Week 13/7

The water source for Ensign Cowall Shelter is a classic little spring just south on the AT, crystal clear, ice-cold water. But there's also a little trickle just below the shelter, which I sought out and cleaned out last evening. I can remember momma scolding me for playing in the mud. Ah, did I have a mischievous time playing in the mud . . . What a great stay at Ensign Cowall!

The storm of last has moved on, chased by the gusty wind. As I head towards Black Rock Cliffs the day warms, but the unmistakable hints of fall are in the air. Far across the ridges, and with the sun playing its angular light against these ancient mountainsides, subtle beginnings of autumn can be detected, the muted shades of red and umber emerging. Fall is a magic time of year and I am walking into it, the season of harvest and of joy-filled thanks to our maker, the creator of it all.

The I's are passing beneath my feet, another sure sign of progress. And what are the I's? The Interstate Highways. I started with I-95 shortly after crossing into Maine from the Canadian border at Fort Fairfield, and now I cross I-70. I'll eventually work my way all the way down the Eastern North American Continent as I continue on the AMT (Appalachian Mountains Trail) and finally the remainder of the ECT (Eastern Continental Trail), crossing many more interstate highways in the process . . . to finally cross I-4 at Alligator Alley in the Everglades . . . and I'll also see my old friends, US1 and I-95 again where they begin their northern paths deep in southern Florida!

I stand and I chuckle again now at the Washington Monument, the first erected in Washington's honor and memory by the patriots of Boonsboro, MD. Years ago a hiker was overheard to have said, as he turned to depart the monument, "What a crock." Folks, it is a beautiful overlook and a great tribute to George Washington . . . but danged if the monument ain't shaped kinda funny!

Crampton Gap Shelter is my destination today requiring a good pitch off the mountain. By the time I arrive I'm closer to the highway than the top of the ridge, what with the whirring lawnmowers, bellowing cows and the near-constant groan on the road below. The shelter has been left a mess, lots of paper and trash scattered about which I put to immediate good use in preparing a cooking and warming fire in the pedestal-shaped fireplace. Old Sam rolls in, again with the fading shadows of evening. We spend a grand time talking and enjoying the last of this day.

AT Fun Facts The Pennsylvania section of the Appalachian Trail has a reputation for being quite rocky. Appalachian Trail Links Appalachian Trail AT Forums

What is he carrying? Check Nimblewill's gear list.

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