Did a backpack from Appalachia Gap to Duxbury Rd August 18-19, 2012. The trail was in very good condition the whole 18+ miles. Couple of blowdowns, but none worth mentioning. It rained the afternoon before to the south, but the trail was relatively dry and we walked dead straight through all the muddy spots without any problem. But note, the water supply at the hut below Camel's Hump heading to Duxbury Rd was completely dry. There was ample water farther down.
This is a VERY HARD section of the Long Trail. As One Happy Hiker just noted, there is a lot of up and down, a lot of bare rock that was very slippery, and this section was quite slow going, so give yourself more time than usual if you plan to hike it.
That being said, it is also a very beautiful section, with lots of interesting things to see in the woods, and some nice views at various spots looking back toward Mad River Glen. Camel's Hump is simply a magnificent mountain and we enjoyed clear views for 360 degrees, even quite early when it could have been very foggy down below.
All the best,
Brian
This is a VERY HARD section of the Long Trail. As One Happy Hiker just noted, there is a lot of up and down, a lot of bare rock that was very slippery, and this section was quite slow going, so give yourself more time than usual if you plan to hike it.
That being said, it is also a very beautiful section, with lots of interesting things to see in the woods, and some nice views at various spots looking back toward Mad River Glen. Camel's Hump is simply a magnificent mountain and we enjoyed clear views for 360 degrees, even quite early when it could have been very foggy down below.
All the best,
Brian
