Rewarded with views and good weather 

We had a really nice Nero day in Stratton we did the typical resupy and chores as well as dry all our gear from the horrendous thunderstorms the night before. 

Today has been just incredible weather wise and trail wise. We all like hiking again.  

  

Saddleback Mountain

 

Good weather didn’t last to long. We did get up and over the tallest Avery peak but a terrible storm cloud that  

 chased us down to the notch between that peak and the next had us scrambling to find shelter. The fire wardens cabin was locked so we set up my tent and all crawled inside to wait it out.  

 
There were some beautiful views a top  Of West Avery Peak.  

  

  

 We even saw a rainbow.  

 The sky turned dark and gray really fast. It rained a tiny bit but the temperature dropped even faster then the color change of the sky. Of course it did. After carrying my winter hat, long pants and puffy down jacket up and over the Whites, through the Notch in Maine and over countless other peaks in hot humid weather I decided I didn’t need it any more. At least this time I kept my winter sleeping bag, unlike last time down south when I froze because I sent everything home that was related to warmth. Well, at least also my pack was lighter today. I may be a bit chilly but I was light on my feet. 

Water sources are scarce. There have been many postings that hikers have reported sickness after drinking from the sources in today’s section even with boiling and filtering. Glad I carry lots of water but even that’s not enough to go all day and be able to cook supper.  I may have to take my chances tonight. 

Happy Hiking

Emily M. Leonard

About Emily M. Leonard

I am a 50 year old Maine native and lover of the outdoors. Former Physical Education teacher and soccer coach. I am Married to the best husband ever and gave up teaching and coaching to raise our two wonderful sons. I have always enjoyed being outside and on the go.