Day 3 – Slackpacking Maine – AT Hike #13
Day 3 – Appalachian Trail – Nahmakanta Lake to Pollywog Stream – 8.6 miles with 1,522′ gain and 673′ loss with 2 Water Crossings
When we turned into Jo Mary’s, the bear assassins were back at the gate. Today’s bait, strawberry sprinkles and marshmallows. The anticipation of Team Debbie was tangible, eager for a glimpse into the day’s culinary adventures.
The trailhead welcomed us with open arms, Karen and Danya leading the way, with the serene Nahmakanta Lake gracing our journey. A slight drop in humidity and the sporadic lake breeze were nature’s small mercies. Amidst the chatter, I found solace in silence, absorbing the myriad conversations around me.
My mind often drifted to the local livelihoods, the ‘what ifs’ of a life in Millinocket. Would I be part of the bear baiting ritual? What if my parents owned the Bear Bait Company and I was the little girl in the pickup truck loading the Poptarts, dumping the buckets of bait into the barrels, stalking the camera’s in the woods, helping trap the bears, or skinning the bears (never ever ever). Or, would I be working at Jo Mary’s at the entrance gate, or the general store?
Knowing my mom, if I were born in a small town like Millinocket, I’m betting she would have been an amazing Appalachian Trail Guide or Park Ranger, imparting her deep knowledge and love for the outdoors. I can’t imagine her skinning bears. Everyone in Northern Maine would have definitely known Nona. I can’t help but wonder what her trail name would have been… Then I think of being so far from urban conveniences (1 1/2 from Target, Trader Joe’s, a movie theatre). Yet, there’s an undeniable allure to the simplicity and intimacy with nature that only a small town can offer.
Today was another treasure trove of experiences, from the rocky, rooty, (yes, I made that word up) climbs to the absence of menacing bog boards. The laughter was abundant, and the encounters with a few thru-hikers, mere days from their victorious ascent of Katahdin, were awe-inspiring. Their journey since February stands as a testament to amazing endurance and determination, and I am so jealous.
As dusk fell, the hostel welcomed us back with the promise of a hearty dinner (and yes, it was amazing. AGC guides are chef’s too) and the task of preparing for tomorrow’s early start with the 17.2-mile journey that lies ahead.
And as for the day’s final twist, a note to Trader Joe’s might be in order: a warning label on the Tea Tree Body Wash could spare others the fiery conclusion to an otherwise perfect day.
