Wednesday – 3 June

Destination: Kelley Stand Road (1,652.8)
Start Location: William Douglas Shelter (1,652.8)
Today’s Miles: 11.6
Trip Miles: 69.4

Photos are up!

No one showed up at the shelter last night so I was alone and cozy in my tent. It was a warm night. Since I had my longest day coming up, I was out by 6:30.

After the half mile side trail to the AT, it was five miles of relatively easy terrain. Then 1,600 feet up Stratton Mountain over the next three miles. The day was getting warm. I flushed a wild turkey. More hikers than I usually saw in a day.

There is a fire tower at the top of Stratton Mountain from which the view is the inspiration for the Long Trail in 1909 and the Appalachian Trail in 1921.

Vermont is proud of the Long Trail which is older than the AT. Vermonters say the AT follows the Long Trail for 100 miles. There are places where the signs only identify the path as the Long Trail. Both are marked with white blazes.

From the top of Stratton Mountain, I texted Thais, the owner of the Wicked Waystation, that I would be in the parking lot by three. Pickup was scheduled for five. About four, my shuttle showed up. Nice to have the earlier ride.

The hostel is wonderful. Full description and photos tomorrow. I rode a bike to the nearby country store and bought too much food. Made a call home. Took a long awaited hot shower and did laundry. Nice to have all the comforts including electricity and Wi-Fi.