August 30th, 2018, Massachusetts
I woke up early and was able to get going by 6:30am. I had a quick breakfast and, when it was light enough, headed out. The temperature was perfect this morning-—much cooler than yesterday. Not long after I started I came upon a power line clearing with some nice blackberries. I picked a handful to eat and left the rest for other hikers and bears.
The trail was generally nice today—not too much climbing or mud. It was some of the more enjoyable hiking in a good while—just a relaxing walk in the woods. Here is the elevation profile of today’s hike. You will notice it is relatively flat, which is unusual.
Here is the one from yesterday’s hike—with a few more ups and downs.
In the early afternoon I saw something moving on the trail up ahead. It was small and, at first, I thought is might be a beaver or porcupine. As I got closer it rambled into the woods and I realized it was a young bear. It ran away faster as I got closer and I couldn’t get a picture or even a good look. But I kept moving in case mom was around. It was bigger than a small cub, so most likely it was a 2-year old out on his own a little bit.
I made it to Upper Goose Pond Shelter around 2:30pm. I have had multiple NOBO hikers recommend a stay at this shelter. It is unique in that it’s a 2-story cabin with kitchen and dining area on the first floor and a bunk room for 14 upstairs. The bunks even have mattresses, which is a first. There is a nice pond with dock for swimming, canoes, and pancake breakfast in the morning. It is an AT shelter and operates with the help of donations.
The caretaker was out when I arrived and the cabin was locked. I went down to the lake for a swim and to rinse out my hiking clothes. It was a perfect day and seemed strange to be the only one here. Some kayakers paddled over to chat—two ladies from Albany, NY. They said it was about an hour drive and they come over here sometimes for kayaking. We talked about the trail and they wished me luck before continuing on their way around the lake.
The caretaker returned around 5:30pm. She had two friends with her and her two dogs, enormous Irish Wolfhounds. We stayed on the porch and talked for a while. The two friends were from Washington state and the caretaker was local. She said she has been caretaking at the cabin for many years. The caretakers generally stay a week at a time before switching out.
