Day 13 (July 7th)

I started today off in Vermont and ended 15 miles later, crossing the beautiful Connecticut River into Hanover, New Hampshire. I'd say my favorite state so

far has been Vermont with the possible exception of Massachusetts. But New Hampshire looks promising. Hanover is quite a town -- an elitist air, but friendly people. Lots of bustle with Dartmouth College, one of the Ivy League schools. Prior to crossing over, I came through Norwich, Vermont. The first two houses after coming out of the woods had trail magic for thru-hikers. Cokes on ice and cookies, toothpaste, and gummy bears. What's more phenomenal: thru-hiking the AT or people generating trail magic? Toss up, but I'll be passing the magic on for sure. Started raining as I left Hanover about 1:30. Walked another five miles, and then hid my pack by a paved road and walked .8 miles to the Etna, NH General Store. Bought a huge sandwich and a 32 oz Fosters. A guy gave me a ride back to the trail head. He was delivering eggs to the store for resale. He also raises bees. After the sandwich and Fosters, I called it a day. The big New Hampshire mountains are ahead. Take care.