July 24, 2004

My hike today after a four day hiatus was great.  I was eager to resume my place in the woods, hiking the A.T.  I ascended Bear Mountain which is one of the highest points on the A.T. in New York.  At 1,350 feet, Bear Mountain offers views of the Hudson River Valley and the New York City skyline.  I climbed the mountain off the trail because I missed the white blazes which was frustrating and much more difficult.  But...I was lucky because I eventually did get back on the trail near the top.  I could have been completely lost.  Hiking down Bear Mountain caused my feet and knees to ache.  Bear and I had dinner at Bear Mountain Inn and enjoyed a casual walk along Hessian Lake.  I am happy to be back in the woods hiking my hike.