaws offers an AYCE for $7. Loads of pancakes, eggs, sausage, hash browns, fried potatoes (home fries) and tea/coffee/juice. Can't wait - although it's only 7.45pm so there is a lot of time to pass still. Although maybe not so bad as I will probably be in bed shortly (still a Nana)!
Won't be able to post again probably until I'm finished so just imagine the next few days full of mud, tree roots and river crossings as that is what I'll be up to.
See you all soon.
- posted by enzed :)
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
Countdown to Katahdin
Thur 21 July Day 133
I had great waffles and bacon for bfast at The Little Red Hen with fellow hikers before setting out at 9am for Stratton.
I was able to get a ride with Paul and Country Girl for $25 (saving me $125 that the hostel would have charged me!!!). We had a few stops on the way to look at Coos Canyon and the Rangley Lakes. We even saw La La as he crossed the road on trail.
It was 101 road miles from Andover to Stratton and with the stops it took us a couple of hours to get there. But it was only 11am and I had a room at the Stratton Inn in no time.
Time to relax and chill - after getting resupply food of course. Funds are running scarce so Aunty Visa bought me Ben and Jerry's along with the next few days necessities. :)
Met some new SOBOs - Moosehead, Smooth, Easy (an Aussie) and caught up with Hodgepodge again. Then Snifur and German Shepherd showed up as well. We spent the afternoon watching movies, drinking beer and eating ice cream. Hot Tub Time-Machine was quite funny and it was good to watch Reservoir Dogs again. The Last Air-Bender was awesome but one of a series so will have to keep my eye out for the others.
Late night getting to bed and must be up before 6am for a shuttle at 7am!
Fri 22 July Day 134
Up at 5.30am and feeling good. All packed up ready to go so we left at 6.40am for the trail.
It was the nicest trail I have been on for a really long time. There were heaps of ponds and woods trails. The hills were easy and I made good time again - amazing how good the flat is for my leg.
At lunch I had a swim in a pond - it was good to cool off. Saw a leech but didn't get one on me. Yummy chicken spread and tortillas for lunch and good conversation with some section hikers from Pennsylvania.
I saw 3 snakes today - the only ones since New Jersey/New York. I managed to get through to Pierce Pond Lean-to by 3.25pm, set up my mat then went straight for a swim. Magic!
Met some new section hikers and SOBOs, ate dinner and shared the usual trail stories. It's a beautiful shelter - right on the pond and we think the sunset will be an awesome one tonight.
The leg feels good. I have done my stretches and will see what tomorrow brings.
Sat 23 July Day 135
I got up early (6am) to make it to the Kennebec River by 9am. That's when the ferry service starts - it is compulsory to be shuttled across the river in a canoe as sometimes the gates are opened upstream and the water rises between 2'-4'.
Half a mile from the ferry was the road to the Caratunk Post Office. I had a parcel that I had sent ahead and needed to get a couple of things out of before sending it onto Millinocket.
All done and back on trail by 10am. The 6mi to Pleasant Pond Lean-to were really nice. Slight uphill but mostly pine forest trail.
The shelter was set back from a pond behind trees. It was about a 5min walk to a floating dock where the swimming was awesome. I lay in the sun for a bit then some guys turned up and were heading back across the pond from a golf tournament. "Would you like a beer?" "or two?". It was great - 2 cold beers and as swim on a sunny, Saturday afternoon.
Met some more SOBOs (frog catcher and Alex), section hikers and a NOBO called Munroe.
Another warm night ahead.
Sun 24 July Day 136
I slept in until 6.30am, which was later than I had expected. We had a random fireworks display on the pond last night from 9.45pm until 10.20pm. It was so loud as it echoed off the water straight into the shelter. The view was good though.
I was a bit apprehensive about today's hills - they were over 1000' climbs. But they weren't as bad as I imagined and my keg held up well for the whole day (13.1mi).
Going over the tops was great as there were lots of blueberry bushes. I ate lots of berries today. Nothing quite like a handful of sun warmed blueberries.
The decent was good too - must have been a good day. The Moxie Bald Mountain Lean-to is pond-side too. It is a beautiful day and the water is lovely.
They call these bodies of water ponds, but they are bigger than most lakes at home. I don't know what the difference is?
10 or so days to go until Mt Katahdin. Can't wait.
- posted by enzed :)
I had great waffles and bacon for bfast at The Little Red Hen with fellow hikers before setting out at 9am for Stratton.
I was able to get a ride with Paul and Country Girl for $25 (saving me $125 that the hostel would have charged me!!!). We had a few stops on the way to look at Coos Canyon and the Rangley Lakes. We even saw La La as he crossed the road on trail.
It was 101 road miles from Andover to Stratton and with the stops it took us a couple of hours to get there. But it was only 11am and I had a room at the Stratton Inn in no time.
Time to relax and chill - after getting resupply food of course. Funds are running scarce so Aunty Visa bought me Ben and Jerry's along with the next few days necessities. :)
Met some new SOBOs - Moosehead, Smooth, Easy (an Aussie) and caught up with Hodgepodge again. Then Snifur and German Shepherd showed up as well. We spent the afternoon watching movies, drinking beer and eating ice cream. Hot Tub Time-Machine was quite funny and it was good to watch Reservoir Dogs again. The Last Air-Bender was awesome but one of a series so will have to keep my eye out for the others.
Late night getting to bed and must be up before 6am for a shuttle at 7am!
Fri 22 July Day 134
Up at 5.30am and feeling good. All packed up ready to go so we left at 6.40am for the trail.
It was the nicest trail I have been on for a really long time. There were heaps of ponds and woods trails. The hills were easy and I made good time again - amazing how good the flat is for my leg.
At lunch I had a swim in a pond - it was good to cool off. Saw a leech but didn't get one on me. Yummy chicken spread and tortillas for lunch and good conversation with some section hikers from Pennsylvania.
I saw 3 snakes today - the only ones since New Jersey/New York. I managed to get through to Pierce Pond Lean-to by 3.25pm, set up my mat then went straight for a swim. Magic!
Met some new section hikers and SOBOs, ate dinner and shared the usual trail stories. It's a beautiful shelter - right on the pond and we think the sunset will be an awesome one tonight.
The leg feels good. I have done my stretches and will see what tomorrow brings.
Sat 23 July Day 135
I got up early (6am) to make it to the Kennebec River by 9am. That's when the ferry service starts - it is compulsory to be shuttled across the river in a canoe as sometimes the gates are opened upstream and the water rises between 2'-4'.
Half a mile from the ferry was the road to the Caratunk Post Office. I had a parcel that I had sent ahead and needed to get a couple of things out of before sending it onto Millinocket.
All done and back on trail by 10am. The 6mi to Pleasant Pond Lean-to were really nice. Slight uphill but mostly pine forest trail.
The shelter was set back from a pond behind trees. It was about a 5min walk to a floating dock where the swimming was awesome. I lay in the sun for a bit then some guys turned up and were heading back across the pond from a golf tournament. "Would you like a beer?" "or two?". It was great - 2 cold beers and as swim on a sunny, Saturday afternoon.
Met some more SOBOs (frog catcher and Alex), section hikers and a NOBO called Munroe.
Another warm night ahead.
Sun 24 July Day 136
I slept in until 6.30am, which was later than I had expected. We had a random fireworks display on the pond last night from 9.45pm until 10.20pm. It was so loud as it echoed off the water straight into the shelter. The view was good though.
I was a bit apprehensive about today's hills - they were over 1000' climbs. But they weren't as bad as I imagined and my keg held up well for the whole day (13.1mi).
Going over the tops was great as there were lots of blueberry bushes. I ate lots of berries today. Nothing quite like a handful of sun warmed blueberries.
The decent was good too - must have been a good day. The Moxie Bald Mountain Lean-to is pond-side too. It is a beautiful day and the water is lovely.
They call these bodies of water ponds, but they are bigger than most lakes at home. I don't know what the difference is?
10 or so days to go until Mt Katahdin. Can't wait.
- posted by enzed :)
Thursday, July 21, 2011
Thirteen down, one to go!!
Sun 17 July Day 129
The hostel stay was good. There were loads of hikers and it was nice to catch up with Calf, One Grey Wolf, Silverfox, LaLa and Moose as well as meet new SOBOs and Stitch a new NOBO I hadn't met yet.
Earl Grey and I set out after bfast and started the ups and downs. There were so many rock climbs and rambles that it took a lot out of my leg.
The leg feels ok but we will see how it is tomorrow. It's the Mahoosic Notch! Could be the best or the hardest mile on the AT then you have to climb up the mountain on the other side.
Today was nice - the views were amazing and we also crossed our last state line!! Goodbye New Hampshire, Hello Maine :)
Staying at Carlo Col Lean-to (that's Maine for shelter).
281.4 miles to go!!
Mon 18 July Day 130
Up early (5.15am) but had to haul out the 0.3mi first before getting back on trail. The weather was overcast and windy - I thought we would get rained on, but it thankfully held off.
Hills again this morning. Mt Carlo first thing, then up Goose Eye Mountain. The views were amazing from the top - we just beat the clouds through but it was windy.
Passed through the Full Goose Shelter and headed into the Mahoosuc Notch. It's either the worst or most fun mile of rock hopping/hauling/climbing. It was fun - there were some difficult parts where it was hard to see a way through and loads if "holy moly, are you serious?". We made it through in 2hrs which was ok.
The best part of the notch was the natural air conditioning. Sections of cool air would pass by. Sometimes the top half of my body was warm and my ankles were cold. It was a strange sensation.
Then the Arm came next! It was the straight up that came after the notch - it wasn't too bad for a hill climb. Lots of the steep rock face clambering. It would have been far worse coming the other way.
The views have been really nice today but I am so sore - sore enough to call it quits at Speck Pond Shelter (only a 9.5mi day).
Will look at trying to get into a town tomorrow and rest up again.
Tues 19 July Day 131
Up early to try and get off the hill. I managed the vertical climbing up Old Speck Mtn in wind and cloud (not my most reassuring moments) and down the other side - 4.5mi in 3 and a half hours! SLOW as.
The trail was really nice - wish I could have enjoyed it more.
At Grafton Notch there was a main car park. I was able to get a ride to the next main road within a few minutes. It was a really hot day and the next ride took 20mins to get, but they were able to drop me about 10mi out of Andover. A hostel worker passed by and took me the remaining way into "town". I was at the Pine Ellis Lodge by 12pm.
It is a nice place - someones home with bunk rooms and a great porch swing. There are a couple of other hikers (I met Pinch, Ollie and Dave) and it was good to see Spaceman and Rocket again. Pinch and I had cappuccino ice-cream shakes and wild strawberry smoothies. Yum!!
Earl Grey did an absolutely great 20mi day and got in about 7pm.
We went to the diner for dinner (another cheese burger for me).
Am onto plan "J" which involves skipping some hills and shuttling to Stratton, ME. It's a bit disappointing but it's just the way it is.
Wed 20 July Day 132
A zero day today started with bfast with Dave, Pinch and Earl Grey. It was sad to see them head out today though and I wish I didn't have a dumb leg!!
I basically did nothing today. Some time was spent planning the rest of the AT - looks like only 14 days or so left! That means I will finish early so I looked into train tickets and found that the cheapest one isn't until Aug 18. That's too late as I can't afford to stay anywhere that long, so will probably end up flying from New York to LA. I will have to change my flight home too.
It is crazy that time has flown by so quickly. I can't wait to catch up with everyone again though.
- posted by enzed :)
The hostel stay was good. There were loads of hikers and it was nice to catch up with Calf, One Grey Wolf, Silverfox, LaLa and Moose as well as meet new SOBOs and Stitch a new NOBO I hadn't met yet.
Earl Grey and I set out after bfast and started the ups and downs. There were so many rock climbs and rambles that it took a lot out of my leg.
The leg feels ok but we will see how it is tomorrow. It's the Mahoosic Notch! Could be the best or the hardest mile on the AT then you have to climb up the mountain on the other side.
Today was nice - the views were amazing and we also crossed our last state line!! Goodbye New Hampshire, Hello Maine :)
Staying at Carlo Col Lean-to (that's Maine for shelter).
281.4 miles to go!!
Mon 18 July Day 130
Up early (5.15am) but had to haul out the 0.3mi first before getting back on trail. The weather was overcast and windy - I thought we would get rained on, but it thankfully held off.
Hills again this morning. Mt Carlo first thing, then up Goose Eye Mountain. The views were amazing from the top - we just beat the clouds through but it was windy.
Passed through the Full Goose Shelter and headed into the Mahoosuc Notch. It's either the worst or most fun mile of rock hopping/hauling/climbing. It was fun - there were some difficult parts where it was hard to see a way through and loads if "holy moly, are you serious?". We made it through in 2hrs which was ok.
The best part of the notch was the natural air conditioning. Sections of cool air would pass by. Sometimes the top half of my body was warm and my ankles were cold. It was a strange sensation.
Then the Arm came next! It was the straight up that came after the notch - it wasn't too bad for a hill climb. Lots of the steep rock face clambering. It would have been far worse coming the other way.
The views have been really nice today but I am so sore - sore enough to call it quits at Speck Pond Shelter (only a 9.5mi day).
Will look at trying to get into a town tomorrow and rest up again.
Tues 19 July Day 131
Up early to try and get off the hill. I managed the vertical climbing up Old Speck Mtn in wind and cloud (not my most reassuring moments) and down the other side - 4.5mi in 3 and a half hours! SLOW as.
The trail was really nice - wish I could have enjoyed it more.
At Grafton Notch there was a main car park. I was able to get a ride to the next main road within a few minutes. It was a really hot day and the next ride took 20mins to get, but they were able to drop me about 10mi out of Andover. A hostel worker passed by and took me the remaining way into "town". I was at the Pine Ellis Lodge by 12pm.
It is a nice place - someones home with bunk rooms and a great porch swing. There are a couple of other hikers (I met Pinch, Ollie and Dave) and it was good to see Spaceman and Rocket again. Pinch and I had cappuccino ice-cream shakes and wild strawberry smoothies. Yum!!
Earl Grey did an absolutely great 20mi day and got in about 7pm.
We went to the diner for dinner (another cheese burger for me).
Am onto plan "J" which involves skipping some hills and shuttling to Stratton, ME. It's a bit disappointing but it's just the way it is.
Wed 20 July Day 132
A zero day today started with bfast with Dave, Pinch and Earl Grey. It was sad to see them head out today though and I wish I didn't have a dumb leg!!
I basically did nothing today. Some time was spent planning the rest of the AT - looks like only 14 days or so left! That means I will finish early so I looked into train tickets and found that the cheapest one isn't until Aug 18. That's too late as I can't afford to stay anywhere that long, so will probably end up flying from New York to LA. I will have to change my flight home too.
It is crazy that time has flown by so quickly. I can't wait to catch up with everyone again though.
- posted by enzed :)
Sunday, July 17, 2011
Mt Washington
Sat 16 July Day 128
Mary and I set out from Alton at 7am -ish for Crawford Notch. We made good time and I was on trail about 9.15am. The climb up the Crawford Track was really nice.
I called into the Mizpah Hut for water and continued onto Lakes of the Clouds. There were some good uphill rock slogs, but they were short and the weather was stunning.
I made it to LOC's hut by 1pm which I was happy with, considering I had had a week off. As I was leaving I heard my name called and Shoofly and Nero had just arrived at the hut. It was great to see them and catch up.
There was only 1.6mi to the top of Mt Washington, it was all uphill. But it was actually quite easy. The hour flew by as I rock hopped and "oohed" and "aahhhed" over the scenery. It was beautiful.
The top was a different story - lots of buildings/structures all designed to withstand the weather (ie built like brown bomb shelters) and hundreds of people lining up or milling around (they came by car or cog rail). I had lunch with Shoofly and Nero and we sat downstairs in the info centre to avoid the noise and crowds. Crazy!
I'd seen all I had to see so went tithe car park for a ride. I was lucky and got one from a Swedish couple. It was a scenic ride down the mountain too. Great to have experienced that as well. Again, I was lucky to get a ride from the end of the road with a woman who had just been cycling and she dropped me right at the door of the hostel.
How convenient :)
Leg is feeling good but I am going to have a shower and do my stretches like I should.
Catch up soon.
- posted by enzed :)
Mary and I set out from Alton at 7am -ish for Crawford Notch. We made good time and I was on trail about 9.15am. The climb up the Crawford Track was really nice.
I called into the Mizpah Hut for water and continued onto Lakes of the Clouds. There were some good uphill rock slogs, but they were short and the weather was stunning.
I made it to LOC's hut by 1pm which I was happy with, considering I had had a week off. As I was leaving I heard my name called and Shoofly and Nero had just arrived at the hut. It was great to see them and catch up.
There was only 1.6mi to the top of Mt Washington, it was all uphill. But it was actually quite easy. The hour flew by as I rock hopped and "oohed" and "aahhhed" over the scenery. It was beautiful.
The top was a different story - lots of buildings/structures all designed to withstand the weather (ie built like brown bomb shelters) and hundreds of people lining up or milling around (they came by car or cog rail). I had lunch with Shoofly and Nero and we sat downstairs in the info centre to avoid the noise and crowds. Crazy!
I'd seen all I had to see so went tithe car park for a ride. I was lucky and got one from a Swedish couple. It was a scenic ride down the mountain too. Great to have experienced that as well. Again, I was lucky to get a ride from the end of the road with a woman who had just been cycling and she dropped me right at the door of the hostel.
How convenient :)
Leg is feeling good but I am going to have a shower and do my stretches like I should.
Catch up soon.
- posted by enzed :)
Saturday, July 16, 2011
Back on track
Fri 15 July Day 127
I am feeling much better today which I am grateful for. Rest obviously was needed.
I put together the plan today. Mary returned and mentioned Earl Grey's plan for the next few days - if I want to go through the Mahoosuc Notch with someone to help, then I had to get my A into G.
I am going to get back on trail tomorrow - starting with a trip up to Mt Washington. There is a connecting trail to the AT which will take me up to Mizpah Springs Hut then along to Mt Washington. It's only about 8mi to the summit and I will get a ride down to the road and Gorham, NH.
Hopefully will get to meet up with people again. I'm excited about that.
Will keep you posted. Cross fingers for me.
- posted by enzed :)
I am feeling much better today which I am grateful for. Rest obviously was needed.
I put together the plan today. Mary returned and mentioned Earl Grey's plan for the next few days - if I want to go through the Mahoosuc Notch with someone to help, then I had to get my A into G.
I am going to get back on trail tomorrow - starting with a trip up to Mt Washington. There is a connecting trail to the AT which will take me up to Mizpah Springs Hut then along to Mt Washington. It's only about 8mi to the summit and I will get a ride down to the road and Gorham, NH.
Hopefully will get to meet up with people again. I'm excited about that.
Will keep you posted. Cross fingers for me.
- posted by enzed :)
Friday, July 15, 2011
Speedy update 2
So to add to the previous blog ...
I just had a call from the Dr who had my Lyme Disease results (super quick, only 2days) - I don't have Lyme Disease either. I don't know what's causing the tiredness now but hopefully it was just the CPK or it's just exhaustion. Either way I should be feeling better soon.
(the byline reads - we really don't know what is making you feel like this, thanks for playing, pay the bill on the way out).
- posted by enzed :)
I just had a call from the Dr who had my Lyme Disease results (super quick, only 2days) - I don't have Lyme Disease either. I don't know what's causing the tiredness now but hopefully it was just the CPK or it's just exhaustion. Either way I should be feeling better soon.
(the byline reads - we really don't know what is making you feel like this, thanks for playing, pay the bill on the way out).
- posted by enzed :)
Update from the sick
Wed 13 July Day 125
Slept well during the night thanks to the Aleve (painkillers). Didn't stop the crazy sweating but allowed more than an hours sleep at a time.
Sat and read magazines for most of the day. Then we popped down to Sandy Point for a swim. I had to use the stairs to get in (really dumb I couldn't dive in-just no energy). I also barely got under as keeping my arms and legs moving hurt too much. The water was lovely and I'm glad I at least got in.
Mary, Kyle and I played cards after dinner (Skipbo), which I hadn't played in years. Mary won most rounds but I managed the last one. Then I watched some tv before more Aleve and bed.
Thur 14 July Day 126
I still don't feel right but am off to the out-patient clinic for follow up CPK and liver function tests.
All went surprisingly quickly and I was given a number to call to get results within about an hour...yeah right!
We got back to Alton (about 1/2hr) and I gave the lab a call around 11.30am. They said they don't give results out over the phone - I had to come in with photo ID. Aye???!!! "Any other options?" I asked. The only person who could give them over the phone was the doctor who treated me - "oh, no problem, do you have his number?". Man, it was like pulling teeth. No initiative from the other end of the phone today.
I waited another couple of hours before I rang Dr Lovett (lucky we didn't hang around at the clinic as Mary would never have made it to Gorham to meet Earl Grey). He was really good as were the results, the CPK has come right back down to the low level of acceptable and liver function is just above normal (but has reduced).
But I still feel like crap (not as crap but still crap) - looks more like Lyme every day. Hope not!! But wont know until next week if I'm lucky.
We'll see what happens in next couple of days. I actually got my AT guide out today to figure out some options...
Will let you all know.
- posted by enzed :)
Slept well during the night thanks to the Aleve (painkillers). Didn't stop the crazy sweating but allowed more than an hours sleep at a time.
Sat and read magazines for most of the day. Then we popped down to Sandy Point for a swim. I had to use the stairs to get in (really dumb I couldn't dive in-just no energy). I also barely got under as keeping my arms and legs moving hurt too much. The water was lovely and I'm glad I at least got in.
Mary, Kyle and I played cards after dinner (Skipbo), which I hadn't played in years. Mary won most rounds but I managed the last one. Then I watched some tv before more Aleve and bed.
Thur 14 July Day 126
I still don't feel right but am off to the out-patient clinic for follow up CPK and liver function tests.
All went surprisingly quickly and I was given a number to call to get results within about an hour...yeah right!
We got back to Alton (about 1/2hr) and I gave the lab a call around 11.30am. They said they don't give results out over the phone - I had to come in with photo ID. Aye???!!! "Any other options?" I asked. The only person who could give them over the phone was the doctor who treated me - "oh, no problem, do you have his number?". Man, it was like pulling teeth. No initiative from the other end of the phone today.
I waited another couple of hours before I rang Dr Lovett (lucky we didn't hang around at the clinic as Mary would never have made it to Gorham to meet Earl Grey). He was really good as were the results, the CPK has come right back down to the low level of acceptable and liver function is just above normal (but has reduced).
But I still feel like crap (not as crap but still crap) - looks more like Lyme every day. Hope not!! But wont know until next week if I'm lucky.
We'll see what happens in next couple of days. I actually got my AT guide out today to figure out some options...
Will let you all know.
- posted by enzed :)
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
My abnormal diagnosis
Tue 12 July Day 124
So here's the breaking news!!
I spent the night thinking I would die (not quite, but close) and decided I should go and get tested for the things that could be killing me =). Mary was hugely generous in taking me to the nearest 'walk-in' facility in Laconia, NH.
We arrived at 12.11pm and left at 5pm with a diagnosis of "lab abnormalities" and dehydration. I'm probably always dehydrated but the lab results were more telling. I have an elevated CPK level 3 times the normal range which means that creatine phosphate kinase is leaking into my blood stream due to muscle tissue damage (that really isn't surprising) but it has been causing the intense fatigue.
I hope that's the case anyway as the only other option is Lyme Disease, which I don't get the results back from for 1-2wks!!
Either way it's a bit of a bummer as treatment for elevated CPK is to flush it out and rest for 3 weeks! (sigh). Now I have to start thinking about plan F.
Highlights of the day though:
I didn't feel any worse leaving the hospital.
John the nurse was nice and didn't even leave a bruise from the IV.
Dr Lovett had been fishing in Clinton, NZ and loved it.
Mary sat through 5 hours of crazy boredom with me.
Will keep you posted with what happens next.
Tune in next time when you'll hear, "what happened to that kiwi girl on trail? I heard she fell apart..." =)
- posted by enzed :)
So here's the breaking news!!
I spent the night thinking I would die (not quite, but close) and decided I should go and get tested for the things that could be killing me =). Mary was hugely generous in taking me to the nearest 'walk-in' facility in Laconia, NH.
We arrived at 12.11pm and left at 5pm with a diagnosis of "lab abnormalities" and dehydration. I'm probably always dehydrated but the lab results were more telling. I have an elevated CPK level 3 times the normal range which means that creatine phosphate kinase is leaking into my blood stream due to muscle tissue damage (that really isn't surprising) but it has been causing the intense fatigue.
I hope that's the case anyway as the only other option is Lyme Disease, which I don't get the results back from for 1-2wks!!
Either way it's a bit of a bummer as treatment for elevated CPK is to flush it out and rest for 3 weeks! (sigh). Now I have to start thinking about plan F.
Highlights of the day though:
I didn't feel any worse leaving the hospital.
John the nurse was nice and didn't even leave a bruise from the IV.
Dr Lovett had been fishing in Clinton, NZ and loved it.
Mary sat through 5 hours of crazy boredom with me.
Will keep you posted with what happens next.
Tune in next time when you'll hear, "what happened to that kiwi girl on trail? I heard she fell apart..." =)
- posted by enzed :)
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
Into the White Mountains, NH
Thur 7 July Day 119
I slept in until 7am which was great. English muffins and French vanilla coffee started the day well.
I had left my sunglasses at Sandy Point but we ended up going there so I was able to pick them up on the way out of town.
Just over an hour later Earl Grey and Mary dropped me in Glencliff, NH at the Hikers Welcome Hostel. I have been sitting here for a couple of hours and have decided to move on to the next shelter which is only a mile away. I'm just waiting on the post office to open to check for any packages.
So technically I will enter The Whites this afternoon. Let the big climbs begin :) Mt Moosilauke and hopefully South Kinsman tomorrow!
Fri 8 July Day 120
I stayed at Jeffers Brook Shelter the night and headed out early (6am) to tackle Moosilauke. It was a nice climb up the hill and on top was just like being in the mountains at home. It was a bit windy and visibility wasn't great but I could see some of the eastern ranges but not the presidentials.
The trip down followed Beaver Brook which was nice although some parts were a bit dodgy. Steep rocks with missing steps made for some interesting decisions.
At Route 112 there was a parking lot where some day hikers got talking to me then offered up some trail magic - blueberries, carrots, green tea, water, cheese and to top it off, a beer at 1.15am. Magic!
Things basically went downhill from here. I thought I was going to be able to make Kinsman Pond Shelter, but the last mile and a half my leg started screaming at me - so I stopped at Eliza Brook Shelter. I was gutted that I could carry on as I felt good, but my dumb leg just didn't want to play ball.
Sat 9 July Day 121
Up a little later as I had a terrible sleep - I woke every hour for some reason (probably this bug I have come down with). I set out over the Kinsmans. La La (another hiker) carried my pack up South Kinsman as my leg didn't want to be hiking.
I pushed on slowly down North Kinsman to Lonesome Lake Hut where I thought I would get some help - instead a guy said that I would be able to hike through to Liberty Springs!! I could barely walk up the stairs! I waited in the hut for about an hour and noticed a guy leaving - I asked if he was going to Lincoln and would he be able to drop me there.
Mike and his family are lovely people. He carried my pack the rest of the way and I walked out with Karen and Jen (thanks so much to you all).
We found Chet's house in Lincoln - he takes in hikers for donation and I basically found a bed and lay in it for the rest of the day.
I must have some kind of bug too as I feel terrible. We organized for me to get a massage tomorrow morning too - yay.
Sun 10 July day 122
I tossed and turned last night and my leg just ached so getting up was hard. But I had the massage at 9 so had to be up and about.
The massage was awesome. 90min for $70 and she found all the sore points. Unfortunately though there isn't a magic answer to fixing injuries so I'm still sore.
I slept for the rest if the day in-between reading Earl Shaeffer's book Walking With Spring.
Lots of hikers turned up late today and so there wasn't much room - they all had to sleep on the floor.
Mon 11 July Day 123
Last nights sleep was again dismal - it was like a sauna and I woke so dehydrated. I did feel a little better but the leg is still sore. Mary called and offered to pick me up so I appreciatively took her up on the offer.
I walked to the supermarket which was just around the corner and bought fruit, a smoothie and some yoghurts. I felt exhausted by the time I got there and. Sat outside eating the fruit to have a rest before heading back. I started feeling ill so went into the store to find a toilet but then realized I was going to pass out so knelt down (right outside the supermarket) before I fell down. It was a little embarrassing.
Some people came and offered help and the store manager gave me water and coke then offered to drive me back. Not a great start to getting better.
So I must have a bug of some sort or just be totally exhausted. In any case my leg won't stand the climbs of The Whites so I am going to have to come up with a different plan for finishing.
I'm gutted it hasn't gone as planned but I don't want to permanently damage something, especially as I have Nepal on the 'to do' list when I get home.
I will hang out at Mary's until Thurs then continue on, hopefully I will be in a better state by then.
- posted by enzed :)
I slept in until 7am which was great. English muffins and French vanilla coffee started the day well.
I had left my sunglasses at Sandy Point but we ended up going there so I was able to pick them up on the way out of town.
Just over an hour later Earl Grey and Mary dropped me in Glencliff, NH at the Hikers Welcome Hostel. I have been sitting here for a couple of hours and have decided to move on to the next shelter which is only a mile away. I'm just waiting on the post office to open to check for any packages.
So technically I will enter The Whites this afternoon. Let the big climbs begin :) Mt Moosilauke and hopefully South Kinsman tomorrow!
Fri 8 July Day 120
I stayed at Jeffers Brook Shelter the night and headed out early (6am) to tackle Moosilauke. It was a nice climb up the hill and on top was just like being in the mountains at home. It was a bit windy and visibility wasn't great but I could see some of the eastern ranges but not the presidentials.
The trip down followed Beaver Brook which was nice although some parts were a bit dodgy. Steep rocks with missing steps made for some interesting decisions.
At Route 112 there was a parking lot where some day hikers got talking to me then offered up some trail magic - blueberries, carrots, green tea, water, cheese and to top it off, a beer at 1.15am. Magic!
Things basically went downhill from here. I thought I was going to be able to make Kinsman Pond Shelter, but the last mile and a half my leg started screaming at me - so I stopped at Eliza Brook Shelter. I was gutted that I could carry on as I felt good, but my dumb leg just didn't want to play ball.
Sat 9 July Day 121
Up a little later as I had a terrible sleep - I woke every hour for some reason (probably this bug I have come down with). I set out over the Kinsmans. La La (another hiker) carried my pack up South Kinsman as my leg didn't want to be hiking.
I pushed on slowly down North Kinsman to Lonesome Lake Hut where I thought I would get some help - instead a guy said that I would be able to hike through to Liberty Springs!! I could barely walk up the stairs! I waited in the hut for about an hour and noticed a guy leaving - I asked if he was going to Lincoln and would he be able to drop me there.
Mike and his family are lovely people. He carried my pack the rest of the way and I walked out with Karen and Jen (thanks so much to you all).
We found Chet's house in Lincoln - he takes in hikers for donation and I basically found a bed and lay in it for the rest of the day.
I must have some kind of bug too as I feel terrible. We organized for me to get a massage tomorrow morning too - yay.
Sun 10 July day 122
I tossed and turned last night and my leg just ached so getting up was hard. But I had the massage at 9 so had to be up and about.
The massage was awesome. 90min for $70 and she found all the sore points. Unfortunately though there isn't a magic answer to fixing injuries so I'm still sore.
I slept for the rest if the day in-between reading Earl Shaeffer's book Walking With Spring.
Lots of hikers turned up late today and so there wasn't much room - they all had to sleep on the floor.
Mon 11 July Day 123
Last nights sleep was again dismal - it was like a sauna and I woke so dehydrated. I did feel a little better but the leg is still sore. Mary called and offered to pick me up so I appreciatively took her up on the offer.
I walked to the supermarket which was just around the corner and bought fruit, a smoothie and some yoghurts. I felt exhausted by the time I got there and. Sat outside eating the fruit to have a rest before heading back. I started feeling ill so went into the store to find a toilet but then realized I was going to pass out so knelt down (right outside the supermarket) before I fell down. It was a little embarrassing.
Some people came and offered help and the store manager gave me water and coke then offered to drive me back. Not a great start to getting better.
So I must have a bug of some sort or just be totally exhausted. In any case my leg won't stand the climbs of The Whites so I am going to have to come up with a different plan for finishing.
I'm gutted it hasn't gone as planned but I don't want to permanently damage something, especially as I have Nepal on the 'to do' list when I get home.
I will hang out at Mary's until Thurs then continue on, hopefully I will be in a better state by then.
- posted by enzed :)
Thursday, July 7, 2011
Few days off
Mon 4 July Day 116
My knee (and basically whole leg) is playing up again. I walked through to the road to Woodstock (where Earl Grey and I had pie and sodas) but I decided to yellow-blaze the rest of the day to Hanover.
It will give my leg a rest and hopefully I will be able to get a massage. I was lucky that a woman at the store could drop me into Woodstock where I could try and hitch to Hanover.
It only took about 20mins until a guy called Todd turned up and offered me a ride all the way into Hanover. I was in town by 1.30pm.
The next bit of fortune was running into The Colonel - who happened to have been shouted a room at the Hanover Inn by his mom ($250 per night)! Scored the best trail magic - thanks Colonel!!!
We met up with Mammoth as well that afternoon and he too stayed at the Inn. Mexican for dinner and a fireworks show out the hotel window topped off July 4th.
Tues 5 July Day 117
Real coffee and chocolate croissant for bfast at the Dirt Cowboy cafe across the road was delicious!!!
Then is was post office time - getting my gloves and long johns for the whites. Plus sorting out the extra food parcel I posted myself was a bonus.
I hung out until midday when Earl Grey's wife Mary came into town to pick him up. I have been invited to stay with them until Thurs. What luck and I am so grateful for the chance to stay in a real house and do non-hiker things.
The trip to Alton passed through countryside a lot like home. Winding roads, loads of trees and not many towns in sight. It took about 1hr 45min to reach their home.
I spent the afternoon sleeping on the recliner chair in the lounge - I must have needed the rest. I am trying to remember to do my leg exercises.
We spent the rest if the afternoon and dinner at Sue and Ricks house on Lake Winnipesaukee. We went out inthe boat while one of thief daughters skied. It was an amazing day. I would never have pictured spending time on a lake in a boat during my time in the States.
I am very lucky.
Wed 6 July Day 118
How good was it to sleep in?! Waffles for bfast while Earl Grey and I looked at the plan for the next few days (into and through The Whites).
I then spent the morning sorting food and gear and finally uploading my photos. I hadn't seen some of them for ages and it was amazing to see what we had been up to. I hope everyone enjoys them too - they are on Facebook under Enzeds Appalachian Trail, you will need to friend me and/or send me a message to view them.
The afternoon was spent back at the lake. This time we all had a go on the tube. It was so much fun to be out there. However, a storm came through and we quickly packed up and made it back to the house in time to get gear from outside before the rain.
Pizza, soda and s'mores for dinner - yum!
Heading to Glencliff tomorrow for a start into The Whites on Friday. Yep another yellow-blaze but I'd rather miss these miles than The Whites and I'm hoping my leg holds out for the last few hundred miles. Cross fingers.
- posted by enzed :)
My knee (and basically whole leg) is playing up again. I walked through to the road to Woodstock (where Earl Grey and I had pie and sodas) but I decided to yellow-blaze the rest of the day to Hanover.
It will give my leg a rest and hopefully I will be able to get a massage. I was lucky that a woman at the store could drop me into Woodstock where I could try and hitch to Hanover.
It only took about 20mins until a guy called Todd turned up and offered me a ride all the way into Hanover. I was in town by 1.30pm.
The next bit of fortune was running into The Colonel - who happened to have been shouted a room at the Hanover Inn by his mom ($250 per night)! Scored the best trail magic - thanks Colonel!!!
We met up with Mammoth as well that afternoon and he too stayed at the Inn. Mexican for dinner and a fireworks show out the hotel window topped off July 4th.
Tues 5 July Day 117
Real coffee and chocolate croissant for bfast at the Dirt Cowboy cafe across the road was delicious!!!
Then is was post office time - getting my gloves and long johns for the whites. Plus sorting out the extra food parcel I posted myself was a bonus.
I hung out until midday when Earl Grey's wife Mary came into town to pick him up. I have been invited to stay with them until Thurs. What luck and I am so grateful for the chance to stay in a real house and do non-hiker things.
The trip to Alton passed through countryside a lot like home. Winding roads, loads of trees and not many towns in sight. It took about 1hr 45min to reach their home.
I spent the afternoon sleeping on the recliner chair in the lounge - I must have needed the rest. I am trying to remember to do my leg exercises.
We spent the rest if the afternoon and dinner at Sue and Ricks house on Lake Winnipesaukee. We went out inthe boat while one of thief daughters skied. It was an amazing day. I would never have pictured spending time on a lake in a boat during my time in the States.
I am very lucky.
Wed 6 July Day 118
How good was it to sleep in?! Waffles for bfast while Earl Grey and I looked at the plan for the next few days (into and through The Whites).
I then spent the morning sorting food and gear and finally uploading my photos. I hadn't seen some of them for ages and it was amazing to see what we had been up to. I hope everyone enjoys them too - they are on Facebook under Enzeds Appalachian Trail, you will need to friend me and/or send me a message to view them.
The afternoon was spent back at the lake. This time we all had a go on the tube. It was so much fun to be out there. However, a storm came through and we quickly packed up and made it back to the house in time to get gear from outside before the rain.
Pizza, soda and s'mores for dinner - yum!
Heading to Glencliff tomorrow for a start into The Whites on Friday. Yep another yellow-blaze but I'd rather miss these miles than The Whites and I'm hoping my leg holds out for the last few hundred miles. Cross fingers.
- posted by enzed :)
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
New England - The final legs
Into Vermont (VT), New Hampshire (NH) & Maine (ME).
Mon 27 Jun Day 109
It is the first day back into the big hills and bfast was awesome. Pancakes covered in blueberries and blackberries - they were delicious. However, it all turned to custard within an hour as I got sick (maybe bfast or some bug I picked up). The first 10 miles I spent retching and wanting to pass out - it was a hideous climb over a hill into a small village called Cheshire. I got rid of 5lbs of gear at the post office to lighten my load - it helped a bit but not with the feeling sick part.
I pushed on through the rest of the day - quite slowly but still putting one foot in front of the other. It wasn't easy as that meant heading up Mt Greylock (MA's highest peak - a 2500' climb). The trail was really nice but I just couldn't enjoy it. I took photos at the top but really didn't want to be there.
Greylock is the most visited mountain in the US - it is completely accessible by car and has a lodge that people stay in. Too easy for some, huh?!
At this point of the day (5.30pm) I found the others who had been there for hours and they said I looked awful. But there were only 3 miles to go so I pushed on with help from Snifur (who ended up carrying my pack the last couple of miles so I could get in by 7.30pm). Huge thanks!!
The Wilbur Clearing Shelter had lots of tent platforms and space. The Colonel and Charlie were in the shelter and Charlie gave me some grapeseed drops to help settle my stomach (they worked well although tasted awful). A random/strange guy turned up as well - he ended up cooking food until 10pm - a little weird.
Tues 28 Jun Day 110
Woke up with a blood nose - totally needing some rest about now. But thats not really going to happen when you don't have enough food and it's resupply day! But I did decide on doing 17mi not 20something.
I felt a bit better once i was underway, but obviously not 100%. I tootled along the first 3miles to the resupply road and ended up getting a ride with "Reuben 2"s wife (she has meet me about 10 times now) to the supermarket. I got a few things although must still have been sick as I didn't get soda or chocolate milk!!
Within 4 mi of here I crossed the MA - VT (Vermont) border. Yay, another state done. Within 6 miles of here I saw my first AT moose!! It just walked out on trail not worried in the least about me. I took lots of video and photos as I could get within 5m of it. Pretty cool experience.
The trees are more coniferous now - loads of pines of various sorts. Plus there is more stunted undergrowth - more like the mountains. Less butterflies and snakes but more frogs and black flies.
The trail is a bit muddy but it is good. The day went well and I made it to Congdon Shelter (17.1mi). It is quite full plus there are a few people tenting. It is forecast to rain tonight - yay, just what we need.
Wed 29 Jun Day 111
It rained!! Lots!! So much so that the roof leaked and Snifur got a bit wet. It had stopped by the time we left though but puddles and mud were abound.
It didn't take long until I was exhausted - recovery from being sick is what I told myself. So I took the rest if the day off and headed into Bennington. I spent the afternoon chilling out, resting and 'not being a hiker'. It was great. Just what I needed. I think I will take the $2.50 bus through to Manchester Centre tomorrow too - just to make sure I'm fully recovered. I will have yellow blazed some miles but the saying "it's not about the miles, but the smiles" definitely applies in this case. Sorry to all this purists out there (cringe but be happy knowing I am enjoying myself)!! =)
Thur 30 Jun Day 112
A dreary and overcast day out of Bennington to Manchester Centre. But I am glad I took the bus as it went through a lot of countryside I would not have normally seen. It was amazing to see the houses!! So much obvious wealth - manicured lawns, flawless pavements, new paint jobs and everything looked immaculate.
Manchester Centre is a touristy town with lots of high-end clothing shops. I almost felt out of place until I found other hikers too. German Shepherd was heading out of town and recommended I stay at the Green Mountain House Hostel, which I thought was still closed, but obviously not.
I met up with Snifur and also Earl Grey, who had done some big miles after his days off at home! We went to EMS (an outfitter) that was having a sale. I bought a new buff (it's white with colourful, psyhcadallic flowers on it), some socks (stripey lime green and red flowery ones) and a pair of new undies. No pack cover though - I had to go to the other outfitter for that.
The sun had come out and turned it into a lovely day. We rang the owner of the hostel (Jeff) and he came and picked us up from outside the supermarket. The hostel is close to being the best on trail (the Hiker Hostel where I started, is the other best one). It was just like being in a really nice house. Everything was clean and just all-round wonderful.
The afternoon/evening was spent playing frisbee, eating pizza (and a free pint of Ben & Jerry's), and watching Avatar (no I hadn't seen it before)! What a great day.
Fri 1 July Day 113
Jeff dropped Earl Grey, Snifur and I at the trailhead at 7.45am and we set off. I was flying - it was a good trail and the first hill flew by. On top was a chair lift for a ski field and a viewing tower (could see 5 states - VT,NH,CT,MA,NY). The grey clouds also formed an impressive line across the sky!
The rest of the day was much like others - up and down and through trees. There were a few lakes and ponds today which is nice to see, especially when the sun is out. I stopped at Little Rock Pond for dinner around 5pm - beautiful view for eating cereal (apart from the fat naked guy and his wife swimming).
The last 5miles went up over a bit of a hill (with lots of piled rock cairns) to Greenwall Shelter (which was only supposed to be 0.2mi off trail but was 0.3 - it makes a difference you know)! We were the only ones there - plus the 375 mozzies.
Total miles for the day - 24.6
Total done on AT - 1667.9
Total to go - 513.1
Sat 2 July Day 114
I headed out of the shelter first and was off flying again. The miles clicked by and I was at Clarendon Shelter (13.6mi) by 12.00pm. It was a lovely spot with large grass area and pot plants. I spent about an hour here drying out socks and shoes.
Earl Grey had just shown up as I was about to leave. He mentioned that Snifur had trouble with his new shoes and had probably gone into town to get it sorted (we weren't sure as neither of us had seen him).
About 2hours later I started the 2100' climb up Mt Kilington. It only took 2.5hrs to reach the top, although some of the trail was tough (lots of root hopping/dodging).
Cooper Lodge Shelter is not the most maintained one I have seen. Loads of graffiti, stoney floor and uneven bunks. Great sunset.
18.9mi done today.
Sun 3July Day 115
Up early to an overcast day. Within 2 hours it was pouring and thundering (right above my head). It was crazy wet. I trotted along fairly quickly though as the trail was good - still loads of mud though.
Made it to the Long Trail/AT intersection (the Long Trail has been part of the last 105mi and heads from VT to Canada). I checked the signs to make sure of heading down the right trail as both the LT and AT are white blazed!!
Got the direction right, picked up some trail magic (can of grape soda) and was in Killington, VT for resupply by 11.30am. The store/deli was fairly expensive without much selection but I managed to get a few things plus a couple of hot dogs, potato salad, a blueberry coffee and a chocolate milk.
I charged my camera, dried out all my wet clothes and hung out for a couple of hours. It was great. Earl Grey turned up around 1pm as he had done a bit of a detour down the wrong road!!
Only 7 miles to the shelter tonight (Stony Brook) and it was awesome. Straight up a hill which was a big effort and over the top then down the other side. Fun. Dreamwalker is the only other thru-hiker here with Earl Grey and I. There are lots of mozzies!
Total miles done today - 16ish :)
- posted by enzed :)
Mon 27 Jun Day 109
It is the first day back into the big hills and bfast was awesome. Pancakes covered in blueberries and blackberries - they were delicious. However, it all turned to custard within an hour as I got sick (maybe bfast or some bug I picked up). The first 10 miles I spent retching and wanting to pass out - it was a hideous climb over a hill into a small village called Cheshire. I got rid of 5lbs of gear at the post office to lighten my load - it helped a bit but not with the feeling sick part.
I pushed on through the rest of the day - quite slowly but still putting one foot in front of the other. It wasn't easy as that meant heading up Mt Greylock (MA's highest peak - a 2500' climb). The trail was really nice but I just couldn't enjoy it. I took photos at the top but really didn't want to be there.
Greylock is the most visited mountain in the US - it is completely accessible by car and has a lodge that people stay in. Too easy for some, huh?!
At this point of the day (5.30pm) I found the others who had been there for hours and they said I looked awful. But there were only 3 miles to go so I pushed on with help from Snifur (who ended up carrying my pack the last couple of miles so I could get in by 7.30pm). Huge thanks!!
The Wilbur Clearing Shelter had lots of tent platforms and space. The Colonel and Charlie were in the shelter and Charlie gave me some grapeseed drops to help settle my stomach (they worked well although tasted awful). A random/strange guy turned up as well - he ended up cooking food until 10pm - a little weird.
Tues 28 Jun Day 110
Woke up with a blood nose - totally needing some rest about now. But thats not really going to happen when you don't have enough food and it's resupply day! But I did decide on doing 17mi not 20something.
I felt a bit better once i was underway, but obviously not 100%. I tootled along the first 3miles to the resupply road and ended up getting a ride with "Reuben 2"s wife (she has meet me about 10 times now) to the supermarket. I got a few things although must still have been sick as I didn't get soda or chocolate milk!!
Within 4 mi of here I crossed the MA - VT (Vermont) border. Yay, another state done. Within 6 miles of here I saw my first AT moose!! It just walked out on trail not worried in the least about me. I took lots of video and photos as I could get within 5m of it. Pretty cool experience.
The trees are more coniferous now - loads of pines of various sorts. Plus there is more stunted undergrowth - more like the mountains. Less butterflies and snakes but more frogs and black flies.
The trail is a bit muddy but it is good. The day went well and I made it to Congdon Shelter (17.1mi). It is quite full plus there are a few people tenting. It is forecast to rain tonight - yay, just what we need.
Wed 29 Jun Day 111
It rained!! Lots!! So much so that the roof leaked and Snifur got a bit wet. It had stopped by the time we left though but puddles and mud were abound.
It didn't take long until I was exhausted - recovery from being sick is what I told myself. So I took the rest if the day off and headed into Bennington. I spent the afternoon chilling out, resting and 'not being a hiker'. It was great. Just what I needed. I think I will take the $2.50 bus through to Manchester Centre tomorrow too - just to make sure I'm fully recovered. I will have yellow blazed some miles but the saying "it's not about the miles, but the smiles" definitely applies in this case. Sorry to all this purists out there (cringe but be happy knowing I am enjoying myself)!! =)
Thur 30 Jun Day 112
A dreary and overcast day out of Bennington to Manchester Centre. But I am glad I took the bus as it went through a lot of countryside I would not have normally seen. It was amazing to see the houses!! So much obvious wealth - manicured lawns, flawless pavements, new paint jobs and everything looked immaculate.
Manchester Centre is a touristy town with lots of high-end clothing shops. I almost felt out of place until I found other hikers too. German Shepherd was heading out of town and recommended I stay at the Green Mountain House Hostel, which I thought was still closed, but obviously not.
I met up with Snifur and also Earl Grey, who had done some big miles after his days off at home! We went to EMS (an outfitter) that was having a sale. I bought a new buff (it's white with colourful, psyhcadallic flowers on it), some socks (stripey lime green and red flowery ones) and a pair of new undies. No pack cover though - I had to go to the other outfitter for that.
The sun had come out and turned it into a lovely day. We rang the owner of the hostel (Jeff) and he came and picked us up from outside the supermarket. The hostel is close to being the best on trail (the Hiker Hostel where I started, is the other best one). It was just like being in a really nice house. Everything was clean and just all-round wonderful.
The afternoon/evening was spent playing frisbee, eating pizza (and a free pint of Ben & Jerry's), and watching Avatar (no I hadn't seen it before)! What a great day.
Fri 1 July Day 113
Jeff dropped Earl Grey, Snifur and I at the trailhead at 7.45am and we set off. I was flying - it was a good trail and the first hill flew by. On top was a chair lift for a ski field and a viewing tower (could see 5 states - VT,NH,CT,MA,NY). The grey clouds also formed an impressive line across the sky!
The rest of the day was much like others - up and down and through trees. There were a few lakes and ponds today which is nice to see, especially when the sun is out. I stopped at Little Rock Pond for dinner around 5pm - beautiful view for eating cereal (apart from the fat naked guy and his wife swimming).
The last 5miles went up over a bit of a hill (with lots of piled rock cairns) to Greenwall Shelter (which was only supposed to be 0.2mi off trail but was 0.3 - it makes a difference you know)! We were the only ones there - plus the 375 mozzies.
Total miles for the day - 24.6
Total done on AT - 1667.9
Total to go - 513.1
Sat 2 July Day 114
I headed out of the shelter first and was off flying again. The miles clicked by and I was at Clarendon Shelter (13.6mi) by 12.00pm. It was a lovely spot with large grass area and pot plants. I spent about an hour here drying out socks and shoes.
Earl Grey had just shown up as I was about to leave. He mentioned that Snifur had trouble with his new shoes and had probably gone into town to get it sorted (we weren't sure as neither of us had seen him).
About 2hours later I started the 2100' climb up Mt Kilington. It only took 2.5hrs to reach the top, although some of the trail was tough (lots of root hopping/dodging).
Cooper Lodge Shelter is not the most maintained one I have seen. Loads of graffiti, stoney floor and uneven bunks. Great sunset.
18.9mi done today.
Sun 3July Day 115
Up early to an overcast day. Within 2 hours it was pouring and thundering (right above my head). It was crazy wet. I trotted along fairly quickly though as the trail was good - still loads of mud though.
Made it to the Long Trail/AT intersection (the Long Trail has been part of the last 105mi and heads from VT to Canada). I checked the signs to make sure of heading down the right trail as both the LT and AT are white blazed!!
Got the direction right, picked up some trail magic (can of grape soda) and was in Killington, VT for resupply by 11.30am. The store/deli was fairly expensive without much selection but I managed to get a few things plus a couple of hot dogs, potato salad, a blueberry coffee and a chocolate milk.
I charged my camera, dried out all my wet clothes and hung out for a couple of hours. It was great. Earl Grey turned up around 1pm as he had done a bit of a detour down the wrong road!!
Only 7 miles to the shelter tonight (Stony Brook) and it was awesome. Straight up a hill which was a big effort and over the top then down the other side. Fun. Dreamwalker is the only other thru-hiker here with Earl Grey and I. There are lots of mozzies!
Total miles done today - 16ish :)
- posted by enzed :)
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