Day 108: A Day of Struggles and Surprises on the Appalachian Trail
Today was another challenging day on the Appalachian Trail, but it was also filled with unexpected delights. I woke up feeling sluggish, struggling to get out of bed as the heat and humidity persisted. Despite the push we've been on, the morning routine has been a real test of endurance.
Mount Greylock, the tallest point in Massachusetts, awaited us. We set off later than planned, around 9 am, and began the ascent. The climb was manageable, with a gradual incline and resting spots, making it less daunting. After a grueling 3000 feet of elevation gain over 7 miles, I finally reached the summit. The lodge at the top offered a much-needed respite with cold beverages and a bathroom.
I explored the monument, admiring the quotes inside. The descent was steeper, but not overly technical. The heat and humidity took their toll, sapping my energy. I pushed through, determined to complete the day's miles. The views were rewarding, but the struggle was real.
A pleasant surprise awaited us in Greylock. Trail magic in the form of coolers filled with snacks, water, and cold drinks was a welcome sight. We replenished our supplies and met up with Becca, who had prepared cold Gatorades and ice cream sandwiches. It was a much-needed boost, and we chatted briefly before continuing.
As we entered Vermont, the 1600-mile mark was a significant milestone. The trail continued to climb, and after a few more miles, I caught up with Shooter at the Vermont border sign. We officially entered our 12th state, marking another achievement.
However, a minor setback occurred when I realized my ear buds were missing. A quick search led me back 0.3 miles, adding stress and miles to my day. But I found them, and with that, I knocked out the remaining miles. I arrived at the road where Becca picked us up, offering fast food and cold beers as a reward.
It was time to bid farewell to Birdie, as we had separate 4th of July plans. Shooter and I joined Becca in Bennington, heading to the Catamount Inn for the night. Unfortunately, my phone screen malfunctioned, distorting colors, but it was still usable. We stopped at Taco Bell but opted for McDonald's due to drive-thru issues. Thunderstorms poured as we checked into the motel, and we settled in for a well-deserved rest.
Day 108 Stats:
- 21 miles
- 5,751 feet ascent, 4,432 feet descent
- MA Route 8 to Catamount Inn via County Road
- 14 times stove used
This journey is a testament to the challenges and surprises that come with hiking the Appalachian Trail. It's a constant battle against nature and oneself, but the rewards are immeasurable.
