Wow, can you believe it? This is the last stretch. As I hike through the heart of the 100-Mile Wilderness, I am on the final leg to Katahdin. The terrain here is rugged, and the wilderness is raw and untouched, but I am excited, knowing that this journey is nearing its end.
I hiked up to the wilderness' highest peak, White Cap Mountain, and caught my first clear view of Katahdin in the distance. It was a sight I'd been anticipating for miles, a massive, towering presence that signified the finish line of my incredible adventure.
I topped up my water at Potaywadjo Spring, and while the spring is known for its purity, I still filtered it to ensure the water was clean and drinkable.
From there, the trail curved around Nahmakanta Lake, one of Maine's largest lakes along the AT. I couldn't resist the temptation to swim and cool down in its sparkling waters. Shortly after, I passed by Rainbow Lake on the south side and came to Abol Bridge, a 300ft (91m) span across the Penobscot River. Crossing the bridge marked the end of the 100-Mile Wilderness and the start of Baxter State Park, home to Mount Katahdin. It felt surreal to be so close now.
Katahdin, as it's often referred to, is the highest peak in Maine at 5,269ft (1,606m) and is part of the Longfellow Mountains. It is a broad massif with multiple peaks, cirques, and ridges encircled on nearly three sides by lower summits. The name, meaning "Great Mountain" in the language of the Penobscot Native Americans, perfectly captures its grandeur and significance as the northern terminus.
I continued along the trail, hiking down Old State Road, passing a narrow stretch of land between the Upper and Lower Tongue Ponds and then alongside Abol Stream.
Once I turned at
Katahdin Stream, the final ascent began, a long, steady climb to the ridge,
where the terrain became an open boulder-riddled landscape. The further up I
went, the rockier it got. And then, after what felt like endless hours of
climbing, there it was—the final landmark: the summit sign. A simple wooden
A-frame stood proudly at the top, marking the northern terminus of the
Appalachian Trail. I had made it. After five months, all the miles, all the
challenges, the weather, the highs, the lows, the beauty, and the struggle,
this was the end of my journey. And what a journey it's been. I almost don't
know if I should laugh or cry, feel relieved or sad because it's over. What I
do know, though, is that when I climb down, I'll be looking for a long, hot
bath and the heartiest meal I can get my hands on.
Now we have a change of scenery with the last two of the animal conservation series before we conquer the Pacific Crest Trail!
- 25 postcards received
- 20 local spots viewed
- 5 (60) trees planted
- my miles were from indoor cycling, elliptical, rowing and steps/walks
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