Day 15 - Monday, June 27

Linda

Last night after we went to bed, Richard O'Berry came in. He's an Army pilot from Florida who is in the Reserves. He had been one day behind us since Katahdin, but since we slowed our pace, he caught up with us. We left the lean-to at 7:00 this morning and started up toward Little Bigelow. After a four hour climb, we got to the top at 11:00 for lunch. It wasn't as bad as I had expected, but I underestimated the climb to Avery Peak. The trail went straight up a rocky stream bed forever, and both of us really struggled, and were beat when we got to the top.

Ronald got frustrated with me and the trail part way up and poured out all the water. I'm not sure what purpose that was supposed to serve, and I don't think he knew either. It was just an act of frustration. By the time we got to the top, though, he calmed down and we straightened things out. At least the day was sunny and clear. We could see all around for miles. Richard got up a few minutes after we did, and we all decided we were too beat to go beyond the next lean-to. Made only 10 miles for the day, but it was a tough 10 miles.

The lean-to was down a side trail, nestled in the Col between Avery and West Peak, in a lovely setting. When we arrived, there were already two women and a little girl at the shelter, who had hiked up the firewarden's trail the day before. The women were pleasant to talk with, but the little girl Cory was spoiled rotten, and carried on till after 10:00. Glad we were sleeping in our tent and could tune her out a little. Ray had dragged about 6:00 and swore he'd never been so beat in his life. He really wanted to quit. Not sure what he'll do. We know exactly how he feels. Today was really tough, and on top of yesterday's events, could easily drive someone right off the trail.

Ron

We hiked the 10 miles from Jerome Brooks Lean-to today across little Bigelows and over Avery Peak. It was a long day with several long climbs. We were hoping to get to Harris Pond Lean-to, but the hills were too bad. The climb up to 4000 foot Avery Peak was hard. There was little water along the last section. I hope we can toughen up to the rough climbs soon. The mountains in this area are much steeper that the pervious section.

The weather today was beautiful. The clouds broke into sunshine and the views were great. It felt great not to walk in cloudy or rainy weather.

(10.5 Miles - 179.2 Total)