I just finished thru hiking the Long Trail SOBO, from June 25 through July 22nd, 27 days. Perhaps for most of you that doesn't seem like a big accomplishment, but this 67 year old body is quite pleased that I was able to finish.
It was the most amazing, and difficult thing I've ever done. I tried a NOBO last year but had to stop at Rt. 4, as I was unprepared. This year I lightened up considerably, limiting my pack to 23 pounds (5 days food, 2L water), although it rained so much I didn't need to carry much water. I couldn't have done this hike without going lighter.
Along with my small items, i carried a Zpacks Exo 50L pack at 14 oz., an 11 oz. Darien UL Dream Hammock, an 8 oz Hammockgear cuben tarp, a 20 degree top and bottom quilt, which I'm glad I had, a 5 oz. Zpacks rain jacket and rain skirt, wore one pair of socks with my LaSportiva Wildcats, and wore the same wool tee shirt and nylon shorts the entire time. I did have another set to sleep in at night.
Thanks to Steve Merrill for the shuttle from St. Albans to the North Troy Inn where Sami, the owner graciously waited up for me to arrive at midnight. She made breakfast the next morning, and I'm sure she could be a professional cook. She even drove me to the trailhead in the morning.
Starting at Journey's End, it rained every day for two straight weeks. There is a marsh just north of Jeffersonville that I walked across in water up to my knees.
Stayed at Nye's Green Valley B & B. Marsha and Dave love hikers, and she got up at 5:00am, just to make me the best raspberry/apple pancakes in the world.
Other resupplies included the Best Western in Waterbury, and the Inn at the Long Trail. Of course Jeff's Green Mountain House Hiker Hostel in Manchester Center is a gem on the trail.
Who was it that first blazed the trail up and over Mt. Mansfield? They had to be either crazy or drinking. I've never seen anything like that.
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Pedxing - I saw your entry in a shelter log at the lower end of the trail, can't remember which one.
Looking back, this hike was one of the highlites of my life. I love this trail. Thanks to all members who posted helpful info on the trail.