AT Day 91 – Focusing on Fungus

Last updated:November 19, 2020

15th July

17.2 miles

Benedict Pond (1530.9) to Upper Goose Pond Cabin (1548.1)

I had a bit more energy when I set off hiking, more than I’d had in recent days. My mind was also more focused than it had been in recent days. I think I must have been suffering from a minor illness. Not so bad that it would normally be noticeable but when busting out 10-12 hours of exercise everyday it was energy sapping.

As I move further north on the Appalachian Trail I’m noticing small subtle changes in the trail. In Massachusetts there is an increase in mud and tree roots on the trail. Seemingly preparing us for the mud of Vermont, at least that is what I’m led to believe.

Today I chose to take note of the small things on the trail, the mushrooms. I don’t eat mushrooms. I never liked them. But I do like looking at them in nature and the recent rains and high humidity in Massachusetts has hundreds of varieties sprouting next to the trail.

I must have stopped to photograph 30 different types. From bright coloured to dull, large and small I stopped on a regular basis. I was buzzing from mushroom to mushroom on the trail. Several hikers passed me as I lay sprawled on the ground to get a good angle. My inner photographer came out.

At a small road crossing there was a sign mentioning a small store nearby. I looked 100 meters downhill to see Thumper and a couple of other hikers sitting at a picnic table. An enterprising young lad that lives in a farmhouse was selling Coke, chocolate and other snacks. It was like something from a Hollywood movie with some kids selling home made lemonade. For $1 a can I couldn’t say no. I even got to dump my rubbish. If the enterprising young lad started selling burgers he’d make a small fortune.

Not a mile later there was a cooler on the trail filled with scones. I didn’t think Americas knew what scones were but I am in New England. All I needed was a cup of tea and the day would be perfect. Well, maybe a TV playing the latest cricket match. Then it would be getting close.

Camp for the night was the famed Goose Pond Cabin.