Georgia to Maine - - Please join me from start (4/1) to finish (8/10) - 132 days!!!!!

Bethlehem, NH
I have completed my thru-hike of the AT from Georgia to Maine; I started 4/1 and completed 8/10/10. I decided to do this thru-hike in memory of my brother Michael and in turn decided to turn it into a fundraiser. All money raised went to the Adaptive Sports Partners of the North Country which gives year-round opportunities in sports and recreation to people with physical or developmental disabilities. My wife Pam and I got involved with this program because it allows us to help people with disabilities enjoy the outdoors like we do and my brother Michael did. Michael was born mentally challenged, and he loved to visit us in the North Country of NH and go hiking. He also loved the outdoors and did many other sports. So, to help others do this and other outdoor activities is a TRIBUTE to him, and an HONOR to us. Many of you have helped me along my journey and donated (follow donation link) directly to a secure website. All donations have gone and WILL CONTINUE to go to ASPNC – nonprofit org to help assist others to hike, ski, kayak, snow shoe..etc… Thank you all in advance for your kindness & generosity, Dave & Pam Smith

Monday, August 2, 2010

Friday 7/30

Today was another beautiful weather day for hiking. PTD got to ford Orberton Stream and also the Carrabassett River. They both were low enough to cross. He did go over Lone Mnt (3,260), Spaulding Mnt (4,000), South Crocker (4,040) and North Crocker (4,228). Says he had really great views from all.

Just on the other side of Spaulding Mnt he reached the 200 mile marker. That means he has only 200 miles left of his journey. This made him feel excited as he is almost completed his goal of thru-hiking the AT(which many do not complete – odds are about 1 in 5 that start.. finish) and he is kind of sad that it is coming to an end. The last few weeks of the trip will be an emotional roller coaster as he prepares himself to leave trail life and for re entry into reality. Now is the time where he is starting to reflect back on his long journey. Says he wouldn’t change a thing. Everything that happened to him along the way was for a reason.

He reached Stratton, Maine. He wasn’t due here till 8/17. Here it is 7/30 and he is already there. Ahead of schedule! He is just flying.

He stayed at the Stratton Motel/Hostel owned by Susan Smith (no relation but same name as his sister). What a deal! $20 got him a bed, shower, laundry, use of the kitchen and a free shuttle back to the trail head. Amazing! He also got his 2nd to last mail drop here.

He went to one of the local restaurants that night for a fish fry. AYCE to boot! Says it was delicious.

21.5 miles today

South Branch Carrabassett River at the AT crossing - See the white blaze on the rock
Posted by Dave Smith (Smitty) at 8/02/2010

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