Hello! Currently I am taking an impromptu zero at the best hostel on the trail so far. Green Mountain Home is truly an oasis along the trail. There’s an entire downstairs devoted just to hikers, complete with a fully stocked kitchen, a living room with movies, a large dining table, and even a piano. Last night I cooked a large diner of spaghetti carbonara for five of us. They all thanked me, but I really got the most out of it. Cooking in a fully stocked kitchen is something I really miss. I wonder what I’ll cook tonight. The best thing of all is that it’s extremely affordable. $35 dollars got me all that, plus a bed with clean sheets and pillow, laundry, a pint of ben & jerry’s and a coke. It’s pretty incredible.
Vermont so far has been one of my favorite states. It gets the nick name Vermud due to some terrible trail conditions. It’s not all bad though. The scenery is spectacular. The woods are full of coniferous trees and ferns. Small creeks and streams meander through the forest. There have also been two fire towers; however, weather hasn’t permitted any views. Lately it has been very wet. That’s partially why I took another zero so soon after Williamstown. I was soaked! Even my sleeping bag was slightly wet. It’s interesting how much being out here makes you appreciate the little things in life, like dry socks and shoes. Or sunlight. Unfortunately bad weather also means less photos, but I have a few good ones.
Taking this time today I’ve noticed that I’m a little self conflicted. I’m just not sure how quickly I want this hike to end. Should I keep going fast and have it be over with? Or rather take more time and zeros, stop and smell the flowers and relax. Either way I’ll be enjoying myself, I wouldn’t give that up. Just know that one isn’t necessarily better than the other, just different.
I’m conflicted cause I miss you but you’re having fun 😛
Stop and smell the roses. Don’t miss the views of the Whites just to bang out the miles. I know I live here :). If the weather is bad when you are crossing the Kinsmans, Franconia Ridge, Garfield, Guyot, the Presidentials don’t do it, hold off if you can.