">
Jul 8, 2022 : Eric and Hayley
Appalachian Trail
Back Above Treeline
DAY 8
We had our first significant climb up to Whitecap Mountain. It was fun to be above treeline again! We looked back and see our last view of Katahdin. The weather was so amazing with sunny blue skies that we enjoyed a long lunch on Whitecap summit. We are continuing to meet more SOBOs but everyone has their own strategy for the wilderness that it is easy to lose them. We have also been running into lots of camp groups backpacking and we started to see some day hikers. The wilderness is starting feel a bit more crowded, a theme we are sure to continue to see as it’s prime hiking time. Hayley unfortunately got her first blister but toughed out the 10 mile hike on more challenging terrain than the last week.
DAY 9
The day was enjoyable with fairly gradual rolling trail that has been easier for us as our legs have started to adjust. We hiked through some small sections with nesting Northern Goshawks and Peregrine falcons where we were warned to stay alert as they can become territorial. Luckily we did not have to battle it out with them this time.
We made a note to add Gulf Hagas loop to our hike next time we are in the 100 Mile Wilderness. We ran into Inferno and Honey Bullet who took this detour and have footage of Inferno doing an impressive back flip off a 20 foot waterfall into a large natural pool.
We had some nice views from Chair back summit. Terrain is starting become more mountainous versus the the low land lakes we had been accustomed to. Our legs are feeling strong, taking it slow has been beneficial but we are starting to look forward to our first town, Monson. Already dreaming of all the foods we will eat as it’s been a week since our last cheeseburger.
Camped a familiar stealth spot (stealth site = not listed as a campsite in an official capacity) from our previous 100 Mile Wilderness trek. Enjoyed a quiet, windy night alone with lots of hot drinks to fight the chill.
Happy 4th of July! We thought about our friends and family and how they are spending their day. We miss everyone! Eric could hear the fireworks from our camp spot, we assume from Monson.
Affiliate Disclosure
This website contains affiliate links, which means The Trek may receive a percentage of any product or service you purchase using the links in the articles or advertisements. The buyer pays the same price as they would otherwise, and your purchase helps to support The Trek's ongoing goal to serve you quality backpacking advice and information. Thanks for your support!
To learn more, please visit the About This Site page.
