Little Bigalow Lean-to, ME, AT NOBO mile 2014.4, Wednesday July 23, 2014 — The Bigalow peaks are in the record books. That’s not to say it’s all easy from here. It’s not, but the long hard slogging climbs are done, all but one – Katahdin itself.
The majesty of Maine remains on display. From the endless horizon to lovely lakes; from monster boulders to rocky trail, this state is special and stands out among the other 13 through which the trail transits.
This rugged country is especially challenging to the maintenance crews – volunteers one and all. The hard rock safety installations and endless miles of bog bridging could not be in place without incredible dedication. Some of these folks have to hike several days just to reach the area they need to work. Did I mention how heavy their tools are? I’m in awe of what they do and have done.
The Bigalows are special. As I cleared Avery peak, I wanted to linger, but thunder rolled in the distance pushing me to get past the final peak, Little Bigalow Mountain, before Thor could fry me with one of his missiles.
I barely made it off Little Bigalow’s slab rock top when someone up there turned on a remarkably cold shower. The motivational zig zag mood lighting spurred the pace just a little.
I arrived at the lean-to feeling like a wet puppy, but I was in good company. At the moment, we’re waiting for more drown rats to float in before someone throws the dark switch to mark the official end of the day.
Tomorrow the trail promises to be relatively flat. I’m planning to dash the 17 miles to Harrison’s Pearce Pond Camp which is noted for it’s massive breakfast. Stay tuned to see if I make it.
A woman simply disappeared without a trace on the trail last year. The area isn’t difficult or dangerous. Sounds fishy to me.
No bridges in Maine. Bull.
Tonight’s campsite.
Maine worries more about squirrels than bears! Not a good message for southbounders who are headed dead on into bear country.
Old fire tower.
Hikes off trail for water. Passed through this keyhole to get some.
Entrance.
Liquid sunshine!
Sisu: thanks for the great impromptu chat this morning at Sterling as well as all the great trail advice. Looking forward to hearing about your Katahdin summit soon. If you stay at Shaw’s in Monson, tell Dawn, Sue, Dick and Gary my feel are feeling great thanks to the down time I spent there. I’ll be posting to my blog (maxheap.net) until I hit Springer so hopefully we’ll stay in touch. All the best! Max
Will do. I’m at Shaw’s now.