A Week with Hooter

 Trecking Trio

     This post is extremely overdue.  It will actually recount an AT adventure that happened a year ago - in July 2011.  I'm sorry it's taken me so long, and I hope I remember all the good stories.  Bear with me.  

 Massachusetts with a view.

     We were able to rendezvous with our hiking friend Hooter for a week of backpacking on the AT in Massachusetts.  Over the course of 5 days of hiking, we made it about 50 miles.  We spent 3 nights camping in the MA wild.  

 Massachusetts Wild, now complete with swamp paths. 

     Over the course of our week on the AT, we came across some wild blueberries that were perfect for snacking, some nice views, and even some history. 

 The site of Sherman's Rebellion

    We were extremely fortunate that the weather treated us well.  There was a very brief rain shower on our last night camping, but the rain only came upon us after we had made camp for the night.

 This way to Maine!

   The weather was wonderful for hiking, but not so wonderful for staying hydrated.  Our week of sun and no rain was not a fluke.  Apparently, Massachusetts had been short on rain for quite some time.  On our third full day of hiking, all of the creeks and streams we passed, and were counting on for our water sources, turned out to be dry.  By 1pm, we were all out of water.  We still had over 6 miles of hiking to accomplish before we made camp for the night.  It was the first time since I started the AT that I had legitimately run out of supplies, and the most important of supplies at that.  Luckily, there was a great water source where we made camp for the night, but by the time we got there, we were all very, very parched.  I think Hooter drank 4 liters of water right there by the creek before taking any back to camp. 

 Laskeside rest stop. 

 Onward to Maine!

       We camped in a pine forest on the side of the trail, on top of a cliff, and in a valley by a stream.  It was hot and sunny the entire week.  On our last morning out, we got to have salmon for breakfast, which was a real treat.  We saved it for the last day so the bears wouldn't follow the smell home.  On our last day of hiking, we also passed a large lake called Goose Pond.  One of the most famous shelters on the AT is there.  It has a staff during hiking season, and it is known for its delicious pancake breakfasts and swimming hole.  We didn't get to stay there this trip, but maybe someday.  After we came off the trail in Lee, Massachusetts, we made a beeline for the nearest ice cream vendor and had ourselves some sundaes with all the fixings.  I'm so glad we got to come out to the AT for a few days, especially with our friend Hooter, who always makes things so fun.  I can't wait to do it again. 

Happy Hiker Friends after a great week.