5am start to the day, it was still dark when we began packing up. We wanted to make some good miles, and knew the early start would help. Able to get in the 23 miles and into our resting place for the evening (near Peru Peak Shelter) by 5pm. Our longest day yet.
Today was interesting in that we both had the sense of ‘we are here already?’ throughout the day. It just felt that the miles came a lot easier. Maybe it is because Beardoh is learning to count in Spanish and by the time he gets to 350, we are usually at a landmark of some sort. At any rate, it feels easier, despite the fact that today’s portion of the trail had quite a bit of rocks in it.
In the am, Sweet Pea saw an owl sitting in a tree right above the trail.
Midday, we came across an area called White Rocks, which is up on a mountain, and has a bunch of large white stones lying amongst the conifers. It was cool to see, a bit odd.
Nice views at the end of the day, presumably over looking the Manchester Center area.
We are seeing quite a few Long Trail Hikers on this portion. There are several staying at the shelter tonight. The Long Trail, which is coincident with the AT for 100+ miles has a lot of shelters on it. We passed 5 or so today. The shelters are quite a bit nicer and vary in design compared to those in NH and ME. Some have windows, and others have little tables inside or outside. Most seem to hold 10+ people.
Somewhat tricky hammocking tonite, but we made it work. Sweet Pea has her tarp spanning over some pine bows that were clipped and left in a pile by the maintainers. Using the poles to make the ‘front porch’ with her tarp is working pretty well. Beardo is parked on a good slope close to a stream. Would not have been comfy to put a tent in this spot.
Made reservations at a hostel in Manchester center that was recommended by several northbounders. Folks are saying that this place is the nicest from here south, with great proprietors. It is inexpensive and we want to do a short day (10ish miles) so the stop will be nice. We will get food for the next few days, wash clothes and maybe grab some good eats.
Daily Distance: 23.3
Trip Distance: 526.8
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