9 Aug 2007
"Castanets (Jim), Boo Boo and Winghart" are still hiking buddies and are moving into New Hampshire this weekend. (Hanover, NH home of Dartmouth College). The terrain is getting more difficult and their daily mileage has been reduced.
Jim is in good spirits and is anxious to complete the journey. They will have company this weekend as Winghart's son and daughter will hike with them for a while.
Aug. 3, 2007 Update. Jim and hiking friends have made it to Hanover. They will be joined there by Winghart's son and daughter. They traveled 7 miles in 2 1/2 hours. Really moving out. They expect to be at the beginning of the White Mountain area in about 3 days. Jim reports that there is no water in several of the shelters, and they will be carrying double of their usual water amount.
While in Hanover they plan to visit the Dartmouth Outing Club. which provides great facilities and information for AT hikers. http://www.dartmouth.edu/~doc/ .
They will begin the dangerous White Mountain trek soon, and then will have the 100 mile wilderness to pass in Maine. "The best for last". Here's some advice Jim is aware of about the White Mountains from the Online Companion:
The White Mountains—One of the most impressive sections of the A.T., the Whites offer magnificent views, with miles of above-treeline travel. Extra caution should be exercised while above treeline, due to rapidly changing weather and the lack of protection from it. Carry cold-weather gear, even in the middle of summer. Winter weather, including sleet, snow, and ice, is possible on these high ridges year-round. Each year,carelessness ends in death for a few visitors to the Whites. Pay close attention at Trail intersections. The Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC) maintains many trails that cross the A.T., and the A.T. route is commonly referred to on signs and in guidebooks by the name of the local trail it follows, such as “Franconia Ridge Trail.” (And, to add to the confusion, sections above treeline from Mizpah Hut to Madison Hut are often marked with yellow blazes on rock cairns, to stand out in the snow.) When above treeline, stay on the Trail. This alpine zone is home to very fragile plants. One misplaced bootstep can destroy them.