About: Alan Carpenter

I didn’t want to risk falling or having to be rescued. Having experienced this type of situation before, I reluctantly turned around and began my descent to the campground as clouds scudded by and the rain continued (see photo).

I rock hopped across the Lower Fork of Nesowadnehunk Stream, and then another stream. Happily, I kept my feet dry. The trail turned uphill and passed Big Niagara Falls- which wasn’t that big (see photo). I slowly gained elevation, passing Daicy and Grassy Ponds.

The day started with a level trail for 2 miles, followed by a 300-foot climb-then a descent to the Potaywadjo Lean-to where I met 4 day hikers. The trail stayed flat for the next 7 miles but with lots of roots and rocks. Can you find the trail in the photo? It’s in the middle.

After descending for two miles, something marvelous happened: The trail improved dramatically. Instead of roots and rocks, the tread was smooth and duffy (see photo). I wondered if I had taken another trail, but the white blazes showed I was on the AT. I dined on peanut butter for lunch at Cooped Brook then continued gradually downhill to Cooper Brook Lean-to.