Hancock Notch and Sawyer River

Submitted by Nancy

Stats
Date: June 21, 2019
Miles: 9.46
Elevation Gain: 755
Trails: Hancock Notch and Sawyer River Trails

Pat and I got some redlining in yesterday on the Hancock Notch and Sawyer River Trails. It was a fabulous day! But I’m not sure why… It was not because of the scattered rain, clouds and mist that enveloped us much of the day. Nor was it because of the myriad water crossings, some with lots of fast moving water that required we fight the current and walk through in our boots. I am sure it was not because of all the water that literally was the Hancock Notch Trail. And I’m absolutely sure that it was not because of the mosquitoes — especially on the Sawyer River Trail where we were walking in between swamps and the mosquitoes had not seen a living soul in many days (because no one would be stupid enough to be there) so they were hungry and we were their first meal in many days and they attacked us in swarms. We could not talk, think or look around; we could do nothing but walk as fast as possible. So why was the day fabulous? We were hiking, together, facing the obstacles and elements like champs. It doesn’t get any better than that!