APPALACHIAN TRAIL - MA - SLACKPACKING - DAY 7 - 9 miles

 Day 7 - Massachusetts AT - 9 miles

Coffee and breakfast were top priorities when I woke up. I needed a slow roll into the day to get my head around hiking nine miles. But as soon as we hit the trail—bam!—uphill right out of the gate. So much for easing into it.

Luckily, the trail was kind: not much mud. It was hot and humid. Temos reached 90. We tackled a few rock scrambles that kept things interesting. The real reward came at mile nine—our trail angel and shuttle driver, Mel, greeted us with chilled drinks and juicy watermelon.

Before dinner, I wandered over to the Stockbridge Library and ended up chatting with a lovely librarian who’s been working there for 51 years. They had a book club meeting at 5:30, and I was tempted to stay—but dinner won.

I went back for seconds of that incredible turkey chili. Cozy, satisfied, and tired, I was in bed by 8:30, to get rested up for tomorrow’s trail.

Let's get this party started

"Hiking has been defined as the art of slowly walking up a hill, while simultaneously happy and miserable!"

These are always fun to find.

Chipmunks rustle leaves and always makes you to make sure it isn't a bear.

Nothing ever tasted so good as getting this from the shuttle driver at the trailhead.

Visited the library in Stockbridge - this was the book they were going to discuss at book club that evening. (Next 4 photos from the library)

My room at the AIRbnb

Did a little shopping in Stockbridge. Quaint little downtown.