38.2 miles to go
Today was a day to remember on the Appalachian Trail in Maine. Why? Well because it was relatively flat, a first for the finest state in the Union. Life is good.
I was walking north at 6:20AM. The trail was smooth and flat for an extensive period. For the first time since before entering the Whites I was able to hold a stride for an extended period of time.
It's very easy to feel isolated in the Maine woods. You can look to your left and right and see nothing but a never ending forest. The only comfort you have is the white blaze guiding the way in front of you.
At Antler's Campsite I made an attempt to call my day, but that failed. For those of you wondering, this is one of the few spots in the 100 Mile Wilderness where you can find cell phone reception.
The only note worthy climb of the day was some PUD leading to Potawadjo Spring Lean-To, where Cookie and I took our mid-morning snack break. About ten minutes south of the shelter I bumped into a SOBO named Hillwalker. This is the man who spearheaded a trail maintenance trip during Trashgiving 2007 that I participated in. It really is a small world. He is heading to Springer Mountain, GA.
I should note that Potawadjo lean-to has one of the nicest water sources I've seen, take a look if you ever in the area.
North of the lean-to I came to a sign that stated "view of Katahdin", with an arrow pointing towards the nearby lake. There she stood, tall and unobstructed. This represented my first good look at Katahdin on the entire trail. After everything I've been through, I can now see the mountain, and I mean really see it. It really is almost over.
Tonight I'm at Wadleigh Stream Lean-To with Cookie and Time Traveler after completing a 21.5 mile day. When i got here I found Rocket Dog taking a break, he intends to do 12 more miles. It was 3:30PM at the time.
This may also be my last night in a shelter with Time Traveler. Tomorrow I'm aiming for Abol Bridge, while she intends to stop at Hurd Brook Lean-To. She has to wait until the 25th to summit, while I'm on target for the 23rd. It's been great hiking with her.
It ends in 38.2 miles.
And that's the way it was.
Kirby
Ga>ME 2008.
