The Maine Train

By now we are at the Maine Roadhouse in Stratton, Maine. The next town stop is Monson, the final jumping off point for the Hundred Mile Wilderness, Baxter State Park, and Mount Katahdin, also known as Mama K. The terrain between here and there is not particularly strenuous, so our voyage north should be over in a little over a week.

I will be writing up a retrospective for New Hampshire. There is a lot to say about New Hampshire. It lived up to its reputation for difficulty and danger. Most of our energy since has gone into mental and physical recovery. As of just a few days ago we were back to full capacity, after not being sure if we would be able to make it the rest of the way.

There is much to say about southern Maine, too. The first big trail challenge was Mahoosuc Notch, known for being the most technically difficult mile of the AT. It took us 2.5 hours to climb, scoot and crawl through it.

We had a notable stay at The Cabin, owned by 92 year old Honey, a much loved person of the trail. Earl Shaffer, the first person ever to thru hike the AT, signed the dining room table, and so did we. The table is said to be promised to a museum.

We also celebrated Pickup's 21st birthday at The Cabin.

It's a shame the trail through Maine is so full of rocks, roots, and mud, because every time we get a chance to look up, we see a gorgeous wilderness.