September 5, 2010
It is a big day for anyone who climbs Mount Katahdin, but a much bigger day for an Appalachian Trail thru hiker. Most who climb the mountain start their adventure by driving to the base of the mountain. But there are a select few who decide to walk to the base of the mountain. From where? Springer Mountain, Georgia nearly 2,200 miles away. Today was a special day. One of my friends, Mary Ellen a.k.a MEB a.k.a Jibitz was completing the Appalachian Trail.
Dave gave Jeremy and me a ride over to Katahdin Stream. Because we were camping on the other side of the mountain it made more sense for the two of us to do a traverse. We met MEB and the group at the trailhead. Our group of 10 was ready to go. Just 5.2 more miles MEB.
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MEB signed us in.
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A little over a mile in, we went by Katahdin Stream Falls, the last waterfall on the A.T. (or the first if you are heading south)
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After a steep climb, we were above treeline.
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Darlene, one of MEB's many friends.
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Looking over to the Owl.
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Lots of scrambling
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Heading up to the Gateway
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Just 2 miles to go, a mere 1/1000th of the trail.
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We reached the Gateway. It was not the summit but the summit was now in sight just over a mile away.
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Just a few feet to go. (Photo courtesy of Jeremy Clark)
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For a video clip of her amazing finish click here.
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I missed who. But someone in our group had mailed away for an A.T. completion patch for MEB.
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The moment all northbound hikers dream of, standing by (or in this case on) the Katahdin summit sign.
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MEB takes a break on the sign, 2180 miles from where she started.
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To get here, she hiked through 14 states, 8 national forests, 2 national parks, and dozens of state parks. It took her approximately 5 million steps as she walked by 165,000 white blazes. She began on April 2nd and ended on September 5th, 3 pairs of boots and six pole tips later. Only 20% of those who attempt a thru hike finish. But those of us who know MEB never had any doubt that she would do it. This gal from Maine has grit and determination.
Gary Tompkins met our group of 10 at the top and took our picture.
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After a long break on the summit, Jeremy and I said good-bye to MEB and the group. We would be heading across the Knife Edge.
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First we had to hike over to South Peak.
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This was Jeremy's first time "on the edge"
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Watch that step!
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Looking over to Hamlin.
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Climbing up to Pamola Peak.
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As we headed down the Helon Taylor Trail, we got to enjoy a gorgeous rainbow.
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Once below treeline, it seemed like for ever, but we finally reached Roaring Brook. What a great day! MEB, congratulations again on your amazing finish!
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