It took a while to get into shape. I had trained for this by going to the gym, and working on things like the stair master, but there's no comparison with the real thing. Even on the highest level on the machines, you might work out for an hour. I'll send pictures . It's beautiful stuff.
Maine is one of the most beautiful states.
I've been hiking with some other people. I met them in Monson. They have cute trail names. The four of us have been hiking together. It's good to have some company in this difficult terrain.