August 7 - Necessity is the Mother of Bridge Making

Post date: Aug 9, 2012 4:36:03 AM

The weather was again nice for hiking and the day began with a 650 foot elevation change over the first mile which would be the biggest ascent of the day. The hike would for the next 12 miles stay within stay within the elevation range of 2200 and 2800 feet and including some very pretty scenery including a picturesque pond.

During the hike, several of the anticipated stream crossings didn’t eventuate as it has been dry in Maine and flowing water more scarce than normal.

That said, one stream that did not suffer from a water flow deficiency posed a problem for "Five Pair" as there was no clear way to cross whether by rock hopping or fallen tree. Finding some good size rocks in the vicinity provided the materials necessary for "Five Pair’s" first engineering project and soon there was a rudimentary rock based crossing that "Five Pair" used successfully.

The last four miles were a gentle descent of 700 feet over the two miles followed by 600 feet of elevation increase over the last two miles. Upon completion, "Five Pair" hiked into the Piazza Rock Lean-to area and saw a familiar backpack. Shortly thereafter, a yell of her trail name by the familiar voice preceded the smiling face of "Alpo". Also at this campsite were "Bobcat" and "Joiner" and "Progress". "Five Pair" met "Joiner" and "Progress" at the White Mountain Hostel and again at The Cabin and in chatting with them, "Joiner" used the rock "bridge" that "Five Pair" had created at the previously referenced stream.

With the pride of her prior bridge work having helped another hiker and having eaten dinner and completed her tent setup, the day came to a close.

1965.6 miles complete/218.8 miles to go