Further, I packed a little lighter this time, cutting down the massive amount of food that we usually bring. The last trips we've packed in and out quite a lot of food. This time, we went lighter, opting to bring a few packets of trail mix each, and it worked out fine. It also helped that we had the hut to stop at for a bowl of soup, pumpkin bread, and lemonade. Not to mention the brand new latrines they've built there!
Memorable moments: Turns out my hiking partner Bob was getting sick (as of last night, he had a full blown fever) while we were hiking. We saw some beautiful falls going up the Falling Waters Trail. Then there is the 600' climb in .4 mi at the top of Little Haystack. The Franconia ridge was beautiful to walk across. Lincoln was socked in while we were there. I was disappointed to find that neither Lincoln or Lafayette had a "spike" for me to snap a shot of, but that's not what the hike is about, so c'est la vie.
Descent from Lafayette was particularly tiring and painful as we went down unending stone steps. "Agony Ridge" took it's toll on us as I pulled an MCL in my right knee, and Bob was struggling to take each step. Bob mentioned numerous times that he was impressed that I did not call for as many stops, and that I even outpaced him towards the end of the hike. Once we got off the rocks, I wasted no time to motor down the path to the parking lot.
Enjoy my pictures below!
Oh, one more thing: We passed 3 AMC volunteers (GO CROO!) that were hiking in supplies to the hut. They are incredible. We passed this one girl, and we quickly shouted "we're not worthy! We're not worthy!" We admired all three of the volunteers, and we hope we didn't embarrass them with our praise. So, if you are one of them, we want you to know, we really meant it! You all are great!
