Today, we completed our third section of the Long Trail.
The hike started off fairly normal. We had rain, but were in high spirits and as we slowly traveled uphill, we stopped to take a few fun photos.
As the day wore on, the rain continued, making the "trail" into small streams...
Turning into snow and ice at higher elevations...
We quickly became soaked as water crept through our rain gear and boots Fatigue set in, the cold made it difficult for us to use our fingers. We began to think that perhaps attempting a 22+ mile day hike in challenging weather was not the wisest of ideas. We moved slowly just putting one foot in front of the other.
The highlight of the hike was a surprise "treasure" that Eric found just off the trail. Who knows how far this purple star-shaped helium balloon had traveled before it landed in the woods to lie as trash. On this cold, rainy day however, the bright balloon was a cheery discovery.
We finished the day with a few miles of gradual downhill slope to the trail, rounding a bunch of picturesque beaver ponds, and rare moments of the sun trying to peak through the clouds. Overall, we were exhausted, but it was a successful trip.
Tomorrow...out to purchase new rain gear (that repels water)!
