On Monday I joined a group of hikers for what has become an annual hike along a 10 mile section of the Appalachian trail in Vermont. When I arrived at the meeting location I was meet by other hikers who were already nude, as I exited my vehicle similarly attired having driven to the meet up nude. As I reacquainted myself with some of the hikers that I had met previously. others arrived. When the time came to carpool to the starting location 10 miles north our total number for the hike was 19, plus one dog. The ages of the group ranged from 10 months to 70 plus. At the start of the hike southbound we descended from the parking lot, through a small area of trees and then across Route 140 and up the trail. The first two miles of the hike are a steady incline, until leveling out at a field of cairns. At this point several of the group took a side trail west to an overlook with a scenic view to the west. The rest of us. took this time to rehydrate and relax for a few minutes. When the rest of the group returned we soon continued our journey south along the trail. About a mile south of our first stop we stopped at another cairn field for lunch. After energizing our selves, one of the group headed back north to the starting location due to another commitment. As the 18 of us stretched out along the trail we wound our way along the trail headed south to our next stop at Little Rock pond where most of the group enjoyed themselves with a refreshing skinny dip. After some sun and additional snacks and drinks we headed out to the original meeting spot. Along the way we encountered several Northbound hikers all who greeted us with positive reactions. With the temps on the 80s and sunshine all day what better way to enjoy the day hiking with a group of friendly similarly inspired friends.
