Gentian Pond Shelter, NH, AT NOBO mile 1898.8, Monday June 30, 2014 — It was hot today and sweat became the word of the day. Lots of sweat.

Water was relatively scarce too, especially during the first half of the day. Fortunately there was plenty to be found this afternoon.

The water source for this shelter is a pond. Most of the pond water up here is brown with leaf tannin. It doesn’t affect the taste much, but it does look like strong tea. Consequently some folks don’t like to drink it.

After drawing drinking water, I rinsed out my shirt and cleaned up a bit. I needed it. The alternative is gross.

SOBOs (southbounders) were the theme of the day. We saw eight within 45 minutes. Seems the bubble of SOBOs who jump on the trail right after college graduation is about to reach us. That means extra competition for shelters, hostels and transportation as we go forward.

Tomorrow we finally leave the long shadow of Mt. Washington. In return we get to cross the Maine border and tackle what is reputed to be the toughest mile on the trail. Time will tell. Stay tuned.