We just got back from our hike. Thanks for the well-wishes here:

[forums.macresource.com]

I was a little nervous because (1) I've never been hiking before, and (2) I've never been camping before.

My 11 YO son is in great shape from his swimming team. I used to run marathons, but that was years ago. Nevertheless, I was counting on some deep-down reserves to get me through it. The father-son team we were with are seasoned hikers.

My pack was way too heavy - over 35 pounds...mostly because of my inexperience packing. But it was my load to bear, so I did what I could.

We left one car near Lee,Mass. and then drove the other car 25 miles north to Dalton, where we started our hike. On the first night, we hiked 4 miles south to Kay Wood Lean-To. We tent camped there, which was a pretty uncomfortable experience, as there were no more flat areas... I kept waking up having slid down to the end of the tent.

The next day (yesterday), our plan was to hike the full 19 miles to Upper Goose Pond. It was fairly tough...especially the down-hills...but we were persistent and we made it in about 11 hours. My toes and shoulders were sore, but all in all, I think I did pretty well.

The cabin there was amazing - staffed by a volunteer caretaker. There were bunks and pancake breakfast this morning. The cool dip in Upper Goose Pond was a treat after a long hike. This morning, we made our way back to our car and did the car swap thing. Right now, I'm nursing a few bug bites, but that's the worst of it.

The very most amazing thing from the trip was meeting all the hikers who have been on the trail since March - going from Georgia to Maine. What an amazing group of people - I admire their strength and determination.

Thanks for the encouragement. I don't know that I would run out to do it again, but it was an experience I will cherish.

Here are two pix. It was so beautiful out there.

You'll get the fever again. I'm glad you had such a good time. You make me want to go swimming too You survived it well. The pics are great.

No pix of black bears ?


Looks like you had good weather.

My first "tent" experience it poured.

The Trail fro Maine to Georgia was something I always wanted to do when I was younger..
Even just a few pieces of it will give the two of you something to talk about for a long time.

The first night, we had rain. It started just as the rain cover went on our tent... perfect timing.

By the morning, it was clear.

Black bears were a major topic of discussion, as the mere thought scared the crap out of our sons. But, no, we didn't see any. And we were very careful with out food.

this summer my daughter is a trail crew volunteer on the appalachian trail over by gorham, nh in the white mountains. she is spending her time refreshening the trail in several spots thru the mountains. your photos gave me a sense of what she must see everyday. i do know that her terrain is quite abit more rocky and she even spends some time above the tree line.

to undertake an adventure with your son is an effort that earns a thumbs up from me.

be well

rob

Black Bears are fairly easy to deal with, it's Grizzly's that can be frightening.

If you're going to hike some more I'd suggest some new hiking boots if you can afford it. Fitted properly, your toes should NEVER touch the front of your hiking boots for the exact reason you describe, down-hill is a bear in hiking boots that are too small. Plus, good boots are worth their high price tag, though that's not to say that good boots can't be had somewhere in the $100 range. If you're not hiking more than one weekend a month for 3-4 months and you take care of them they'll last you 4-5 season, that's $25-$40 year - totally worth it!

~A

Sliding to the bottom of the tent gets old fast.

That is why I went the Jungle hammock route. I got a good night sleep and wasn't carrying someone else's lodging. I hiked in combat boots and thick socks. I also carried the most water it seemed. Yes that was decades ago.

---

Staunton, Virginia

19 miles in one day is FAR more than I'd ask a beginner to do. it might have been tough, but remember that you've survived a trial by fire.

35 lbs for a pack isn't that bad even if you could have packed lighter.

The thing that you have to remember about people walking the whole trail is that it becomes a lifestyle. The first 100 miles might be hell but soon after that your body grows fit for the task. After 500 miles, people taking their first steps will think you're super human.

I did six weeks of walking in britain a few years back. I definitely recommend longer trips. They seem daunting but you're able to do more and enjoy more the longer you're out there.

---

Read "A Walk in the Woods" by Bill Bryson first. That should cure you of the desire to walk it yourself.

---

Comedy Central: Best news channel that isn't a news channel.

Fox News: Best comedy channel that isn't a comedy channel.