August 11 – Minerva Hinchey Shelter (Day 145 – milepoint 1653.9)

Little Rock Pond: beautiful glacial pond with 30-foot rock cliffs on the far side. Cosmo and I were the first to arrive and we peer-pressured each other into taking the plunge from the cliffs. Exhilarating!

Huff, Puff, and Water Girl showed up and swam across to join us on the rocks. You think you’re in good shape until you have to swim a few hundred yards. Man-0-Man…

Walked the rest of the day with WaterGirl. The presence and company of a woman is a rare pleasure and welcome therapy. We arrived at the shelter with intent to move a few more miles but were easily convinced to stay and avoid the coming rain.

Also here are Cosmo, Huff and Puff , Baltimore Jack, Apple Jack, Wayward Traveller, Silence, and Ridge Runner, Maggie Mae. Maggie Mae mentioned a small stone cabin that was nearby and open to thru- hikers. Cosmo and I grabbed our packs and walked over to check it out. We stayed. Very cool little “shack.” Three stone walls, one glass, and a wooden roof. A beautiful view of a nearby pond and the soft mountains surrounding us. Dry, comfy, and out of the rain.

Aquaholic