August 3 Mile 1362

Today continued our slack packing by my Sweety that will go on through August 8. Today was a very unusual start, as we got to hike on boardwalks for a mile or so across a marshy, flat area. Very nice and very unusual. Then we climbed Wawayanda Mtn, about a 900 ft climb-all of us very glad we got to slack pack. The trail in the morning brought us back and forth across the NY and NJ border. Finally got into NY state-rarely do we see a official sign telling us we are in a new state-don't know why? Didn't see one here. The trail brought us to the top of Prospect Rock, where you can look down on Greenwood Lake-a lake full of summer homes and boaters. I was very exhausted and hot climbing over all the rocks and I could hear and see the boats on the lake down below, with folks relaxing. I imagined them sitting on their decks and docks with glasses of wine enjoying the good life, but quickly dispelled the image from my mind. Can't do that out here! Finally hiked down to the road to Bellvale, NY Highway NY 17A. And lo and behold, there is a creamery there-a NY version of an ice cream place near a real dairy. My Sweety took us there after a long hiking day-about 18+ miles and on a ridge with a beautiful view of the valley below and sunset we ate fresh ice cream-Yummy!
Then on to our sleeping accommodations for the night-a primitive, rustic cabin by Lake Sebago-no AC and very warm. But a pretty spot. And a far drive from the trail-but who cares when you have a car.
A place to shower and rest before another day.