Nimblewill Nomad
Long Distance Hiker/Author
Journal 213-ODYSSEY 2021: Bama to Baxter-Hike On!
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Monday–September 20, 2021
Trail Day–213
Trail Mile–-7.5/2213.8
Remaining Miles–403.6
Location–Zealand Falls Hut
The AMC Highland Center (and the bunkhouse there) okay facilities. But on closer look, and staying over–well, mother oft’ reminded me (her golden rule), “If you can’t say something nice, just be quiet.” Anyway…
Odie came in last evening. So, this morning, Cat Tracks and me, we’ve a ride back to the trailhead at Crawford Notch. Odie drops us off there, then continues on, to park/leave his old church bus (his home) three days on down the trail at I-93, Franconia Notch.
We’ve a bit of climbing today but no Presidential peaks to pass. Plenty more of the usual rocks, boulders, and roots to stumble through.
Actually, we’ve a mile or so of more traditional-like hiking trail today, and we’re able to stride out and cover some ground. This is the first day in many-a-day I’ve actually managed better than a mile-an-hour average. We reach Zealand Falls Hut right at two-thirty, a six-hour day (to cover 7.5 miles).
Zealand Falls Hut is just as I remember it–special, very nice. It sits right on the side of the mountain, on a boulder-wall reinforced flat spot. I check in, get settled in. Comfy bunk. I take an afternoon nap. Odie makes it in well before supper.
Only one tumble today. Skinned up my right arm (next to two other right arm skid marks). All-in-all, though, it’s been not only an ideal hiking day (clear and cool), but also, a very enjoyable one…
We’re at the hut on Zealand,
And from this vantage watch.
The wind blow out the storm clouds, Down in Carrigan’s Notch.
The sun is dancing ‘long the ridge,
In splashing yellow hue.
This show? A reckless beckoning, A-callin’ me and you.
(N. Nomad 7-’98)
One Comment on “Journal 213-ODYSSEY 2021: Bama to Baxter-Hike On!”
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Nimblewill Nomad 
Your so lucky to have friends?
Wish I could join your long walk .
Wonderful journals and photos.
David breen trailmàn thanks ❤️ 77
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