July 11 - Where It All Began

Post date: Jul 17, 2012 4:55:14 AM

The goal today was 21 miles away... the town of Manchester Center. So, an early start to the day was had and it began with a downward hike over a couple of streams. Upon leveling out, the hike went skyward for the hike up to teh summit of Stratton Mountain.

Stratton Mountain holds a special distinction on the Appalachian Trail. It was upon the summit of Stratton that Benton MacKaye envisioned a trail upon which the population centers of the east could find their way to the joys of nature:

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McKaye’s article in the 1921 Journal of the American Institute of Architects entitled "An Appalachian Trail: A Project in Regional Planning" was the genesis for the Appalachian Trail.

After taking in the site that inspired MacKaye, "Five Pair" traversed over a half dozen streams over the next fourteen miles and accompanied by "T", she headed into the town for provisions and food where they ran into Dos.

After completing their duties in town, Jeff, the host at the Green Mountain House Hiker Hostel arrived to transport the hikers to the hostel where the day came to its end.

1646.1 miles complete/538.3 miles to go