Motivation

AT "Halfway" Museum at Pine Grove Furnace

Today we moved again, pushing ever Northward. After getting a late start because we moved, we managed to get in about 11 miles of hiking. We actually were able to hike right into the campground where we moved to, since the AT literally runs right next to it, which made things convenient. We started out at Pine Grove Furnace and saw the white sand beach at the other end of the park. Even though we were tempted to stay and sunbathe, we pressed on up the hill. None of the climbs were too steep, but they were very rocky, as I have noticed PA trails tend to be.

Trail or Rockpile? Your guess is as good as mine here.

There weren't any views or other hikers to see today, but there were lots of critters.

Hello Mr. Turtle...

...and Mrs. Toad...

...and Mr. Snake (don't worry, it's a black racer. Harmless.)

There was also leftover pizza from dinner last night for lunch at the top of the hill. Amazingly, cold pizza keeps quite well in a tupperware in a backpack while hiking. A little tip for any aspiring backpackers who also have an affinity for greasy Italian food. It rained for the last 3 miles of our hike, but not very hard. We only got a little wet and dirty. It could always be worse. Besides, we were inspired by a fellow walking through Pine Grove Furnace today, who has clearly found an excellent way to motivate himself when he gets grumpy and wishes he could quit.

New Form of Hiker Motivation: Kick yourself all the way to Maine.