The train stop on the Appalachian Trail

On the weekends, the train to New York City stops right on the Appalachian Trail. Here is a picture of the platform.

Bear Mountain, New York

22 August 2009

Crossed the Hudson River on a rainy morning using the historic Bear Mountain Bridge.

Lots of history here from the Revolutionary War period. There were forts on both sides of the river, and many devices to stop sailing ships from going further upriver. The US Naval Academy, West Point, is nearby to the north.

Many of the buildings and walls in the park were built by the CCC during the Great Depression and often the buildings are in excellent condition. After the bridge the trail passes through the Bear Mountain Zoo which is built in an older style, is in a fully matured forest area, and is perfectly maintained. Here I saw my first bears, two brown and one black. Next the trail goes past the huge Bear Mountain Inn, a Historic Landmark presently under renovation, before climbing to the top of Bear Mountain.

After Bear Mountain, the trail passed through the Seven Lakes Drive area. Hiking here brought back many youthful memories of hikes with my parents, swimming and canoeing in the lakes, and time spent at the YMCA camp. Rock features such as the Lemon Squeeze and picturesque spots like Island Pond and Lake Tiorotti remain much as they were in my childhood.

The Barber of Pawling

Following my brief visit to New York City, the train dropped me off just south of the trail in Pawling, NY. Spotting a Barber Shop sign, decided to get a "trim".

This time, a short haircut would do - it is hot outside, and the trail goes through tick country (Lime Disease is carried by ticks and causes many hikers to leave the trail when they get sick). Every day hikers should check their bodies for ticks.

Talked with the barber about getting a short haircut and he went to work with a passion. This may be the most forceful haircut ever experienced in my life. He got the shaver going with a vengeance. Trim trim, cut cut. Here is the result.

What I didn't realize - the mosquitoes are now within biting range when they sit on my hair. Oh well, one more place to use repellent :-(

The Green Tunnel

After The Whites, the terrain changes dramatically. Instead of constantly climbing above the tree line, the trail is in a "green tunnel". Typical views occur where there is a rock outcropping or ledge. Occasionally the trees will have been trimmed and cut back to allow a nice view. Elevations now often range from 1,000 to 2,000 feet. Earlier, they were from 3,000 to 6,000 feet. This is called "The Green Tunnel".

Rattlesnake!!

15 August 2009, Connecticut.

Hiking on another hot mosquito filled day. Nice lunch at the well known Housatonic Falls. Decided to push on as the terrain was somewhat flat. At the top of one mountain, rounded a bend in the trail near the top. Suddenly, heard a "rattle" noise - loud and just in front of me. It was this rattlesnake. We stared at each other for awhile, I took this picture, made some noise, and eventually - slowly - the snake moved off the trail. And, yes, they are poisonous.

The train stop on the Appalachian Trail

On the weekends, the train to New York City stops right on the Appalachian Trail. Here is a picture of the platform.

Bear Mountain, New York

22 August 2009

Crossed the Hudson River on a rainy morning using the historic Bear Mountain Bridge.

Lots of history here from the Revolutionary War period. There were forts on both sides of the river, and many devices to stop sailing ships from going further upriver. The US Naval Academy, West Point, is nearby to the north.

Many of the buildings and walls in the park were built by the CCC during the Great Depression and often the buildings are in excellent condition. After the bridge the trail passes through the Bear Mountain Zoo which is built in an older style, is in a fully matured forest area, and is perfectly maintained. Here I saw my first bears, two brown and one black. Next the trail goes past the huge Bear Mountain Inn, a Historic Landmark presently under renovation, before climbing to the top of Bear Mountain.

After Bear Mountain, the trail passed through the Seven Lakes Drive area. Hiking here brought back many youthful memories of hikes with my parents, swimming and canoeing in the lakes, and time spent at the YMCA camp. Rock features such as the Lemon Squeeze and picturesque spots like Island Pond and Lake Tiorotti remain much as they were in my childhood.

The Barber of Pawling

Following my brief visit to New York City, the train dropped me off just south of the trail in Pawling, NY. Spotting a Barber Shop sign, decided to get a "trim".

This time, a short haircut would do - it is hot outside, and the trail goes through tick country (Lime Disease is carried by ticks and causes many hikers to leave the trail when they get sick). Every day hikers should check their bodies for ticks.

Talked with the barber about getting a short haircut and he went to work with a passion. This may be the most forceful haircut ever experienced in my life. He got the shaver going with a vengeance. Trim trim, cut cut. Here is the result.

What I didn't realize - the mosquitoes are now within biting range when they sit on my hair. Oh well, one more place to use repellent :-(

The Green Tunnel

After The Whites, the terrain changes dramatically. Instead of constantly climbing above the tree line, the trail is in a "green tunnel". Typical views occur where there is a rock outcropping or ledge. Occasionally the trees will have been trimmed and cut back to allow a nice view. Elevations now often range from 1,000 to 2,000 feet. Earlier, they were from 3,000 to 6,000 feet. This is called "The Green Tunnel".

Rattlesnake!!

15 August 2009, Connecticut.

Hiking on another hot mosquito filled day. Nice lunch at the well known Housatonic Falls. Decided to push on as the terrain was somewhat flat. At the top of one mountain, rounded a bend in the trail near the top. Suddenly, heard a "rattle" noise - loud and just in front of me. It was this rattlesnake. We stared at each other for awhile, I took this picture, made some noise, and eventually - slowly - the snake moved off the trail. And, yes, they are poisonous.

The Deli Trail

Traveling through New York State, there are many convenient Delicatessens ("Deli's"). In the New York/New Jersey area, some of the world's best sandwiches are made. So many hikers, being continually hungry, find stopping at the numerous deli's for huge sandwiches or hero's irresistible. Many eat at least one per day. Me too.

Mossies and the Bat

22 August 2009

Spending the night at the beautiful old stone Fingerboard Shelter. It is located exactly 800 miles from the start of trail in Maine. Two young hikers were there and mentioned that there were few mosquitoes. So, instead of staying in my tent, decided to use the shelter.

At dusk, noticed a bat flying out of the shelter. Bats eat mosquitoes but are less common now because a white fungus has been killing them.

Later that night, the bat flew back in and could be heard and felt flying back in forth above us in the shelter all night long - eating mosquitoes. As first light approached, the bat stopped working and the mosquitoes attacked - wake up call!

The Deli Trail

Traveling through New York State, there are many convenient Delicatessens ("Deli's"). In the New York/New Jersey area, some of the world's best sandwiches are made. So many hikers, being continually hungry, find stopping at the numerous deli's for huge sandwiches or hero's irresistible. Many eat at least one per day. Me too.

Mossies and the Bat

22 August 2009

Spending the night at the beautiful old stone Fingerboard Shelter. It is located exactly 800 miles from the start of trail in Maine. Two young hikers were there and mentioned that there were few mosquitoes. So, instead of staying in my tent, decided to use the shelter.

At dusk, noticed a bat flying out of the shelter. Bats eat mosquitoes but are less common now because a white fungus has been killing them.

Later that night, the bat flew back in and could be heard and felt flying back in forth above us in the shelter all night long - eating mosquitoes. As first light approached, the bat stopped working and the mosquitoes attacked - wake up call!

A day in the big City

18 August 2009 - Two months on the trail.

Near Pawling, New York, the trail crosses the Metro-North train line to New York City. Since Marianne had promised a place to rest and clean up, decided to change worlds for a day. Getting up at 4:30am, walked into town and caught am early morning train to the architecturally stunning Grand Central Station.

In recent years the city has been clean, efficient, and as always exciting. So international, there are people from Everywhere.

Stopped downtown at Tent & Trails to get some equipment including light weight hiking shoes and a summer weight sleeping bag. Changed from water filter to chemical treatment.

Decided to send home cool weather clothing. Hoping to lose several pounds of gear from my pack. Lighter pack equals faster hiking.

In the evening, Marianne cooked up a big dinner of steak, salad, rice, veggies and corn. Yum! Andre and Karin shared the feast. Trail stories filled the conversation.

It was nice to spend time with friends. Thanks Marianne for your hospitality.

A day in the big City

18 August 2009 - Two months on the trail.

Near Pawling, New York, the trail crosses the Metro-North train line to New York City. Since Marianne had promised a place to rest and clean up, decided to change worlds for a day. Getting up at 4:30am, walked into town and caught am early morning train to the architecturally stunning Grand Central Station.

In recent years the city has been clean, efficient, and as always exciting. So international, there are people from Everywhere.

Stopped downtown at Tent & Trails to get some equipment including light weight hiking shoes and a summer weight sleeping bag. Changed from water filter to chemical treatment.

Decided to send home cool weather clothing. Hoping to lose several pounds of gear from my pack. Lighter pack equals faster hiking.

In the evening, Marianne cooked up a big dinner of steak, salad, rice, veggies and corn. Yum! Andre and Karin shared the feast. Trail stories filled the conversation.

It was nice to spend time with friends. Thanks Marianne for your hospitality.

Mosquito Alley

12 August 2009

Today, entered "Mosquito Alley". There are many, and they are fierce. A cloud follows when walking quickly. Any slowing of pace, or stopping for even a second and they descend. Even 100% Deet cannot keep them away.

It seems that there is a white fungus that is killing off bats. Bats eat mosquitoes. So, more mosquitoes.

Apparently this "mosquito plague" will continue through the rest of MA, then Connecticut, NY, and New Jersey.

Any suggestions how to keep them away (or bring back the bats quickly)?

Mosquito Alley

12 August 2009

Today, entered "Mosquito Alley". There are many, and they are fierce. A cloud follows when walking quickly. Any slowing of pace, or stopping for even a second and they descend. Even 100% Deet cannot keep them away.

It seems that there is a white fungus that is killing off bats. Bats eat mosquitoes. So, more mosquitoes.

Apparently this "mosquito plague" will continue through the rest of MA, then Connecticut, NY, and New Jersey.

Any suggestions how to keep them away (or bring back the bats quickly)?

AT Photos - 4

Still a long way to go... Greylock Mountain - the highest point in MA. A Memorial is on the top and 5 states can be seen on a clear day.

The view from Greylock.Saw this owl early one morning.

AT Photos - 4

Still a long way to go... Greylock Mountain - the highest point in MA. A Memorial is on the top and 5 states can be seen on a clear day.

The view from Greylock.Saw this owl early one morning.

Upper Goose Pond Cabin

22 August 2009

After a long 20 mile day hiking south from Dalton, arrived at Upper Goose Pond just as the sun was setting. Located a half mile off the trail, the AMC (Appalachian Mountain Club) run cabin is on the opposite end of the pond. As part of the government's acquisition of land around the AT, they acquired a formerly privately owned cabin which has been renovated for hikers to stay. There is a bunk room on the upper floor, a kitchen with gas stove, and two canoes are docked at the pond below. It is a cozy place. The water is appealing after a hot sweaty day. The only sensible action is to strip off and jump in for a swim. The water is a perfect temperature. Scenery is gorgeous.

Later that evening we talk with the volunteer caretaker (AMC members volunteer one week each), consume dinner, talk with other distance hikers, and read.

In the morning, caretaker John cooks us Blueberry Pancakes and makes several pots of coffee.

And then, although many of us would like to stay longer, it is time to leave for another day of hiking...

Upper Goose Pond Cabin

22 August 2009

After a long 20 mile day hiking south from Dalton, arrived at Upper Goose Pond just as the sun was setting. Located a half mile off the trail, the AMC (Appalachian Mountain Club) run cabin is on the opposite end of the pond. As part of the government's acquisition of land around the AT, they acquired a formerly privately owned cabin which has been renovated for hikers to stay. There is a bunk room on the upper floor, a kitchen with gas stove, and two canoes are docked at the pond below. It is a cozy place. The water is appealing after a hot sweaty day. The only sensible action is to strip off and jump in for a swim. The water is a perfect temperature. Scenery is gorgeous.

Later that evening we talk with the volunteer caretaker (AMC members volunteer one week each), consume dinner, talk with other distance hikers, and read.

In the morning, caretaker John cooks us Blueberry Pancakes and makes several pots of coffee.

And then, although many of us would like to stay longer, it is time to leave for another day of hiking...

The Birdcage - A Hiker's Hostel

09 August 2009

Along the trail are some well known "hiker hostels". There is the "White House" in the midst of the 100 mile wilderness, Rebekah's "Lakeshore House" in Monson, Jeff's "Green Mountain House" in Manchester Center, VT. In Dalton, MA there are two... Thomas Lavardi's house right on the trail, and "The Birdcage".

The Birdcage is run by Robert Bird and is located in the house where he lives and where his mother lived her entire life. There are bunk beds on the porch and in several rooms. Sometimes people set up tents in the yard or sleep in the garage. All are made to feel extremely welcome. Rob will shuttle you to the trail, to the store, or wherever you need to go. Laundry can be washed, and the kitchen is available for cooking. The living room contains a large screen TV and has a great sound system. Weary hikers like to relax and catch up on conversation and a movie or two. For all this, there is no charge.. if shopping one can buy something for the house, but that's all. Rob loves the trail community and feels a certain purpose in live from the service he provides. He is well known both on the trail and off, and has been doing this for 9 years. When he attends the annual Trail Days celebration he must be a celebrity.

Although only one story is told here, there are many others.

The Birdcage - A Hiker's Hostel

09 August 2009

Along the trail are some well known "hiker hostels". There is the "White House" in the midst of the 100 mile wilderness, Rebekah's "Lakeshore House" in Monson, Jeff's "Green Mountain House" in Manchester Center, VT. In Dalton, MA there are two... Thomas Lavardi's house right on the trail, and "The Birdcage".

The Birdcage is run by Robert Bird and is located in the house where he lives and where his mother lived her entire life. There are bunk beds on the porch and in several rooms. Sometimes people set up tents in the yard or sleep in the garage. All are made to feel extremely welcome. Rob will shuttle you to the trail, to the store, or wherever you need to go. Laundry can be washed, and the kitchen is available for cooking. The living room contains a large screen TV and has a great sound system. Weary hikers like to relax and catch up on conversation and a movie or two. For all this, there is no charge.. if shopping one can buy something for the house, but that's all. Rob loves the trail community and feels a certain purpose in live from the service he provides. He is well known both on the trail and off, and has been doing this for 9 years. When he attends the annual Trail Days celebration he must be a celebrity.

Although only one story is told here, there are many others.

Trail Magic

As the trail goes through populated areas, more Trail Magic appears. It is often provided by people who have themselves completed thru-hikes of the AT, and is a kindness that by definition must be repaid to others.

An example: coming down a trail, hot, sweaty and dirty, a cooler comes into view. On the top, a note welcoming distance hikers to partake of what is inside. There is always some way to write a note - most often a spiral notebook. Inside the cooler can be any combination of soda, water, candy or cookies. Trail Magic is always highly appreciated by the hikers, and can only be repaid if you (after your hike) provide some "Magic" to other hikers in another place and time.

Trail Magic is part of the trail culture, and in addition to being welcome adds positive karma to the giver and the world.

Thanks to all the providers of magic - we all love you!

Trail Magic

As the trail goes through populated areas, more Trail Magic appears. It is often provided by people who have themselves completed thru-hikes of the AT, and is a kindness that by definition must be repaid to others.

An example: coming down a trail, hot, sweaty and dirty, a cooler comes into view. On the top, a note welcoming distance hikers to partake of what is inside. There is always some way to write a note - most often a spiral notebook. Inside the cooler can be any combination of soda, water, candy or cookies. Trail Magic is always highly appreciated by the hikers, and can only be repaid if you (after your hike) provide some "Magic" to other hikers in another place and time.

Trail Magic is part of the trail culture, and in addition to being welcome adds positive karma to the giver and the world.

Thanks to all the providers of magic - we all love you!

A Hungry Hiker's Dinner

03 August 2009

Arrived midday at Manchester Center, Vermont. Got a ride to the town center and went shopping at the local food store. Jeff, the owner of the hiker hostel "Green Mountain House" mentioned that there is a hiker kitchen which includes a gas grill outside. Time to eat!

Dinner menu:
1+ pound of steak, grilled
a huge bowl of salad
4 ears of corn on the cob
2 cans of root beer soda
a can of mixed nuts

After all that, hardly felt full!

A Hungry Hiker's Dinner

03 August 2009

Arrived midday at Manchester Center, Vermont. Got a ride to the town center and went shopping at the local food store. Jeff, the owner of the hiker hostel "Green Mountain House" mentioned that there is a hiker kitchen which includes a gas grill outside. Time to eat!

Dinner menu:
1+ pound of steak, grilled
a huge bowl of salad
4 ears of corn on the cob
2 cans of root beer soda
a can of mixed nuts

After all that, hardly felt full!

Welcome to Massachusetts

Made it to the next state - Massachusetts!!More populated here as you can see... now farms can be seen, planes and auto's heard...

Welcome to Massachusetts

Made it to the next state - Massachusetts!!More populated here as you can see... now farms can be seen, planes and auto's heard...

Vermont = MUD

Perhaps it has to do with the weather, perhaps with the terrain. Most likely a combination. None-the-less, my experience hiking in the state of Vermont is of MUD, lots of it.

Here is an example of a very small and somewhat dry patch taken while leaving the state. Most were much wider, longer, and wetter...

The Long Trail is older than the Appalachian Trail, and runs from the northern to southern VT border. The AT uses the same trail for 105.2 miles. The Long Trail is the oldest long distance trail in the United States and was built between 1910 and 1030. More info can be seen by clicking on the title to this Blog Post.

Vermont = MUD

Perhaps it has to do with the weather, perhaps with the terrain. Most likely a combination. None-the-less, my experience hiking in the state of Vermont is of MUD, lots of it.

Here is an example of a very small and somewhat dry patch taken while leaving the state. Most were much wider, longer, and wetter...

The Long Trail is older than the Appalachian Trail, and runs from the northern to southern VT border. The AT uses the same trail for 105.2 miles. The Long Trail is the oldest long distance trail in the United States and was built between 1910 and 1030. More info can be seen by clicking on the title to this Blog Post.

NOBO respect

25 July 2009

Out of the Whites now. A distinct change in attitude can be noticed from the NOBO's to the SOBO's (NOrth BOunders and SOuth BOunders). The SOBO's have completed what is considered a challenging part of the trail. We have been toughened up. For NOBO's, there is a slight fear of the unknown... and we can make it better known. So there is a reversal of roles somewhat - or a rebalancing anyway! Now they show some respect for our accomplishments and ask questions about what is ahead.

NOBO respect

25 July 2009

Out of the Whites now. A distinct change in attitude can be noticed from the NOBO's to the SOBO's (NOrth BOunders and SOuth BOunders). The SOBO's have completed what is considered a challenging part of the trail. We have been toughened up. For NOBO's, there is a slight fear of the unknown... and we can make it better known. So there is a reversal of roles somewhat - or a rebalancing anyway! Now they show some respect for our accomplishments and ask questions about what is ahead.

Appalachian Trail - Part 3

Situation atop Mt. Washington, NH

The Cog Railway which goes up Mt. Washington

Mountain Views

Leaving Maine!!

Sisyphus and his dog, 10 month old Husky "Icarus"

Appalachian Trail - Part 3

Situation atop Mt. Washington, NH

The Cog Railway which goes up Mt. Washington

Mountain Views

Leaving Maine!!

Sisyphus and his dog, 10 month old Husky "Icarus"

20+

24 July 2009

After climbing the steep ascent of Moosilauke Mountain's north side and staying in the Beaver Brook Shelter yesterday, it was time to finish The Whites. The hoped for clear weather did not materialize and the hike up and over was wet and windy. Somewhat to my surprise, the descent was more gradual and the trail more "groomed" than expected. The spectacular "Whites" are completed!

Trail conditions changed quickly to cushiony pine needles and deciduous forest.

To celebrate, completed my first day hiking over 20 miles (22.6).

Farewell to the Whites and Maine's 100 Mile Wilderness - often mentioned as the two most challenging sections of the AT.

20+

24 July 2009

After climbing the steep ascent of Moosilauke Mountain's north side and staying in the Beaver Brook Shelter yesterday, it was time to finish The Whites. The hoped for clear weather did not materialize and the hike up and over was wet and windy. Somewhat to my surprise, the descent was more gradual and the trail more "groomed" than expected. The spectacular "Whites" are completed!

Trail conditions changed quickly to cushiony pine needles and deciduous forest.

To celebrate, completed my first day hiking over 20 miles (22.6).

Farewell to the Whites and Maine's 100 Mile Wilderness - often mentioned as the two most challenging sections of the AT.