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September 8, 2019
One To Go!
By Hal Wright
The author, AHC's webmaster since 2002, has pursued a 21-year quest to hike the Appalachian Trail in sections.
When I walked past the Rattle River Hostel and on to the trailhead in Shelbourne, NH, I had finished 13 of the 14 Appalachian Trail states.
This summer's hikes comprised some of the most demanding and rewarding sections of the Appalachian Trail so far. The southern Maine mountains and Mahoosuc Notch lived up to their reputations as the toughest obstacles anywhere on the AT. I remain awestruck as I reflect on the rugged natural beauty of the trail environment in Maine, and will never forget seeing a bald eagle catch a fish in Kennebec River as a waited for my turn to be ferried across the river. I also had the pleasure of meeting many of the hard-working folks who keep the trail in great shape year after year for hikers like me to enjoy.
With this summer's hikes behind me, I'm about 210 miles from my goal of finishing the Appalachian Trail in sections. I thank all those who maintain the trail and help hikers along the way.
The details: Two section hikes, (1) South Arm Road near Andover ME, to Shelbourne, near Gorham NH, and (2) ME Route 27 to ME Route 201, Caratunk. Miles traveled since 1998: 1979. Miles to finish: 210.
Looking Southbound into Grafton Notch State Park and toward Mount Washington.
The trail in Mohoosuc Notch includes numerous passages through caverns. This one-mile section can take hours to traverse.
A leaf is all that's needed to quickly fill one's water bottle from a mere trickle of spring water.
A respite for the weary at Sand Beach, East Carry Pond.
The afternoon sun peaks through a stand of Maine cedars.
Sofia discovers the Kennebec River and hikers waiting for the first canoe ferry rides of the day.
The Kennebec River ferry arrives!
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