Day 135 - Lonesome Lake Hut to Garfield Ridge

It was a long day, but a good one. Walked three miles down to Route 3, then took a side trail to The Flume so Dave could use the payphone. He talked to Luke, who can’t hike with us now but wants to in a couple of weeks. We should be pretty far up in Maine by then -- and doing the toughest section of the trail -- but I guess if he really wants to…

Didn’t start hiking again til 12:30. I was a bit concerned, since we had a big climb ahead of us and many miles yet to walk. The climb was tough, but not impossible. Actually, the first part was easier than expected. 

I cannot get over the number of people who hike in the White Mountains. Mostly day hikers -- young, old, and everywhere in between. Lots of French accents. The trail was like a superhighway. I’m really surprised that they’d tackle such tough terrain -- and seem to be enjoying it!



We went up and up, then up some more. But no views at all. Finally we broke through the trees. “Can I look?” I asked. Dave said yes. I turned around and said “Holy shit!” We were so high up. Couldn’t believe the view. And it only got better. We walked along Franconia Ridge. So beautiful with the green trees, blue sky, purple mountains, grey rocks. We could see exactly where we were going. Very cool! There were still climbs, but everything was so open and free.



Climbed Garfield at the end of the day. It looked like something might be rolling in, but never materialized. Stayed at a free campsite with a platform. Cooked dinner and went to bed. Good to rest the weary legs and feet.