Miles: 8.9
I thought we slept in yesterday... that was NOTHING compared to this morning. At a bright and early 9:30, we were finally on the Trail.
The uphill climing yesterday with rare views paid off today. After a short climb, we were on top of Saddleback Junior, with 360-degree views of nothing but mountains, ponds, lakes and a ski resort. (It can't always be "Lord of the Rings"-ish, right?) After Saddleback Junior, we took a sharp descent into the trees and then climbed over boulders to summit the Horn. Between the Horn and Saddleback Mountain, we stayed above treeline, providing outstanding views for about 2 miles. For the Appalachians (outside of the White Mountains in New Hampshire), that's almost unheard of. We were talking to a guy that hiked out west quite a bit and he said that on eof the largest differences between there and here is the long, uninterrupted views of the west. The trails are also better graded than here... I'm thinking that I would rather be hiking out there instead of clambering over roots and rocks to see more trees.
After taking long, leisurely breaks at all of the summits, we began our descent to the lean-to. On the way, there was a beautiful swimming spot, but Kevin wanted to push on... which made this the almost perfect day. Anyway, I got upset about him not wanting to stop, but we made great time getting to the lean-to (walking angry really does make you go faster).
So, we got here, made up, ate dinner and built our first campfire during this whole trip. Usually, we're too tired to mess with it, but today was a short one (a gift to ourselves for yesterday). So, here I am, coughin up smoke, but thankful that it keeps the bugs away.
The Texas Tri went into Rangeley today (there's a free hostel there... Trail Angels are awesome!). Hopefully, we'll catch them tomorrow.
- Smoky Bobo
PS - The privy at this lean-to is a double-seater with a cribbage board between the seats. Funny! Also, it's aptly named "Your Move." The volunteers that maintain this section have a great sense of humor.