Some more trail magic, rain and rocks galore into New York!



There was a bit more trail magic as Tom left Vernon, New Jersey and then a bunch of rain! He has been tent camping for most of these last few days this stretch and going slowly.

More trail magic July 2

July 3 turned out to be like the children's book I recall, "Alexander and the no good, very bad day." The day started off with Tom sitting down to rest and setting his glasses beside him then standing right on them as he got up. You guessed it-they are now in pieces. Then the rocks did a number on the hiking pole that was still intact. After calling Black Diamond and sending in this photo a new set will be arriving soon. Thanks to the Black Diamond Company! You guys rock! The trekking poles are really necessary for the downhill stretches of the trails for stability.

Then the rain started a few days ago as it did for most of the southeast  and New England. When that happens along the trail you keep going, pitch your tent or find a shelter if it is lightening. It has been a slow few days. Tom tells me he was not expecting all the rocks to continue in New York and  it has been difficult hiking. The good news is that the rain has stopped.

William Brien Shelter-tent camped here 7/4/2014

 

Tom crossed Bear Den , NY earlier today and is hiking with Dependable Pete-this point is the lowest altitude on the entire Appalachian trail at 124 feet above sea level. There is actually a zoo right along the trail here.  Tom and Dependable Pete were crossing the Hudson River at dusk. Then spending the night on the grounds of Greymoor Spiritual Life center at mile 1405. They allow tent camping on the ball field and offer a cold water shower during the warm months.

Bears Den and Zoo -Mile 1395 with hiker Dependable Pete

 

We are also following the AT blog for Bud Schultz, who is the tennis coach for my sister Mary.  He has been flying along the trail and is in Maine now very close to the 100 mile wilderness. He is raising funds for TENACITY,  an organization that  works with underserved children in the Boston area. You can follow his adventure here:     http://www.tenacitybuddy.org/#

Tom has some information about the Frazee Dream Center on his main page and about the great programs they offer all year long for the children of Greenville.  There is also information on  how you can support their efforts. 



The following Facebook post was done this weekend by The Appalachian Trail Conservancy.  All of you grandparents, parents and teachers out there may want to download their activity book.

Appalachian Trail Conservancy

July 3

The Appalachian Trail Adventure Book uses word games, mazes, and more to engage and inform children about topics such as wildlife, conservation, volunteer work, and community. Dwld it for free at http://tinyurl.com/65dwh5d. How do you engage your kids with the great outdoors?