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.

Huts and the White Mointains

"The Whites" refer to the White Mountains in the state of New Hampshire. One of the trails there is the oldest continuously used trail on the USA. The mountains are high, above tree lime, the weather changes quickly and constantly, and the views are spectacular. If the weather is bad, white is the only view. The highest recorded wind on the top of the highest mountain, Mt. Washington, is 232 miles per hour!

Due to the area's popularity and weather conditions, places to spend the night are closely regulated. The Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC) maintains the trails and has established a network of huts to provide sheltered accommodation. Bunk beds and meals are provided for guests on a generous budget.

This is Madison Hut...

Fortunately thru-hikers can ask for a "work-stay". This involves washing dishes, windows, floors, or something similar for the right to sleep on the dining room floor and eat with the crew (referred to as Croo).

Thanks to some especially friendly Croo - Matt at Carter Notch Hut and Maddie at Madison Hut.