Hiking is like jazz: it’s improvisational. It takes time to find one’s own
rhythm and place and courage to go solo.
~Sherry Blackman
August 25, 2022
AT miles: 6.1
Ascent: 496’
Descent: 632’
Weather: hot and sunny (mid-80’s)
Sightings: frogs
High points: chilling at the top of Raccoon Ridge and relaxing at the Mohican Outdoor Center
Since I only intended to hike about 6 miles today, I had a wonderfully lazy start to my morning. I took a long time to pack up, enjoying the view and the morning.
From the backpacker campsite, the trail descended fairly quickly to Sunfish Pond, a 41-acre glacial pond that is considered one of the seven natural wonders of New Jersey. (I have no idea what the other six are!) The pond was certainly peaceful!
The trail did a quick ascent up to Kittatinny Mountain (1532’) and then followed along Raccoon Ridge for several miles. The summit was lovely and had an amazing view, so I stopped for quite a while, enjoying the scenery and the day.
From the ridge line I could see several stunning large lakes. I wanted to dive in for a swim!
I love ridge line walks! It’s late August, and the leaves are starting to turn and fall to the ground. I think they’re turning extra early this year because of the drought.
At 11:00 AM I reached my goal for today, the Mohican Outdoor Center. Normally I don’t stop hiking so early in the day, but the next shelter is 14 miles away, so today has to be either very short or very long, and I chose short!
Run by the Appalachian Mountain Club, the Mohican Outdoor Center caters to backpackers. It has a wonderful resupply and deli. It also has neat clean cabins with running water, electricity, and bunk-beds. Amazingly, since I am a backpacker, I get to stay for FREE!!!
After enjoying my “second breakfast” at the deli, I explored the center, admiring the tranquility of Catfish Pond.
I intend to spend the rest of the afternoon curled up in an Adirondack chair reading a book from the bookshelf in my cabin!
Today is a great day for a long walk in the woods!