Hump Day!

I had previously researched which trail would the easiest to hike on Camel’s Hump, because I knew that we would have hiked Mount Mansfield the day before and would be tired. I discovered that an out-and-back hike along the Burrows Trail was the path we wanted for Sunday, July 31st. 

When we gassed up our vehicles the morning after we hiked Mount Mansfield, the cashier, who was a local, suggested that we hike Camel’s Hump counterclockwise and that we would see a lot of hikers take this route. Upon hearing this, I assumed that this route, and not the Burrows Trail, would be the easiest route, particularly if it’s popular. We, therefore, decided to change our original plan and hike the Forest City Trail to the Long Trail to the Summit and then descend  via the Burrow Trail. Big mistake.

We encountered extremely challenging terrain. The south side of the summit is extremely steep open rock which, at times, required the use of both hands. Somehow, somehow, I reached the top of the mountain with my hiking partner. It was a beautiful, clear day and there were views in all directions.

Going down the Burrows Trail to the parking lot was much easier. Nonetheless, I would have to say that this was my most difficult climb ever.

Five down, one more to go