Trail Journal 08.22.02

Hiked 12.5 miles to Smart Mountain where we are camped in the fire warden's cabin to escape the rain.  Early morning was sunny but the day steadily clouded over.  Rain stared around 3:30 as we were climbing.  Wasn't too heavy then but it's been steady and heavy since about 6:00.  Glad to be here.  Happy to see the rain although it causes discomfort.  New Hampshire is very dry.  Crossed many dry watercourses today.  Found water in two streams but a couple of southbounders told us that the only water before Smart Mountain was at a house, so we were already full when we crossed the streams.  A homeowner adjacent to the trail lets hikers use his hose.  In fact, a maintained side trail leads to the house.  We ate lunch there.  Met the lady of the house who gave us popsicles.  Lots of ups and downs today--hard going.  Fortunately, the cloud cover kept the temperatures down.  Didn't really sweat till the final climb--a 2,360 foot ascent in under four miles.  Earlier we climbed 1,180 feet to Holt's Ledge.  Had good trail all day.