We've stepped into September and our final 2 weeks on trail. Only 200 miles to go. Crossed over more Maine high peaks, Spaulding and Sugarloaf. Been trying to cross paths with Tacocat again and packed out Jim Beam to give to him. After being unsuccessful and it's adding weight, "It's Always Sunny in the Gully", decided to indulge in the Beam at Crocker Cirque campsite with Darwin. The next day, we crossed 2000 miles and celebrated atop of North Crocker mountain resulting in a summit vortex. Splash and I jammed to 2000's music on our descend to town where we received Whoopie Pie trail magic, a Maine staple dessert, from the mayor. Jen and Jenn picked us up in their short hiker bus and brought us back to the Maine Roadhouse, one of my top 3 hostels. Spent time exploring the town of Stratton and geocaching. Soaking up the final moments of this amazing lifestyle. Took an expected unexpected zero day with Mountain Doctor on a blue sky day. The next push was wet, rainy, cold and foggy. Conquered the Bigelows and around a fun bubble of hikers including The Waffle House, Swagman, Tacocat, Mountain Doctor, Darwin, Fudge Stripe, The Glue and, of course, Splash and Sunny.
We crossed the Kennebec River in the canoe ferry and detoured to eat pizza. The morning was sunny as we climbed Moxie Bald Mountain and found Tacocat. Darwin handed me sardines to try for the first time. Forded many small streams before reaching the highway to go to Shaw's Hiker Hostel. Another one of my top 3 hostels. The jam sessions lately have been the absolute best. Everyone is so talented. Spent our final zero at our final hostel before entering the 100 Mile Wilderness. Ate the famous pancake breakfast, explored the town of Monson, went on a paddle board, ate dinner at the Lake House and pub but took forever. The full moon shined bright as we enjoyed reminiscing around the fire and felt super nostalgic and grateful of this journey. The final 10 days are upon us!