Rain in Maine ...

... is causing some problems in this wild state.  Many AT Hikers can't advance since the numerous streams are at high water stage.  But after all, Maine is 

A journey over it (the Trail) in Maine is definitely one on a wilderness trail.  It probably is more difficult to reach and travel but also affords more of a sense of isolation than any segment of The Appalachian Trail.  Guide to the Appalachian Trail in Maine 1969, p 3-8.

Enjoy.

2023 Outdoor Participation Trends Report

 The Executive Summary is found here.

Does it match your participation?

Naked Hiking Day Summer Solstice 2023

 Some call it a world event, others just put it as something to do on the AT or Pacific Crest Trail.  In either case, it is not sanctioned, and I would caution against going free in Red States where local traditions may be more conservative.

American's are pretty conservative overall regarding nudity, while much of the other Western nations are not.

(brrrr, too cold to hike nude today)

So before you hit the trail nude, be sure to apply sunscreen, bug dope, and maybe have a bandana available to cover yourself when you approach that church group.

You may want to join a group of like minded folks too.

The Saga of Duncan's

 It all started with a 49 year old photo.

Ralph Ferrusi, my recently reacquainted hiking partner from the southern AT in 1974, sent me this picture.

That's Don, Benji, Laura, and me (from left to right) in front of Duncan's that before that day we knew as "G" that stands for grocery in the Mileage Fact Sheet from the ATC.

It was always a nice find to come across a gas station or small store at road crossings to get some snacks or extra food.  While limited offerings, I did buy "soda, ice milk & cigs (for) 97 cents."

So after getting the above pic, that I didn't have, I tried to find it today virtually since I wasn't going to drive to see it.  

Google Maps is good for that purpose and I have used it for many road crossings along the AT.  Even better is the option to use Google Streetview.  Here you can do a virtual drive down many roads, and for some areas go back in time.  For Duncan's the view in 2009 looks like this.

Then using Google Earth and historical imagery I found the same truck here in 2010

A more recent Streetview from 2021 is here.

While the imagery doesn't go back to the 1970s, it is still a thrill to see views that reignite my memories.

Lastly, here is the USGS topo from the era showing the route in 1974.

Bear Mountain Bridge and AT built 100 years ago.

 see the Wikipedia page here Bear Mountain Bridge - Wikipedia.  Construction started one hundred years ago, and the span opened in 1924.

Back in the seventies, hikers paid a ten cent toll.

SIU Sunset Concerts

Get ready for ...

For info, see the SIU-C page.