We spent close to two hours at the REI store in N. Conway where I learned more about equipment and shoes than I have in all the past 69 years combined. We were paired with a very experienced hiker who explained the in's and out's of everything I ever wanted to know about and more. Honestly, had there not been such a long multi day drive ahead of us, I'd have spent much more time in the store, just looking and asking.
As it was, I bought a pair of Altra Lone Peak trail runners, shoes that despite the name, are really light weight hiking shoes with much heavier, "four wheel drive" soles. I have a full year to try them and if I don't like them, can return the pair for a full refund.
I also found that REI will exchange my pack, a long, for a regular size. After being measured, we came to the conclusion that I did, indeed, order the wrong size. The problem lies in that my legs are short, very short with a 29 to 30 inch inseam, but from the waist up, I'm extremely long. None-the-less, I'll get the pack situation straightened out well before my departure time next February.
We made our way through the Whites, back downstate in New Hampshire, crossed into Vermont, and finally New York. We crossed the AT in Vermont, but unfortunately, driving in traffic on a four lane highway, we were well past it before realizing that was THE trail and had no opportunity to turn around.
No problem. It'll still be there next year, I'm sure.
We'll depart from Utica in the next hour or so with Toledo, Ohio, in our sights for later this afternoon or early evening. Of course, it all depends on traffic and how many construction zones we encounter.
I see Sargie Pants is finishing with her early morning girl chores in front of the bathroom vanity, so it's time to get this show on the road.
After all, a man's work is never done.
So are the tales from Utica, New York...
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