Pen Centre
I walked the Pen Centre Mall, St. Catharines, Ontario, on Tuesday Evening, 23 May 2000. I also walked a bit on the east side of that town on Thursday Morning, 25 May.

Later that day, I walked around the Royal Botanical Gardens near Hamilton, Ontario.

         A Harpers Ferry, West Virginia afternoon: Monday, 2 September 2002+.
This Labor Day I drove down to Harpers Ferry and walked all about for about 4½ hours. I walked around Virginius Island; entered many of the park buildings, now back to normal after the filming of Gods and Generals; then climbed the hill, visited the Roman Catholic church; headed to Jefferson's rock, then walked about the working town. Drove the back way to Shepherdstown, WV, walked a few blocks there, then ate at the Yellow Brick Bank restaurant.

         Appalachian Trail: Sunday, 8 September & Monday, 9 September 2002+.
SUNDAY The Science Club at HCC sponsored a trip to hike to Weverton Cliffs. We left HCC at 1:00 pm. Weverton Cliffs overlooks the Potomac River and U. S. 340 and has one of the prettiest views in the Tri-State area. The hike was a bit steep, but took us just 30 minutes to climb to the cliffs. (The professors had thought it would take 45 minutes to an hour to go up the side of the mountain.) The Science club will provided water and trail mix, which was nice. They brought apples, but I didn't have one of those. It took slightly less time to descend, and we were back at the campus by 4:40 pm.

MONDAY After driving out to Smithsburg in early evening I got on MD 491 and then turned onto Pleasant Valley Road. I took that road to its terminus, then used my "first good road to the right" logic and ended up near the top of South Mountain (Canada Hill) on its east side. I got onto U. S. Route 40 from Pleasant Walk Road. At the top of South Mountain, I pulled over and walked onto the Appalachian Trail. I went over the bridge that takes the AT over Interstate 70. I had walked this bridge with my mom when I was a kid. We trailer camped at the Old South Mountain Campground off Canada Hill Road in the 1970s.

         Cecil County, Maryland overnight: Monday, 16 September and Tuesday, 17 Setember 2002+.
MONDAY I drove a scenic route to Cecil County, Maryland. I walked the public beach at Elk Neck State Park about an hour before sunset. It was a nice sunset. Near dusk, I started walking the 0.8 mile trail to the Turkey Point Lighthouse. I was alone, and it was getting harder and harder to see. I could not see the lighthouse; the trail seemed like it would not end. I was about 0.1 mile from the light, but turned back, as the park closes at dusk, and, according to signs, the police tow vehicles away.

TUESDAY At about 11:00 am, I returned to Elk Neck State Park to finish the walk to the lighthouse. It was great. I touched the lighthouse. A beautiful day: one could see Havre de Grace, Maryland across the river. Part of the trail is overlooks cliffs. On the way back, the turtle shell I saw going to the light produced its orange-headed occupant.

I then drove to downtown North East, Maryland and parked in the Municipal Parking Lot. I checked out a few shops, including an antique shop. Ate at JenGerBees's restaurant (nice hamburger and hushpuppies), then looked in English on the Bay and bought some Christmas cards. I bought a copy the Cecil Whig newspaper.

         Gathland State Park & Washington Monument State Park: Monday, 7 October 2002+ and Tuesday, 8 October 2002+ respectively.
MONDAY I got here late in the afternoon and walked around a bit. I viewed the War Correspondents' Memorial Arch and tooled around Gapland, though the buildings were closed.

TUESDAY After a doctor's appointment, I headed down to Boonsboro then up past Zittlestown. The park is lovely. The monument was open, and I climbed up for the 34-foot high view. I had it all to myself! The view was inspiring. I could only imagine what the scenic view would be a few weeks later, as the trees turned.

         Cunningham Falls State Park: Tuesday, 22 October 2002+.
Late in the afternoon after a doctor's appointment, I went to this park. I first took the Upper Falls Trail, which I felt was poorly marked. It did not lead me to the falls--instead, it took me to Maryland Route 77. As dusk approached, I made my way back to the trail head, then took the ½ mile Lower Falls Trail to the waterfall. With trees blazing yellow near the top of the waterfall, it was very beautiful.

Afterwards, I drove down to the lake and walked around a bit. I then drove Cactoctin Mountain Road out to U. S. Route 15, headed to Frederick, and ate dinner at the Barbara Fritchie Candystick Restaurant.

         C & O Canal Towpath: Wednesday, 14 May 2003+.
I worked Monday, so I had today off to compensate. I got on the path beside the MD Route 34 Potomac River Bridge, between mile posts 72 and 73. I walked south to mile post 69. On the way back, around the Antietam Creek Viaduct, I saw a goldfinch. I walked past where I parked to mile post 73 and then left. Total miles walked: 8. It was a warm, sunny day.

         Black Rock, Appalachian Trail: Sunday, 29 June 2003+.
After CJ's birthday party, Beth, Ronda, CJ, and I went up to White Oak Court (near Highland View Academy) and took that steep "run-off trail" to the AT. I went ahead; the others took their time. As we had a very wet spring, there were "new" rills to cross. At the Appalachian Trail (AT), it wasn't as steep. At the promontory, I was skiddish on getting near the ledge. It was a nice view, and we sat on the rocks for quite a while. It was a bit humid and hot, but the breeze at the overlook was nice. It was quiet.

         Susquehannock State Park: Saturday, 5 July 2003+.
I decided to visit this park instead of walking about Lancaster, Pennsylvania after staying overnight at a Motel 6 in York. It was a humid and somewhat hot day. I took the Pine Trail across the creek to the Five Points Trail. I got a bit lost on the Five Points. I accidentally spooked a horse in a nearby pasture. I finally found my way out. The Pine Trail in rather steep to do in sandals. The trails are narrow, and I feared I'd come in contact with poison ivy. (I didn't.) I drove closer to the Susquehanna River, then walked to both of the overlooks. It is a lovely park.

         Annapolis Rock, Appalachian Trail: Sunday, 6 July 2003+.
Will I ever learn? Yes, I wore my sandals again, and forgot my bug spray this time. The bugs "orbited" me, but did not bite. It was fine to wear the sandals, but the heat and humidity got me a bit dehydrated. I got sick early the next morning. The trail is wide, and the view was great. Some people were on the cliff's side rock climbing, their safety harnesses were attached to the promontory's top.

         Chesapeake & Ohio Canal Towpath: Sunday, 5 October 2003+.
I walked 12½ to 13 miles on the Towpath: from Antietam Creek Viaduct Campground (about at "mile" 69.5) to Milepost 63, which is almost to Fort Duncan. Did not see the spires of Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, but I was close—maybe two or three miles away. (This part of the path is between U. S. Route 340 and Maryland Route 34.) Afterwards, I drove over the Shepherdstown Bridge, made a right onto Shepherd Grade Road, followed Scrabble Road to Beddington Road to U. S. Route 11 and came home. It was a sunny, brisk day. I wore my new green sweatshirt with the "Vegas Elvis" collar.

         Maryland's Appalachian Trail: Sunday, 19 October 2003+.
Instead of doing an Alzheimer's Walk--I had no pledges, and my "friend" didn't sign me up—I walked from Washington Monument State Park to the Reno Monument on the AT , straightened up some fake flowers left on the Reno memorial and walked back--about 7 miles or 7½ miles. On the way back, I saw a few deer, the last being near Washington Monument State Park. I talked to this herd of deer that wasn't spooked by me. Both at the beginning and end of my trip, I climbed to the top of Washington Monument. On the later ascension, I had the tower to myself.

         Pen Mar Park: Sunday, 26 October 2003+.
There was an unadvertised concert going on, but not a lot of people about. I needed to walk. So I walked north on the Appalachian Trail (AT) from the park, crossed Falls Creek, and went as far as Buena Vista Road (?). As it looked like it would rain (as forecast), I headed back.

Lovely foliage! There was a scarlet maple on the north boundary of Pen Mar that I went to look at several times. The Falls Creek Valley was chock full of vivid yellows.

Once back at Pen Mar Park, I headed south on the AT, lost the trail to a horse riding trail, followed that a bit (it was wider anyway), and came back to Pen Mar via the railroad right-of-way. I then sat on a bench and listened to some folkies playing on the dance stage. I went back to my car, sat inside, and cleaned up the paperwork in "my office" a bit.

Here's the only online map I could find on the Pen Mar, Pennsylvania area.

         Maryland's Appalachian Trail: Thursday, 30 October 2003+.
As there was no Internet access at HCC for me to send out résumés—a Verizon cable broke—I headed up South Mountain at U. S. Route 40, parked, and headed south on the Appalachian Trail. As Daylight Savings Time had ended, and I started my hike at 2:46 pm, I only ventured to just south of the powerline crossing nearest Washington Monument State Park on the the north. I headed back, and was down off the mountain before dark.

Most leaves were off the trees. There still were a few yellows, and two green-yellow trees. It was fairly warm, but was getting a bit chillier on my return trip.

About five miles total, I guesstimate.

         Chesapeake & Ohio Canal Towpath: Sunday, 2 November 2003+.
I parked at Dargan Bend and went south to Milepost 61 or so, then took the Appalachian Trail Bridge over to Harpers Ferry, West Virginia. I walked about Harpers Ferry, mostly looking for water before the return walk.

It was a warm day (Indian Summer), and both the bridge over and the town itself were crowded. I climbed the big hill, but the Catholic Church was locked. I went into the Park's Bookstore and saw a book by former HCC Professor John Means, as well as copies of cassettes I had given my brother Bob on past Christmases. I went into the Park Ranger's office. The Ranger told me there is a water fountain in the bookstore! So I went back in and got a good drink.

I walked back north on the Towpath, past the Dargan Bend parking lot to Milepost 65, about 100 yards north, then back to the car. In total, I walked about eight miles on the Towpath, and perhaps one to two miles in Harpers Ferry, for a trip total of nine to ten miles.
Acrobat Map of the entire C & O Canal Towpath

         Maryland's Appalachian Trail: Saturday, 22 November 2003+.
I hiked up to Black Rock with Beth and her friends on her birthday, via the "court" off Crystal Falls Drive. Only two yellow leaved trees still offered color. The creeks were full, including the creek that crosses and flows on the blue trail up to the AT.

         Hirshhorn Gallery: Sunday, 23 November 2003+.
I got a free trip to DC via the Art Department's semester bus trip. Once in DC, I went to the Hirshhorn instead of the National Gallery.

I got some hotdogs off the vendor outside, then walked down to the Thomas Jefferson Memorial.

Wanting to do something new, I headed west on my way back from Independence and 15th Street and went past the construction of the new WWII Memorial to the FDR Memorial/Gardens. It was so nice out, and some leaves were still on the trees down there.

I got back to the National Gallery at 3 pm, and discovered there was a new exhibit from when I was down two weeks before: Christoffer Wilhelm Eckersberg, whose work was not something with which I was acquainted.

So, I quickly got to see that.

We saw What Dreams May Come, starring Robin Williams, as our on-road movie.

         Fairgrounds Park: Sunday, 30 November 2003+.
I did four laps, which equals four miles, in the later afternoon. It was a bit chilly, and there was a strong breeze.

         Chambersburg Mall, north of Chambersburg, Pennsylvania: Saturday Afternoon, 13 March 2004+.
I headed north just hoping to see a movie on the cheap—but now the cinema there is $7.25, with no matinée pricing. So, I just walked the Mall, stopping in a bric-a-brac shop to read, then canvassing the entire Value City. I bought nothing.

         Chesapeake & Ohio Canal Towpath: Sunday, 14 March 2004+.
Though there was a chance of rain and it was brisk, I decided to walk--hoping to go into Harpers Ferry. However, I parked at the Antietam Aquaduct (about Milepost 69.5), and walked down to Milepost 64, and then turned back.

It was a good walk, but I realized about two miles in that I should have parked at Dargan's Bend instead.

After returning to my car, I drove Canal Road to Harpers Ferry Road, thru Sandy Hook, out on U. S. Route 340 West, off onto Shenandoah Street into Harpers Ferry, then up (Washington Street?) and out. I then headed west on 340 again, then west onto WV Route 51, thru Charles Town, West Virginia, out to Inwood. It was raining now, and I headed north on U. S. Route 11 back to Hagerstown.

I had seen that the quaint Catholic church in Harpers Ferry was finished being renovated, and that was the idea of the walk. I didn't get close enough in the car to see the church.

         Codorus State Park: Sunday Afternoon, 18 March 2004+.
I parked at the ranger's office and walked east on PA 216 (Blooming Grove Road) to the La-Ho Trail. It was soppy muddy in parts by the lake. As I was wearing sandals and shorts for the first time this season, my feet got a bit muddy. I held onto a tree branch and dipped a foot at a time into the lake.

The trail hit high ground. I lost the trail at the old graveyard, then discovered my error. I took the spur onto Baumgardner Road. I took that road out to PA 216 West and back to the car.

I was walking about for two hours (2 pm--4 pm), but I bet I only walked 5 miles.

The plan was to then walk Hanover, Pennsylvania's downtown, but I opted to visited my oldest nephew, Bobby, who lives about 25 miles away instead.

         Greencastle, Pennsylvania: Saturday Evening, 17 April 2004+.
I needed a walk. As I am asked questions about the town at work, I figured I would get my exercise and learn at the same time. I parked at the Lutheran Church and walked about. I stopped in The Farmer's Wife antiques store, and spent almost two hours talking with the new owner and a couple who were friends of hers.

Not much of a walk, but it was a nice evening.

         Winchester, Virginia's Old Town: Sunday Afternoon, 2 May 2004+.
I probably walked at least five miles. I parked on Washington Street between Amherst and Boscawen Streets. Nice homes, and a nice day. The rain held off until I had left and had gotten a large frozen custard cone at the stand beside U. S. 522, afew miles north of the VA 37 "beltway," as I headed towards my aunt's house for a late afternoon visit.

         Fairgrounds Park: Friday Evening, 7 May 2004+.
I did three laps and a half, which equals three-and-a-half miles, after work.

         Maryland's Appalachian Trail: Saturday Afternoon, 8 May 2004+.
From Reno Monument to Crampton's Gap. So rocky. Got back to ½ mile of the car and fell. Bloodied a bit, but OK. 3:06 pm—7:52 pm on the trail. At least 5.8 miles one way. Add the ¾ mile I walked on the wrong path on the way back when crossing the emergency lane, and I reckon I walked 13.1 miles total.

         Fairgrounds Park: Friday Evening, 14 May 2004+.
I did three laps and a half, which equals three-and-a-half miles, after work.

         Maryland's Appalachian Trail: Saturday Afternoon, 15 May 2004+.
From Crampton's Gap to near Weverton Cliffs. It was threatenening lightning and rain, so I had to turn back. Got back to the car before the rain. 2:22 pm—5:33 pm on the trail.

         Fairgrounds Park: Friday Evening, 21 May 2004+.
I did four laps, which equals four miles, after work.

         Chesapeake & Ohio Canal Towpath: Saturday, 22 May 2004+.
At the Cushwa Basin at Williamsport, Maryland, I walked west to Mile Post 102, and then southeast, past Cushwa basin, to Mile Post 99. When I returned to my car, I had walked six miles.

         Fairgrounds Park: Sunday Evening, 23 May 2004+.
I did two laps and a quarter, which equals two-and-one fourth miles, plus walked there and back from home after a movie at Leitersburg and dinner at home. Estimated total walk: at least three miles.

         Fairgrounds Park: Friday Evening, 28 May 2004+.
I walked four laps, or four miles after work. (I parked at the Fairgrounds.)

         Maryland's Appalachian Trail: Saturday Afternoon, 29 May 2004+.
I parked at the lot near MD 67 and hiked up past Weverton Cliffs, starting at 12:26 pm. Because I did not/would not fully recognize where I turned back two weeks ago on Saturday, 15 May, I walked the path to the turn-off for the path to the Ed Garvey Shelter. (I guess I re-walked half of my previous hike.) I turned back, and ventured onto the blue trail that leads to Weverton Cliffs. There were people on the overlook rocks, but I still had a good view on this nice sunny, clear day in low 70s. I was wearing my sandals, and as I descended and neared my car, I felt my knees—especially the right one--hurt. Negotiating the rocks on this part of the AT flexed those joints in ways they had not been stretched in a while, methinks. I passed many dogs--a few on some sort of leash. Luckily, they were all friendly, but I hate that people break the law and inflict their animals on people like me, out to enjoy the day without wanting to worry about getting mauled. I pity the poor bloke who is allergic to the beasts. My allergies were a bit up on the hike; my nose filled at times.

After getting a little water at my car at 3:23 pm, I decided to at least walk southwest on the Trail to under the bridge at U. S. 340, completing my aim to have hiked the AT from U. S. 40 to U. S. 340 (in however many segments it took). I hiked down to MD 180, crossed, and waited for a long frieght train carrying mostly coal to pass by. On the other side of the tracks, the AT follows the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal Towpath northwest from about Mile Post 58 (and one-tenth) up to Mile Post 60 (and eight-tenths). I went ahead and started towards Harpers Ferry.

I crossed the bridge, got a drink in the Bookstore, and went up the stairs to St. Peter's Catholic Church. As it was Memorial Day weekend, there was a couple, costumed circa the 1860s, who were presenting. I listened to the lady, then hiked to the back of the Church, and then descended to the overview. A band was playing in the Lower Park, and the was a campfire offering wood smoke--a favorite smell.

The Towpath was busy with bikers. The dogs were friendly. The temperatures were unseasonably cool, in the low 70s at most.

I arrived back at my car at 5:46 pm.

· Estimated hike from the parking lot to Garvey Shelter Trail, to Weverton Cliffs, and back to parking lot: 6--7 miles.
· Estimated hike from parking lot to Harpers Ferry and back: 5--6 miles.
· Estimated total trip: 11--13 miles.

··· This trip closed the "missing link" on my AT travels: I have now hiked the Trail from Black Rock, south past U. S. 40, south past Alternate U. S. 40, south past U. S. 340, south past MD 180, north past U. S. 340, and over into Harpers Ferry, and up to Jefferson Rock.

It had been a bad week for me, but I got to complete a small goal at the very end of the week by finishing this "gap."

         Fairgrounds Park: Sunday Evening, 30 May 2004+.
I walked two laps or two miles, after coming from work in Brunswick, Maryland. (I parked at the Fairgrounds.)

         Fairgrounds Park: Monday Evening, 31 May 2004+ (Memorial Day).
As I walked to Fairgrounds Park from home, it began to rain. It got worse, turning into a downpour, but I pressed on, and found shelter in the Little Pavilion. After it let up, I walked two laps, or two miles, and walked back home.

         Chesapeake & Ohio Canal Towpath: Sunday, 6 June 2004+.
I parked at Weverton Cliffs parking lot, and used the AT to access the Towpath south of MD 180. I headed southeast at one-tenth of a mile northwest of Mile Post 58 and walked down to Mile Post 55 at Brunswick, Maryland. It had rained up to five inches Friday night and Saturday morning in that area, and all the streams and creeks were raoaring. There were some mudholes along this stretch, but I've seen muddier sections of the Towpath.

A tree was down across the Towpath, so I had to limba through--though bicyclists were using the Towpath. I don't know how the negotiated their bikes through. Some had children too.

At Brunswick, I went up past the MARC train station, past Mommers Diner, and went into The Brunswick Railroad Museum gift shop. I talked with the lady there--and broke the five I had with me and treated myself to a Diet Coke. I didn't go into the Railroad Museum itself--there was a fee--but I did go to the adjacent free National Park Service's C&O Canal National Historic Park Visitor's Center.

After leaving there, I walked up to the MD 17 Potomac River Bridge, and crossed to VA 287, walking beside VA 287 to the "Lovettsville: 2 miles" sign.

I used the stairway on the bridge's Maryland side to descend onto Potomac Street, turned south, and passed through Railroad Square and followed the Towpath back northwest to the AT to my car.

I started out about 2:22 pm, and returned to my car around 5:33 pm. A little over six miles on the Towpath, plus about two to three miles about Brunswick. The MD 17 bridge, built in the 1950s, is at least ½ mile long.
· Estimated total trip: 8--9 miles.

This was the second unseasonably cool weekend we had in a row. The temps this day were barely to 70° F. I had a tee shirt under a thin red plaided shirt (not flannel though).

After stopping for groceries, returning home, and having dinner, I walked over to Fairgrounds Park and walked two laps (two miles). My right knee was hurting again. There were no knee-twisting rocks this week. Either my knee had not healed from last week's abuse, or my "padding" has worn thin in the joint. A new worry.

· Estimated total walk for the day: 10--11 miles.

         Caledonia State Park: Sunday, 13 June 2004+.
On my one-day weekend, I chose to shop for a suit for an interview on Monday. After combing the racks for an hour and a half at the Frederick, Maryland Value City, I decided to drive up to Chambersburg's Value City. After finding a suit, I decided to relax at Caledonia.

I did most of the Ramble Trail and then went north on the Midland Trail and took the Chamberburg Water right-of-way back.

          Elk Neck State Park: Monday, 14 June 2004+.
While down in Cecil County, Maryland for a job interview, I decided to reward myself afterwards by hiking the mile out to the cliffs in front of Turkey Point Lighthouse. I then drove to the beach area. Although I did not walk the strand, I did walk across the beach to let my show touch the Upper Bay.

I didn't wear the coat or the tie on the hike. But I had on my good black loafers. I was a bit overdressed for the walk.

          Colonel Denning State Park: Saturday, 19 June 2004+.
After driving around in Big Springs State Park, I opted to drive on to Colonel Denning. I prefer a park office in terra incognito.

After a chili dog, a kraut dog, and a small pink lemonade, I hiked the Doubling Gap Nature Trail, including its shortcut. [1.1 miles] Still with energy, I hiked the Rattlesnake Trail. I lost this trail three or four times. It is not adequately marked, and there are a few trees that pretty much block the true trail and one's line of sight to the next mark. But, I did it, and it was a nice day to hike. [1.15 miles]

I then went to Pine Grove Furnace State Park and, after a PowerAde^TM from the park store, walked the trail between the lakes from Fuller lake to Laurel Lake and back. I started at 6:33 pm, so I was surprised to get this walk in before dusk. [about 2½ miles on way]

Total miles for the day: 7¼ miles.

          Colonel Denning State Park: Saturday, 26 June 2004+.
I arrived at around 4 pm.

After the traditional chili dog, kraut dog, and small pink lemonade, I learned from the park concession stand cook that the Flat Rock hike takes a long time. I had hoped this hike up to the Flat Rock overlook would be fairly easy at two miles.

It is regarded as a moderate-to-rugged hike, and is actually 2½ miles to the vista. I decided to do it anyway.

I only lost the trail once, but quickly found it. I passed several people hiking down, and two fellows with backpacks climbing the Tuscarora Trail, which the Flat Rock Trail empties onto about 40% of the way there.

People with backpacks, people with hiking poles, a man with a staff--people ready to hike--as well as people three or four years of age, and a guy in shorts and sandals (me) all made the hike OK.

A young couple with a puppy (Ruby) greeted me at the view. They had snacks (like cheese) and wine glasses, but I was offered anything. The view is nice, and the cool breeze refreshed. I rested back on a large boulder and took in the view of the Cumberland Valley for quite a while, then made my descent. I will remember the beautiful clear ponds on the farm at the foot of the mountain, seeing the town of Newville, seeing the mine at Mount Holly Springs, and finding the traffic on I-76, the Pennsylvania Turnpike.

I was second-to-last in the visitor parking lot, but I stopped to get a drink of fountain water, to see the Nature Center displays, and to pick up park brochures. I got back to the car at 7:43 pm. [5 miles total]

          Colonel Denning State Park: Sunday, 27 June 2004+.
Doubling Gap Road Trail (2.10 miles)
North Slope Road Trail 1.30
Cider Path Trail 0.60
Warner Trail 1.20
Flat Rock Trail 0.90
TOTAL: 6.10 miles

Haul Road Link Trail, at least 0.6 miles (double back--> 1.2 miles)
Doubling to PA 233, at least 0.3 miles (double back--> 0.6 miles)

So 6.1 miles + 1.8 miles = 7.9 miles, at least
4:10 pm--7:44 pm
3½ hours x 3 m.p.h. --> 10½ miles?

Doubling Gap Road Trail to left on trail to PA 233, then back to Doubling Gap Road Trail to North Slope Road Trail. I couldn't find the turn-off to the trail I wanted, so Cider Path Trail 0.60 Warner Trail to the "Wagon Wheel" intersection to Flat Rock Trail to the water fountain at the Nature Center to my car.

TOTAL: 6.10 miles

Haul Road Link Trail, at least 0.6 miles (double back--> 1.2 miles)
Doubling to PA 233, at least 0.3 miles (double back--> 0.6 miles)
So 6.1 miles + 1.8 miles = 7.9 miles, at least
4:10 pm--7:44 pm 3½ hours x 3 m.p.h. --> 10½ miles?

         Fairgrounds Park: Friday Evening, 2 July 2004+.
I walked two-and-one-half laps or 2½ miles, after coming from work near Greencastle, Pennsylvania. (I parked at the Fairgrounds.)

         Codorus State Park: Saturday Afternoon, 3 July 2004+.
I walked the southern part of the Bridle Path, walked around the peninsula with the Band Shell, and then walked the northern loop of the Bridle Path. Still to do: the middle loop of the Bridle Path.

With detours, I estimate by the park map and the time it took that I walked 6 to 7½ miles.

I walked about ¼ mile in Waynesboro, Pennsylvania on the way home, from where I parked to the hospital field. The field was where the town was holding its early Independence Day party and fireworks display.

         City of Frederick: Sunday Afternoon, 4 July 2004+
My brother Bill and I walked around the Historic District and got caught in the thunderstorm/downpour. Bill treated to Caquinas, an upscale restaurant with Mexican and Spanish cuisine. We split an appetizer of Spanish sausages with cheese. Bill had the chicken burrito dinner. I had the beef burrito dinner. Very nice.

Once home, I walked over to the Fairgrounds Park Fourth of July festivities (featuring a concert by The Tokens and a really good fireworks display).

[about three or four miles total?]

         Fairgrounds Park: Monday Evening, 5 July 2004+.
I walked four laps (four miles) around the track, after pulling a full day of work. (I parked at the Fairgrounds.)

         Caledonia State Park: Sunday Afternoon, 11 July 2004+. After staying the night near Greencastle (at Ben and Gail's), I did the Ramble Trail, Midland Trail, and Thaddeus Stevens Trail, as well as part of he Chambersburg Water Line and Trolley Trail. About 5 miles?

         Downtown Carlisle, Pennsylvania: Saturday, 17 July 2004+. I walked around Dickinson College and the Historic District. While at Dickinson, I toured the Trout Gallery. Nice. At least three or four miles.

         Fairgrounds Park: Friday Evening, 23 July 2004+.
I walked two laps (two miles) around the track, after pulling a full day of work. (I parked at the Fairgrounds.) Though not overly hot, it was very humid.

         Black Rock on the Appalachian Trail: Saturday Afternoon, 24 July 2004+.
I parked at the end of White Oak Court. I walked up the Blue Trail to the AT, then off to Black Rock. I walked up alone after church, and had my section of the promontory pretty much to myself. I stayed for about an hour. The breeze and lessened humidity were refreshing. As I left to go, Beth Howe and family--and a large contingent of visiting Korean students came up, and I stayed a bit more. I'm in pics now being shown in Korea.

         Maryland & Pennsylvania's Appalachian Trail: Saturday Afternoon, 7 August 2004+.
I hiked from Pen Mar Park into Pennsylvania, past Buena Vista Road, past PA 16, to the camping area with two log pavilion and outhouse.

It was nice, and it was unusually autumnal for August. The trail is unnecessarily rocky there though.

At least six miles.

         C & O Canal Towpath: Sunday Afternoon, 8 August 2004+.
I walked the Towpath from Hancock, Maryland to Leopard's Mill and back. I would have turned back a mile sooner, but missed the milepost. Just as well: this way, I've a lock and a camping area, as well as a milepost to serve as my terminus marker.

It was a just a bit warmer and more humid than Saturday.

12 miles total.

I ended the evening listening to Hagerstown's Municipal Band.

         Fairgrounds Park: Friday Evening, 13 August 2004+.
I walked two laps (two miles) around the track, after pulling a full day of work and leaving late. (I parked at the Fairgrounds.)

         Caledonia State Park: Saturday Afternoon, 14 August 2004+.
After walking the Leitersburg Peach Festival, I walked the Chambersburg Water Line to the Blue Blaze Trail to the Ramble Trail to the Midland Trail. On the north part of the Midland Trail, trees were down blocking the way. I reported it at the park office.

[2--3 miles total.]

         Boiling Springs, Pennsylvania: Sunday Afternoon, 15 August 2004+.
At Boiling Springs, I found Pleasantville. I walked their large park, and got on the Appalachian Trail (AT), which goes through the park.

Not very Appalachian, the Trail there. Flat, through cornfields. I don't like hiking grass in sandals and shorts.

Nonetheless, I hiked from PA 174 to PA 74. A hiker from Las Vegas, Nevada said it was 2--3 miles one way.

I walked over to their huge pool with a water slide. I got the URL for the price rates for my friend and his family.

I went in a couple of shops, then drove up and down the streets. I saw an artist shop, The Village Artisans Gallery, and went back to that. Over 200 artists--a very nice selection.

I talked with the manager for about a half hour after closing: they need potters. I got a business card for my friends.

         North Hanover Mall: Saturday Afternoon, 21 August 2004+.
It had rained hard on Friday evening, and was raining today. A couple had mentioned the Hanover strip while visiting the model home on Friday. I just ended up in Hanover. I walked all the "inner mall"--maybe 1 mile?

I spent a lot of time in Waldenbooks. When I came out, the sky was clearing, and it was cooler.

         Fairgrounds Park: Tuesday Evening, 24 August 2004+.
I walked three laps (three miles) around the track, after a full day of work and not having Net access. (I parked at the Fairgrounds.)

         Fairgrounds Park: Friday Evening, 27 August 2004+.
I walked three-and-a-half laps (three-and-a-half miles) around the track, after a full day of work. (I parked at the Fairgrounds.)

         Pennsylvania's Appalachian Trail: Saturday Afternoon, 28 August 2004+.
I parked right off of Old Forge Road, north of the Old Forge Picnic Area at about 2:30 pm. I headed south on the Trail. It was very humid—the most summery weekend of the whole summer. The Trail climbs a mountain, and it was steep. I hiked to the double camping shelters, my last terminus (on Saturday, 7 August 2004). I hiked back; it was maybe 6 miles total.

It was 4:44 pm; I drove north and treated myself to a Diet Coke at Caledonia State Park, but did not really walk much there. Instead, I walked some of the Chambersburg Mall and window-shopped.

[6--7 miles total.]

         Codorus State Park: Monday Afternoon, 6 September 2004+.
(Labor Day) once again I found myself here. I walked 4½ to 6 miles on the northern parts of the horse trails and about the shore near the amphitheater.

         Pennsylvania's Appalachian Trail: Saturday Afternoon, 11 September 2004+.
After parking beside Old Forge Road, I walked Old Forge about a mile north and back, searching for the Trail--then found it just south of my car. I walked the AT north to the second clear cut. This one has a utility line. I decided to check out Chimney Rocks on the return walk. It does not have a good a view as, say, Black Rock. It does overlook a large pond. Perhaps in later autumn there is a better view, after some leaves have fallen.

Since I put on at 3:03 pm, and returned to my car at 5:57 pm, I estimate I walked 8--9½ miles total. I did not stop at Chimney Rocks very long; the rest of the time, I was walking.

The goal was to hike out to the Mont Alto State Park Gazebo, but that was not possible, as the Trail does not go through that Park....

         Pine Grove Furnace State Park: Sunday Afternoon, 12 September 2004+.
I decided to get a trail guide at the Park Office and do a different hike this time. I walked the Appalachian Trail from my car, up the hill as it leaves the Park, past the AT Halfway Point (1,069 miles each way), past the Pole Steeple Trail, past the rock scrambles, past the abandoned road.... The abandoned road was my goal--the kicker is, it just looked like a trail. So I pressed on.

I looked for a landmark, so I could put on another place another day and hike back to it. I ended up using a sharp 90° turn where the Trail is well marked. Two piles of brush block the trail that goes straight there.

I had passed two hikers, and met up with the young fellows as I returned. They said the next road up, had I pressed on, was PA 34, to Mount Holly Springs!

I got back down the mountain before dark, and decided to walk up to Laurel Lake's marina to get a water or soft drink. I arrived as the sun began to set. The machine refused my dollar bills!

Thinking the main road would be the wiser walk back to my car nearer Fuller Lake, in the Day Use Parking. It was a long walk. My right leg felt like it would cramp up, but did not. My left sole was a bit bruised from the sharp stones on parts of the AT.

My bill was accepted at the drink machine in front of the closed Camp Store. I had a Cherry Coke, then looked at the map by the Furnace and realized how far I must have passed my goal of the road while on the AT.

I started walking at about 2:35 pm; a bicyclist told me it was 2:50 pm as I left the railroad bed trail and started up the mountain. It was 7:07 pm when I returned to the car. Besides my time at the cola machines and the Trail map, I was walking. I estimate I walked/hiked 12--13½ miles total.

         Fairgrounds Park: Sunday Evening, 19 September 2004+.
I walked over and walked three laps (three miles) as I pondered the whereabouts of my future--or tried not to ponder my future.

         Caledonia State Park: Sunday Afternoon, 10 October 2004+.
I hiked a new part of the Appalachian Trail--from the Park, south to the Trail's crossing PA 233--5 miles. Surely the Trail doesn't go up this rock wall? It did, and I did. I passed the halfway sign. It also had a nice overlook on it midway, looking towards the South Mountain Restoration Center, which resembles a church on a hill.

The downside of this rocky part of the Trail is that my eyes were mostly on my feet. Some leaves had changed color, but I could not enjoy them as much. Next week the colors should be more diverse.

As it would get dark before I would get down, I decided to take PA 233 North about 100 yards to the Raccoon Run Trail (which is in sight of PA 233), to where this "blue trail" crosses PA 233. I walked the rest of the way (about 3½ miles) back on PA 233. About 9½--10¼ miles total.

         Chambersburg, Pennsylvania: Saturday Midday, 16 October 2004+.
I parked at a Lutheran church in the north end of town, and Rita and I walked down to the town's fall festival. It rained some. About 1 mile.

After stopping at Rita's house, we headed to McConnellsburg, PA for the Fulton [County] Fall Folk Fest. We saw some nice stuff--including some new items I had not seen vendors at other festivals hawking--always a welcome thing. We walked out to a specialty shop, then down to the library to see the art show, then to an old stone house open to tour, and then headed back to the vendor area. The better festival of the day. It rained some, but more noticeably, it was colder up in this higher valley. About 2 miles.

I drove to Fort Loudon, PA, where we had supper at the Milky Way Diner.

About 3 miles total, at most.

         Washington County Museum of Fine Arts: Sunday Afternoon, 17 October 2004+.
I took in most of the museum, then walked over to the Mansion House Arts Center.

Later in the afternoon, I parked in the lot at Fairgrounds Park and walked three laps (three miles). A sunny but breezy fall day.

Three-and-a-half miles total.

         Boiling Springs, Pennsylvania: Saturday Afternoon, 1 January 2005+.
On a 60° F day, I wanted to walk somewhere. I ended up here, mid-afternoon. I walked "south" on the AT, past Gumshall Road, into the woods, past the first "cross trail," to where the Trail dips for the first time as it starts up the hills. About 3½ miles to 4½ miles.

After returning to town, I walked about for a distance of 1 to 2 miles.

About 4½ to 6½ miles total.

         Maryland's Appalachian Trail: Tuesday Afternoon, 29 March 2005+.
As I had four days off and this third day was so far the best weatherwise, I headed up South Mountain at U. S. Route 40, parked, and headed south on the Appalachian Trail at 2:00 pm. I ventured down to Washington Monument State Park and ascended to the observation deck. They have installed two boards with photos of the view to help one locate points of interest. On this sunny day that was helpful--but I do say that these boards will inhibit the view when the deck gets crowded. I pity the small child--or adult for that matter. Luckily, I had the deck to myself--as well as the Trail on the way. It was a bit breezy on the Trail--more so up on the Monument's deck.

I descended and went to the park headquaters to the drinking fountain. They have not been turned on for the season. I walked back passed a family with small kids, a backpacker, and finally a man talking on a cell phone quite unawares his large dog on a long lead was an obstacle in my path. He did finally reel the dog in and I passed unscathed. I arrived back at my car at 4:30 pm.

I made good time considering the Trail was wet in a lot of places—a stream in a few—we have had a couple of inches of rain in the past few days.

7½ miles total?

         Maryland's Appalachian Trail: Wednesday Afternoon, 30 March 2005+.
Today, I went to a new section of the AT to hike—a section that would help tie two sections together and complete my goal of the entire Maryland section. After seeing a beautiful small waterfall along the side of Warner Hollow Road, I hiked over a mountain and was blocked from MD 491 and going up towards Quirauk Mountain by a rushing stream. A couple of fellows and their sons(?) from Delaware had warned me of this back on Warner Hollow Road as I began my hike, right after I had parked my car. So I went back. About 1.6 miles total, or 45 minutes.

I drove over to Rocky Ridge, MD for no apparent reason, and returned to Thurmont, MD where I got Sheetz gas at $2.099/gallon--it's running $2.139—$2.159 where I live. I parked over at Cunningham Falls State Park. (I first stopped at the Manor Area went into the Visitor's Center and checked out the displays, and then walked the trail to the Cactoctin Iron Furnace remains.

On the way back to the car, I stopped at the aviary, which included several owl types, a kestrel, two vultures, and a bald eagle. That eagle is a very large bird.

About ¾—1 mile total.

I left that area and drove Cactoctin Mountain Road towards the falls area. As we have had quite a bit of rain of late, they did not disappoint. I walked the Lower Trail and back, then walked down to the lake (impoundment).

About 1¼ miles total—and 3.6—3.85 miles total for the whole afternoon.

Saturday, 9 April 2005—north from Caledonia State Park to southernmost crossing with Ridge Road in Michaux State Forest. 9 miles total at most.

Sunday, 10 April 2005—1-2/3 laps (miles) around Fairgrounds Park track before work.

Saturday, 16 April 2005—north from southernmost crossing of AT with Ridge Road to crossing with Means Hollow Road and Ridge Road. 6 miles total.

Sunday, 17 April 2005—about ½ miles walking about Tayamentaschata then 1-1/2 laps (miles) around Fairgrounds Park track before work.

Tuesday, 19 April 2005--about 2/3 mile about Fairgrounds Park before work. It started to rain.

         Michaux State Forest's Appalachian Trail: Tuesday, 26 April 2005+.
Today, I went up to Michaux State Forest (Pennsylvania) and picked up the AT where I left off last hike. I parked and headed north from the intersection of Means Hollow Road and Ridge Road and went about a mile north of the Birch Run Bridge (and its nearby Shelter). I stopped as the Trail went to the right and an old Trail went straight, at what apppeared to be a rerouting of the Trail east.

I was hoping to stop at a place I could park the car at next time; alas, I turned back at what appeared to be a trail bypass from an old route--the Trail veered east abruptly. I could hear a dog barking in the distance--another reason to go back.

I walked through a nice shady pine grove at one point. The wind was robust today. Had it not been, I may have been hot in my mock turtle neck. The weather held out for me--mostly sunny with pleasant temps.

It was my Trail--I passed one hiker on the way back, that is all.

I put on at 2:30 pm and returned to my car at 4:58 pm. I'm guessing 7½ miles total.

Side Note: The worst thing of the day was that in my haste in getting on with the hike, I neglected to see my gas level drop before entering the State Forest. I worried on it while walking.

After the hike, I played chicken with the thing on my descent on Ridge Road. I tend to speed when I think I'm going to run out of gas. On a gravel state park road with no guard rails, that was mighty stupid. But I got to the Sunoco at Mt. Alto Road and U. S. 30 in time.

I went in the store and bought a water for me. I surprisingly got good mileage out of that tank ($2.159/gallon).

         Michaux State Forest's Appalachian Trail: Wednesday, 27 April 2005+.
I was so close to Shippensburg Road when I turned back Tuesday--I just didn't know it.

I parked at the space by the gate at Dead Woman's Hollow Road and Ridge Road. I walked south to Shippensburg Road then continued past where I stopped yesterday--I was not sure to Birch Run Bridge--where, of course, I was sure I had walked yesterday. 1:30 pm--3:09 pm--about 4½ miles.

I came back to my car, had some water, and headed north. I detoured ¼ mile to Michener Cabin, then went back up the hill to the AT. I went north to Woodrow Road and returned to my car. 3:30 pm--4:58 pm--about 4½ miles.

Total hiking today: about 9 miles.

I drove down Big Pond Road to leave the mountain.

         Fairgrounds Park: Sunday Afternoon, 1 May 2005+.
I walked four laps and bit more before going to work. It was a little cool and windy, but the worst thing was dodging dogs on pointlessly long leads.
About 4-1/8 miles total.

         Michaux State Forest's Appalachian Trail: Sunday Afternoon, 8 May 2005+ & Monday Afternoon, 9 May 2005+.
I hiked from the road to Chimney Rocks. Although I want to hike the AT one-way north from PA 233 to US 30 for "consistency,"I have now linked my excursions on the AT from Pine Grove Furnace State Park into Pen Mar Park, Maryland.

         Maryland's Appalachian Trail: Saturday Afternoon, 14 May 2005+.
I climbed the Blue Trail off of White Oak Court to reach the Trail. The first day warm enough for me to wear shorts--and my sandals. The forecast and the skies both portended thunderstorms. As soon as I reached the AT it seemed I heard far away thunder. I decided I would turn back if I felt the thunder.

I headed north on new Trail (to me), hoping to find the next "put-on" point. Instead, I perhaps got one mile north and the thunder was felt. I used my car key to mark a fallen tree with my initials, as no "all seasons" landmark was available.

Back at the intersection with the Blue Trail, everyone from Black Rock (just south on the AT) and maybe a few campers were heading down, which meant slow traffic. I wanted to get to the car before the storm. The traffic jam on the Blue Trail prevented that. My feet were sliding in my sandals--thanks in part on my emersing them in the spring on the way down.

I eventually got to pass some people, and at the bottom of the Trail, the sun re-appeared.

I tried this section today to be near Highland View Academy (HVA), as a friend's final concert was there that night. I was on my hike for all of 1 hour, 10 minutes. I killed time by heading north on Crystal Falls Drive looking for other Trail access points; I found none.

I drove down MD Route 17 and did notice the Trail crossing there, then got lost in road detours. I ate at the new Myersville Burger King, then discovered trees down from a mini-tornado at Beaver Creek-- only a few miles from where I was during the storm. I made it back to HVA in plenty of time for the concert.

2½--3½ miles total.

         Fairgrounds Park: Sunday Afternoon, 22 May 2005+.
I walked two-and-a-half laps before going to work.
About 2½ miles total.
 
         Maryland's Appalachian Trail: Thursday Afternoon, 26 May 2005+.
I parked on MD Route 17 south of the Appalachian Trail at 1:31 pm and walked up a hill on a trail that I thought was the AT but was not. I retraced my steps and crossed MD 17 and walked a Blue Trail which paralleled 17 and meets up with the AT. I headed south on the AT.

My goal was to get to the place I had to stop at on Saturday, 14 May. I had marked my initials with my car key in a fallen tree at that place.

I was unsure of how far it was. I tried looking online, but unfortunately no one has put a good AT map online--at least online for free.

The Trail was rocky in places--many places. It was a nice day and I chose to wear my sandals. After ascending to the top of the mountain, a nice breeze kicked in and kept me company.

I passed three hikers about 100 yards apart; the last one asked for info on what's ahead. I missed my "trailmarker" --things started to look familiar but then did not. I was very surprised to come upon the Blue Trail to White Oak Road (off of Crystal Falls Drive). I decided to wet my feet in the spring about 300 feet into the trail.

As I returned, I felt a sharp sensation on top of my right sandal. Some beetle or bug had gotten under my sandal and stung me on top of my foot. I took off the sandal, but I saw a little bite mark. It did not seem to be swelling. I put the sandal back on and sallied forth again.

My left knee was bothering me. Twisting on rocks will do that. I could see putting the Trail over the rocks if the view on the top was occasionally cleared so you could look down on the Middletown Valley. It is not.

I went off on the unmarked well-worn side trail to some high rocks that would afford such a view. Once at their base, however, I realized that to ascend them would take more effort than I wished to make. But I broke open my granola bar and ate that there.

I descended the mountain and crossed MD 17. My left leg was very sore, but I decided to see if I could extend my "victory" to MD Route 77. Surely it was not that far away.

I passed the spring trail, the shelter, and it got rocky in parts and was ascending. I saw a clearing ahead, and hoped it was MD 77. It was a power line crossing. I pressed on, and a husband and wife approached from 77. The husband said, "Well, there's a hard-core hiker!" in reference to my just wearing sandals. We talked; they had moved to the area and had started hiking the AT. Today they started at Pen Mar and were staying overnight at the shelter. Nice couple.

After going about 180° around a rock outcropping, the Trail eventually goes out into a field. The breeze felt so good there and some pleasant scent was offered in the air. A couple of houses were down the hill from the Trail. It was a nice view.

I could hear the traffic on 77. The Trail went into woods, crossed a couple of little streams, and the delivered me at 77--a road I had travelled back to Hagerstown on the previous Thursday. I crossed the road, touched the trailmarker post, and headed back.

My left leg ached on the way back. If only I could have taped around my knee! I slowly made my way back. I decided to scope the spring and headed off on that muddy Blue Trail. This was not like the spring near Black Rock from earlier in the day. I could not dip my feet in--and the water was stagnant in the rock pool and was not flowing. I passed on that, but did wet my feet at the stream I soon crossed once I was back on the AT, just before the Blue Trail to the parking lot.

I arrived back at my car at about 6:53 pm. That was a little over five hours of walking. At three miles per hour, that could be a little over 15 miles--or 7½ of Trail each way. It felt like it.

From looking at a Mapquest map, it looks like it must be at least 6 miles each way.
 
         Maryland's Appalachian Trail: Saturday Afternoon, 28 May 2005+.
It was raining. A lot. The forecast said it would clear, so I mailed letters and headed east on Clayhill Road. It rained harder. I did shopping in Rouzersville's Dollar General. It was still wet, and I headed up Old Forge Road. I had been meaning to drive Rattlesnake Road--what better time to drive a gravel, State Forest road than in the rain? I headed east on PA 16 to Blue Ridge Summit. As I descended on Ritchie Acess Road and was planning to turn towards Pen Mar Park, the sun appeared. I headed south, picked up MD Route 491, and parked on Warner Hollow Road.

At about 2:22 pm, I parked near the falls, and walked south on the AT. The stream was easily crossable this time, even in my sandals.

The Trail heads up a good-sized hill. Mostly through "rainforest"--well, ferns and a lot of undergrowth--and it was drizzling now and again. The bad part was the Trail was narrow along this stretch--unsettling when one has shorts on and can't identify poison ivy.

It was farther than I expected to reach MD Route 77, but eventually the field and then the raod came into view. I passed the marker post I had touched on Thursday, 26 May, crossed the road, and returned.

As I re-entered the canopy of trees, I could hear people talking loudly. I anticipated meeting these folks soon. It sounded like someone talking on their cell phone. It was annoying.

The talking got louder. Some guy expounding on a theory--or a movie--about brains. Although a weekend, I did not expect anyone else to be hiking the Trail in the rain.

I was short when the guy with the grizzled beard and his female companion passed me from behind.

I slowed to eat my granola, and it was a while before they were out of earshot.

I arrived back at my car at 4:22 pm. 4.5 to 5.5 miles round trip.

My next goal was to park along MD Route 491 and cross the other stream I could not get across on Wednesday, 30 March. It was 4:35 pm. The Trail descends from the MD 491 guard rail, and as I walked down towards that stream, I again passed the loud hiker. I said "hey" and crossed the stream--and today, one could cross this larger, deeper creek without getting wet too.

Surely I would not see the loud hiker again. I decided to check out the AT north of 491, though I was tired. It is a great ascent, and I was tired of it, but pressed on after again having to say "hey" to the loud hiker, who was resting with his companion on the way up.

I took the Blue Trail to Raven's Rock. You can't miss Raven's Rock, and the surrounding promontories. You think you're in the middle of the old Land of the Lost TV series set.

I ventured out onto the rock, and touched its point with my hand. You cannot see 491 from here, but you can scope Smithsburg and beyond.

Once back out on the AT, I decided to continue north, and came upon a lovely sitting on another promontory--if only to keep me on the Trail, as it veered right there. And she had a guy with her. It was nice once the Trail leveled off. It was sunny, but there was shade atop the mountain. A sweet scent was offered by something from nature. what it was I don't know.

Whoa! Equipment failure?! I noticed the elastic of the back strap on my right sandal looked like it was about to break. I cannot do the Trail with a flip-flop.

I decided to end at the Blue Trail to the Devil's Racecourse Shelter. Well, I'll go see the Shelter, I thought, as it was 0.3 miles away.

The Devil's Racecourse, it seemed, was not some distict feature of the terrain, like a ravine or run. It was the Blue Trail itself. It descended the side of the mountain rapidly with switchbacks. Had a young boy camping with his folks atop the mountain had not been easily scampering back up as I descended, I think I might have turned back. But with all those campers watching, my pride was at the mercy of strangers.

The shelter is an old log structure at a place the Trail levels off. The direction sign at the AT stated it's about half the way to where the trail meets Ritchie Road. The area needs a bit of weedwacking.

As I returned from the shelter, heading back up the mountain, the loud hiker and his companion approached. they asked where the shelter was, and I was friendlier to them this time. I hated being rude, but his previous encroachment on my solitude peeved me. I hope my niceness this time restored the Universe to its proper balance. (Hey, if you're dumb enough to try the Trail in worn sandals, without gear or supplies, you might as well go ahead and get all Zen too.)

I arrived back down at the car at 6:15 pm. According to the sign at the AT and The Blue Trail to the Devil's Racecourse, it is 1.0 mile from this intersection to Raven's Rock. It's a little more to back down at the AT and MD 491, say 0.1 to 0.2 miles.

2.8 miles to 3.0 miles .

Total for the day: 7.3 to 8.5 miles.

         Michaux State Forest's Appalachian Trail: Sunday, 29 May 2005+.
After bypassing the AT sign as I headed northeast on Pine Grove Road, I serendipitously backtracked and found a great place to park on Myerstown Road, near a blue cross with the name "Steven" on it as well as a picture of a deer. At 2:22 pm, I walked out to Pine Grove Road, crossed it, and headed north on the AT.

The goal was to cross up to PA Route 94 and on to the next creek that crossed the Trail.

The Trail was a sooty black gravel and paralleled a rail line as it made its way through wetlands. Perhaps this part was on an old trolley line. The Trail crossed the tracks and went through a small filed of high grass then crossed PA Route 34. On this side it ranged from dirt to stones to pine straw. The Trail went over a hill and there was a good bit where vehicles could not be heard.

This was a longer stretch than I had expected; at some point I forgot the creek was after PA 94 and could not understand why I had not yet crossed it. I was glad to begin hearing traffic. The Trail quickly descended a slope to reach 94. I crossed the roadway but decided to turn back here.

I returned to the car at 4:40 pm and drank some water. I pulled the car down to the next wide pull over, at most 100 feet closer to the Trail.

About 6½ miles round trip.

I had evening plans (dinner and a movie with a friend at Chambersburg Mall), but I had a little time before I had to leave. At 4:46 pm, I then walked south on the AT to the Blue Trail leading to Togg Run Shelter. The sign stated "2 Mile" but looked like there should be a decimal point before the "2." Remember yesterday with the Devil's Racecourse Shelter, I was glad to meet a hiker on his way from the shelter. I asked him where it was, and he said "right there."

This was a nice new shelter with Texture 111 siding. It was large, and someone had left three paperbacks for nighttime entertainment.

I hiked back along the Trail with the southbound "through" hiker, who had decided to hike a little more before calling it a day. He was a nice young man, probably in his twenties. I gave him some of my vast experience with the Trail he will encounter in the next few days. It is so funny to be able to do that.

I hope he camped out well; I don't think he realized how far it was to the next shelter (11 miles) or the time (a little after 5 pm). I pointed both out to him before I headed back north on the AT. With the gear in his large backpack, I'm sure he made out OK.

I arrived back at my car at 5:29 pm. About 2¼ miles round trip.

Total mileage this day: 8¾.

         Michaux State Forest's Appalachian Trail: Memorial Day--Monday, 30 May 2005+.
I drove from Shippenburg Road east to Wenksville Road to Old Railroad Road to Piney Road. I parked in the large ATV parking lot and then walked over to the gated portion of Piney Road. It was 1:40 pm and drizzling.

Although my map did not show Steeple Pole Trail linking this road to the Appalalchian Trail, the plan was to use this road to get to a new part of the AT.

Although it was not a short cut, I felt the road would be an easier route and new to me, rather than retracing a very large portion of trail right from out of Pine Grove Furnace State Park.

I walked at least a mile on the road as it descended a bit. I found a well-mowed trail to the north and it did indeed cross over to the AT--but was not the Steeple Pole. Once on the AT, I immediately came upon the Steeple Pole Trail.

The Trail becomes a rock scramble at two points, but unfortuantely does not provide any view. I passed a large group of hikers--perhaps a school group.

I came upon two sections of "new Trail"--trail new enough to not have been cut level by treads of hikers. It was over "springy" moss/wood chips, and was, except for the occasional root grabbing my sandals, a nice change compared to the scambles and rock spikes of other sections of today's walk.

It was overcast. I thought I heard a clap of thunder in the distance. I knew this was going to be a long section of Trail, but hoped to connect with yesterday's southernmost point at Togg Run Shelter's Blue Trail.

It got darker, and though I knew it was not dusk yet, I also knew a rain or clouds would bring dusk on a lot sooner--and there were to many rocks and roots--and turns--to attempt this in bad light. I wanted to find a good "landmark" and call it a day.

After passing a cross trail--perhaps that headed east to the end of the cul-de-sac on Piney Road--I continued on the AT for a half mile or so, walking on white large gravel that was placed between the occasional cross timber for erosion control as the AT took on a rise. I stopped at a marked tree near a barren brown hill to the west. I'm hoping the hill will be recognizable when I next go on again and head south from Pine Grove Road.

My sandals held up, but a sharp stone hit my sole at it's thinnest point. The adhesive bandages I had applied to my left outer ankle had fallen off before I left Piney Road. It was a bit chilly for shorts and a polo shirt. I appreciated how far I walked on the AT--and the Piney Road. Back on Piney Road, it began to drizzle ever so slighty once more. I arrived back at the car at 5:46 pm. The sky cleared quite a bit later on.

Estimated travel length: six miles one way; 12 miles total.

         Fairgrounds Park: Sunday, 12 June 2005+.
One lap (mile) after work. I then drove to Greencastle, PA and walked that town for about a mile or so.
2 miles total.

Wednesday, 22 June 2005+
After Carol's funeral and reception, I drove down to Cresston Park, parked at the Twin Oaks Park--what we called "the Little Field," and walked down Hilltop to Cresston Road. The next door neighbor's house to the east old has some landscaping and was up for sale again. They changed the siding on it and it looks good.

I continued to the end of Cresston and saw Bramble's old house is condemned or something. A darn fly/wasp bit me and it swelled into a welt and itched. I walked back, then down the beach road, better known as "Shore Road" now. Then walked the paved path behing "Poling's" in the Little Field, then crossed Peninsula Farms Road to walk around the middle schools, then back around the Little Field (Twin Harbors side) to my car. A fly kept dive bombing me.

         Pennsylvania's Appalachian Trail: Monday, 5 September 2005+ (Labor Day).
I parked west of the AT's PA 94 crossing at 2:41 pm. I hiked north over hilly terrain. There were tall rock outcroppings on which the early natives must have created myths--natural Stonehenge-like grey-white boulders. The Trail oft went over these, and twice I thought I had come to my previous terminus at "The Rocks."

A little before 4 pm, I did finally arrive, or so I thought. But I did not remember a cartoon face spray-painted in brown. After surveying the area for the best way to maneuver or bypass the five-foot step up, I came up with a solution that I was not going to test alone wearing shorts and sandals.

I headed back after about ten minutes or so of this, and about ten minutes into my south-bound return, encountered a hiker who I had passed soon after I began. I thought he was disabled or old, as his gait was very slow.

We got to talking, and I warned him what lay ahead and offered my advice. He had a backpack. He seemed very nice--reminded me of a fellow who helped start me in hiking, 'cept the hiker today had a mid-ZZ Top beard.

I returned to my car at 5:06 pm. I knew I would have to hike back on my July 4th section to confirm that I had indeed linked these sections.

About 5 or 6 miles total.

I parked at Whiskey Spring Road and its crossing with the AT. After accidentally hiking up a trail to a new camping area, I got on the AT and headed south at 5:31 pm. Indeed, the face was at my turning back point--forest lighting and shadows just make it more difficult to see facing south. I headed back and got to my car at 6:06 pm.

About one mile total.

I then parked in Boilings Springs Park (near the furnace remains) at 7:04 pm and head north (west) to PA 74. I soon realized how close I was to re-completing this ection on my 4 July hike--oh, say, about 50 yards shy. It was getting dark as I returned. I went to the Getty store and got a flavored water, then headed back to my car at around 8 pm.

About 3 miles total.

TOTAL FOR THE DAY: 9 to 10 miles. It felt like more.

         Pennsylvania's Appalachian Trail: Monday, 12 September 2005+.
After losing the Trail about ½ in north of PA 74, I decided to hike another section. After missing the Trail crossing heading west on PA 641, I found it when I double-backed. I parked off PA 641 on Byer Boyer Road, about ¼ mile from the Trail crossing. At 4:41 pm, I got on the Trail and headed north through small woods and across fields, passed a small, old, overgrown cemetery. I followed the Trail as it uses Appalachian Drive to get over I-76, and touched a blaze mark at about 87 Appalachian Drive, where the Trail again splits off from it.

At 5:35 pm, I began hiking back on this fairly easy section, encountering a leashed beagle puppy and its owner near PA 641. Cute little dog.

I crossed PA 641 at 6:22 pm, and continued south to the Trail's juncture with Byer Boyer Road. I hiked the Trail back to PA 641, then walked 641/Trundle Road to my car on Byer Boyer Road, arriving at 6:49 pm.

There should be a short hike to add this section to my larger accomplishment.

About 6 to 8 miles total.

         Gifford Pinchot State Park: Sunday, 12 March 2006+.
I finally found a place where it was not raining. I walked the Lakeside Trail. It was getting dark early, with thanks from the clouds, so I only walked from the Day Use parking to Boulder Cliffs, then back and to the water fowl types information sign.

2¼ miles total.

         Washington, D.C.: Friday, 24 March 2006+.
After walking about the National Gallery of Art, I ventured outside at 1:06 pm to walk west on The Mall, then south to the Jefferson Memorial, then around the larger section of the Tidal Basin, back eastward on The Mall, to the East Wing of the National Gallery. I arrived back at 2:25 pm.

It had warmed considerably in the afternoon. I wore a short-sleeved shirt with a thin, black sweater over--and a cardigan over that. The wind reminded that it was very early spring. My hunch that the warming waters near the basin might foster a blooming cherry tree was confirmed. I saw two trees totally a-bloom.

But it was a set of shapely legs--I saw the rest of the comely, summertime-clad female jogger momentarily--that reminded me at my first crosswalk wait of the great weather to come.

I somehow kept pace with another comely, summertime-clad female jogger on the way back, eastward across all The Mall. I'd lose her, then she's reappear a little ahead, without my trying. She reminded me of another petite braided woman, come 1982. Perhaps it is spring in my heart. Methinks it usually is.

Discounting my travels inside the Gallery, 6 miles total.

         Cumberland Valley Rail Trail: Sunday, 2 April 2006+.
It was a nice day, one of the first spring days this year. After parking at the Newville, PA trailhead parking lot at 2:10 pm, I mistakingly walked north to PA 233. At about 2:25 pm, I was back and then headed south and reached Ott Road at 3:54 pm. I returned to my car at 5:27 pm. According to the organization's map, I walked six miles each way. This means I averaged a little less than 4 miles per hour on the walk.

After not walking such a distance in a while [see previous entry, half the distance], I gained a blister on my right heel and was sore in places the following day. Naturally, I chose to walk the large section of the Trail surfaced with large, pointy, shale stones.

Oakville sure could use a drink machine! I did not bring water, but I staved off my thirst with two sticks of Big Red gum.

12 miles total.

         Cumberland Valley Rail Trail: Saturday, 8 April 2006+.
I walked from Ott Road south to Duncan Road and back. 1.4 miles each way. After morning rain and dreariness, it cleared off but remained a brisk day with a wind that reinforced that briskness.

2.8 miles total.

         Cresston Park & environs: Sunday, 16 April 2006+.
Killing time until I could visit my new grandnephew, I drove from my brother's to my old neighborhood. I parked beside Twin Oaks Park (in my day, "the Little Field") on Hilltop Road. I wended the paved path on the north side of the Park. I crossed Peninsula Farm Road, went around the Twin Rivers School Complex, both my alma maters, then walked through the middle of the park. I walked down my old block of Cresston Road to the dead end, and back. I walked up Hilltop to my car.

About 2¼ to 2¾ miles total.

         Cumberland Valley Rail Trail: Monday, 24 April 2006+.
At 2:58 pm, I parked at Duncan Road and headed towards Shippensburg (southeast). The trail is good until it crosses Fogelsonger Road. There the Trail descends steeply. Coming southeast, with the gravel and poor steps down, it is a slip risk, though I managed down all right. This is definitely not a bike trail at this juncture. I look forward to the Trail acquiring a new overpass bridge.

I continued to what I thought was the terminus, across Prince Street from Shippensburg University's Visitor Parking Lot. How many times have I missed the Trail sign there?! But now we know the best put-on points: for walking, at Visitors parking; for biking, at the Township Park.

I then walked back to Duncan Road, arriving at my car at 4:59 pm.

The outing was a little cool with a strong breeze, but warmed as I walked. I should have worn something lighter than the heavy sweatshirt under which I wore a short-sleeved polo, but the temperature was inadequate for the polo shirt alone. The sun was shining, and a few others were also taking advantage of the Trail. Wildflowers were abloom.

Later, going online, I realized I still have 0.3 miles of the Trail to do!

3.4 miles each way; 2 hours, 1 minute completion. 6.8 miles total, averaging about 3.37 m.p.h.

         Cumberland Valley Rail Trail: Tuesday, 25 April 2006+.
I parked at Shippensburg University's Visitor Parking Lot, and headed towards downtown. With the resculpting of the landscape, I think I stayed on the old railroad bed. I descended the hill at Fort Street and Earl Street, ascended, and headed back. There: Trail completed! And I walked this with an untied shoe (successfully).

0.3 miles one way; 0.6 miles total.

         The National Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes: Friday Afternoon, 28 April 2006+.
I have oft made this walk since first discovering the place with my friend Cindy in late May 2001. As it is spring, and parallels to that time are now in my life, I thought it'd be a nice break on my way back from Frederick, Maryland.

It was a beautiful day for this little walk. The mountain laurel(?) was in bloom, and the blosoms gave a light, pleasant scent to parts of the stroll.

As a service was in session at the grotto/amphitheater, I turned back before it.

About ¾ of a mile total.

         Annapolis, Maryland: Saturday, 6 May 2006+.
I parked at Gott's Parking lot, off Northwest Street, and headed around the Church Circle, over on School Street, and around State Circle. I stopped in Annapolis Pottery for a cursory look. Prices are up! I went down Cornhill Street, forgetting which two rowhouses my mom grew up in.

I checked Fleet Street for the kite shop--gone, then headed for the Dock's Harbor Square for Black Market Minerals--also gone. I walked about the Maryland Maritime Heritage Festival. I thought I saw someone from my high school, but didn't check for the beauty mark.

I left there via Craig Street and walked up Prince Georges Street to Maryland Avenue, and went in a La Petite Gallerie.

I went back around State, out School, crossed College Avenue to get on the outer part of Church, then walked down West Street, passed Economy Supply and Johnny's Barber Shop. Well, where they once were. Both are now an upcale microbrewery and restaurant.

I walked up Cathedral and turned up Francis Street, took Church Circle to Duke of Gloucestshire, and walked down to First Presbyterian Church. I then crossed at Conduit Street, and walked up Main Street to Church Circle. I went around to Northwest Street and back to Gott Parking Deck.

It was a lovely, warm day.

About 3--4 miles total.

 
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