Hiking the Appalachian Trail through Connecticut

The first thing I noticed about Connecticut were the signs… they were the prettiest shade of bright sage green. Surprisingly refreshing after hundreds of miles of brown signage. When you do nothing but hike all day every day, it’s the little things that count!

As we continued our SOBO trek down the Appalachian Trail, crossing into our 5th state, Conneticut proved to be interesting in it’s own way.

The high points weren’t as dramatic as Maine and New Hampshire, but they were still rewarding with expansive views. This was the top of Bear Mountain (a memorable name we will encounter again in New York). The peak culminated with the pile of rocks you see above, affording a slightly better view of the valley below. After a quick snack break at the top, we continued along the ridge with beautiful views, until reaching camp. A camp that didn’t apparently make a big impact because I didn’t take any pictures there.

Peaks in this state are nothing compared to the majestic mountains further north, but they did provide a peaceful feeling of respite, beauty and accomplishment. Not to mention really interesting trees.

But what the state lacks in geographical drama, they make up for in the varied and interesting AT signs.

This sign was great for a multitude of reasons - the cuteness factor was only beat by the fact that the trail was wheelchair accessible.

Similar to Vermont and Massachusetts, nature on the AT often intersects with civilization here. The trail meanders along streets and bridges and towns as well as through forests and mountains and farms. Oh, and cemeteries, both old and new.

This little ladder amused me after the tumultuous terrain we had already crossed. Always nice to have a little help, but it was probably more trouble than it was worth in this instance.

Below - hands down the best fungi find on the trail. The colors and flowery overlapping blooms captivated me for quite some time. I couldn’t stop looking at this log, and the more I did the more beautiful it became.

One of my favorite days was also the longest. I clocked in 20 miles, a personal record at this point. I hung out with the Giant’s Thumb (a huge rock formation protruding from the ground), ate lunch in the most beautiful sunny open field with a view of gorgeous trees and mountains beyond, crossed streets and bridges, and an ancient brick wall and tree. I got to camp just before sunset, where Ken had already set up the tent (his superman pace got him there 1.5 hours before me). Lucky me though, just in time for dinner!

I really couldn’t get enough of this sun drenched, relaxing field. From the trees to the mountainscape beyond, I lingered long after lunch soaking it in.

Walking by this amazing 1850 rock wall flanked with an even more amazing giant oak tree stopped me in my tracks. Everything about the pair was elaborately stunning. It was a close second to the field above for my favorite spot on the AT in Connecticut.

On occasion fellow hikers leave their own signs of accomplishment we all enjoy sharing. If it weren’t for these simple sticks, I wouldn’t have realized I just walked 700 miles. Definitely called for a little celebratory shout.

And the walk just keeps going and going and going. Mountains and rivers and tunnels and bridges and massive open skies make every day different and interesting.

And of course, it wouldn’t be the Appalachian Trail without rocks! Not nearly as rigorous as prior states, but still some bouts of rocklandia to keep us on our toes.

As mentioned above, the trail passes by more and more civilization as we head south. One of the perks were the fun farm animals we encountered. The cows were especially adorable.

Did I mention the signs??! This was hands down my favorite sign of them all. Plus it led to a box pit toilet with an open view of the forest beyond, just tree covered enough from anyone walking up to avoid embarrassment.

I mean seriously, how long has this sign been embedded in the tree? How long has the tree been feeling this splinter? Does the tree find it annoying or think of it as a friendly hug? I have so many questions.

And since we’re talking signs. and privies… Connecticut had some fun with their directions.

I’ll leave Connecticut with this… the trail that never ends.

Well, at least until New York, which is coming up hot on our heels. or toes rather…