I usually skip breakfast, but today was different. After a restful night's sleep at the cozy Libby Hostel, we embarked on our hiking adventure, eager to conquer the trail. Our first stop was a delightful cafe, offering a hearty breakfast with fresh veggies and a steaming cup of coffee. It was a welcome treat, especially since my hiking buddy, Always, is a vegan. We refueled and prepared for the upcoming trail stretch, leaving our packs at the hostel.
As we ventured into the wilderness, a kind stranger, Claudia, offered us a ride to the trailhead. Her rescue dog, a sad-eyed Golden Retriever, accompanied us. Claudia shared her trail angel story, but her off-putting behavior and vague tales raised some red flags. Nonetheless, we thanked her and bid farewell, brushing off the dog fur from our clothes.
The trail began with a serene walk alongside Nineteen Mile Brook, its sparkling waters inviting us for a refreshing dip. We shed our shoes and socks, diving into the cool water, a moment of bliss before the challenging climb ahead. The trail soon became a rugged ascent, and we reached Carter Notch Hut, the last of its kind in the Whites. A hearty bean soup and a slice of bread fueled our energy.
The most memorable part of the day was our descent from North Carter Mountain. The all-fours climb down was thrilling, and Always skillfully navigated the treacherous terrain. We reached Imp Shelter, where Always claimed the last platform, leaving me to camp alone. Despite the solitude, I made a cozy dinner and shared book recommendations with the caretaker.
As night fell, I bid farewell to Always and set up camp on the platform next to him. We exchanged titles, with Always favoring non-fiction, and I suggested fiction classics like McCarthy and Stegner. The night sky, illuminated by the wind-moved branches, provided a perfect backdrop for our literary exchange.
The next morning, I awoke to find Always packing up, having skipped breakfast as usual. I made oatmeal and bid him farewell, knowing our paths would cross again. A few days later, in Maine, we reconnected, sharing photos and memories of our hiking journey. It was a challenging yet rewarding experience, and I looked forward to our next adventure together.
