🧵 1/5
September 15, 1983: When I finally attained that summit, I checked my watch and discovered that it was almost 9:00. I had consumed two hours in hiking two-and-a-half miles. At the rate I had been covering ground the past couple of days, Katahdin was beginning to once more achieve the status of fairy tale.
#backpacking #hiking #outdoors #landscapephotography #Maine #nature #forest #mountains #adventure #trails #AppalachianTrail
3/5
It was a grueling climb coming so soon after that initial ascent to the ridge, but worthwhile in every respect. All the way up, I had outstanding views of the west peak, with Grafton Notch and Old Speck in the background.
4/5
From the rocky, alpine summit, there was a panorama which included a large portion of the Mahoosuc Range. In many respects, Baldpate’s long ridge crest was like an instant replay of the Mahoosucs. The ridge remained open for more than an additional half-mile,
5/5
as I descended sharply over rocks into a steep little gap and ascended the small, rocky crag of Little Baldpate, which had excellent views north across a deep valley towards Wyman Mountain, Hall Mountain, and their surrounding foothills. Shortly after crossing that summit, the Appalachian Trail finally dropped below tree line at the beginning of another long, steep descent.
More of My 1983 #AppalachianTrail Hike in Photos at https://www.georgesteffanos.com/places-i-ve-been
2/5
On the upside, nice views northward across the crest towards the main summit encouraged me a bit. A stiff wind was blowing up there to augment the cold. I did not linger long.
Another steep trail dropped from the west peak down into a sag. The crest was partially open to views and covered with stunted conifers and some alpine vegetation. After a brief leveling-off, the Appalachian Trail scaled the steep stone wall of the south face of Baldpate’s main summit.