Date: 2005-09-05
From: Telephone Pioneers Shelter

To: NJ
Miles today: 70.0

I haven't been keeping up with my journal that much since I got into New York. But to be honest, I haven't enjoyed my hike in New York. I'll give you a brief summary of the trail this week.Sunday:I went to re-supply at a store 2 miles from the trail. I tried to hitch for about 30 minutes with no luck and started walking. The store, which Wingfoot says is open 7 days, was closed. I did get a good sandwich at the deli next door though. I bought my groceries at the Shell station. Didn't get a hitch back to the trail either, unbelievable. Stayed at RPH shelter, it was nice but the water from the pump was brown and tasted like metal. I started to dislike New York.Monday-Labor DayI can't really complain at all about Labor Day, I had a blast. I only hiked about 7 miles and stopped by Fahnestock campground. I was with Moose Tracks, Maty P, and Gobo. The concession stand was closing for the season so we got hooked up. They sold us 10 frozen burgers with buns, condiments and everything for 5 bucks. They also let us stay for free at the campground. Maty P met some people at another campsite and they brought us back a case of beer. We cooked our burgers and drank cold beer and I slept like a baby. I thought New York might not be too bad.TuesdayPut in 19 miles to get to the Fort Montgomery Post Office before 5:30, it was a long day. I got a lot of good food from my Mom, but it weighs so much. I went over Bear Mountain Bridge which goes over the Hudson River, that was cool. The trail goes through a zoo and it was closed so I camped in the woods near someone's house. I started having my doubts with New York.WednesdayI awoke to a deer standing right next to me. When I moved she jumped back but just stood there staring at me. Then she started stamping her hooves down and snorting at me. I was still in my sleeping bag not knowing what was going on. I thought she was gonna charge me but she ran away. I left about 8 and got over to the zoo and learned it doesn't open until 10. I waited around for a while and finally went in. It was a nice little zoo with some cool birds and animals. The lowest elevation on the whole trail is right in front of the bear exhibit. I filled up my water there because the trail was dry and it literally tasted like dirt. I hiked up Bear Mtn and it was hot with okay views. West Mountain was where I stopped hiking, I cowboy camped on a vista. I wanted to make dinner but didn't have enough water. I caught a beautiful sunset before bed. I began to like New York less.ThursdayIncredibly hot with very minimal water. I got pretty de-hydrated today. Was only able to hike about 10 miles before giving up. The only water I got was leaking from a pipe on a water tower. It's like hiking in a desert out here. I don't like New York.Friday-TodayI hiked 11 miles today. I was forced to go 2 miles to a rest stop to get water. Then I had to hike 7 miles carrying 13 lbs of water in my pack. Not exactly my idea of a good time. I am cowboy camping on a big rock on top of Mombasha High Point. I watched a decent sunset and now I type. Tomorrow I will be in New Jersey and out of this dried up state. I'm done with New York.Total Mileage:70