AT Day 148: Ponds, Mountains & Balds

Daily Miles: 18.8, Total Miles: 2,064.8

Eric from Sterling Inn shuttled me the short distance back to the trailhead near the Kennebec River. Just after arriving, I saw Lightweight a short distance ahead getting ready to head out. He is slackpacking and section hiking a good portion of the AT this summer. On a beautiful, clear morning, we hiked together for 12 miles, climbing to the top of Pleasant Pond Mountain, then down the other side to Moxie Pond where he had arranged a shuttle back to his van. It was fun to hike and share experiences – I’m sure I’ll see him again up the trail.

I rock-hopped Baker Stream which feeds Moxie Pond, and ascended Moxie Bald Mountain. Not very steep until a bit of a scramble at the end.

Great views south down to the Kennebec River and Moxie Pond. I also saw my first views north to the upcoming Chairback Mountains.

Ready to call it a day at the Bald Mountain Pond Lean-to. While looking for a tent site, I met the same group of teen girls and their fearless leader I had shared dinner with at Pierce Pond. The group leader said that squirrels had gotten into their food on this last leg and she had to call in a special food drop. The girls were still having fun and still making noise. I found a quiet spot a short distance away.

Saw more SOBO hikers today, most notably a guy with a stuffed rooster strapped to his shoulder. I could have guessed his trail name was Rooster. Later, a young lady carrying a real, live, loudly cooing pigeon, trail names of Pancake and Syrup. I’m not sure which was which.