Day 113 - 22nd July - Fingerboard Shelter to Fort Mongomery - 14.1 miles

We had a great night with all five of us being 'mature' hikers. The rain pounded on the roof and we felt warm and cozy. This is the day for the great skyline view of the Manhatten skyline 35 miles away - it looks like Fantasia - pale blue silhouette on the horizon.

We all meet up again for lunch on a stream and later in the afternoon we climb Bear Mountain, one of the legendary climbs on the AT. There is at least 3/4 mile walking on the road, and we climb over the top to be confronted with an old stone tower known as the observatory.

It is the descent off Bear Mountain which is special - a path of stones cut by volunteers. It is an amazing job. Stickwalker puts 'booties' on Belle the Wonderdog as the small stones are very sharp, and the booties protect her paw pads. She looks sooo cute. We descend to the lake and find the kiosk. Sourdough and Sweet Tea are already there, wondering if they should order for us, as it is about to close. We order Hot Dogs and fries and a large bottle of lemonade. We eat and relax for half an hour. Sourdough and Sweet Tea decide to continue for another 6 miles to the monastery where hikers can camp for free. With blisters and very heavy pack I think this is a bad move for Sweet Tea, but I am not her mother. My concerns prove right - she drops out the next day, and we never hear from her, or about her again.

We head into Fort Mongomery with Stickwalker and Belle, and stay at Garrison House, a B&B which does not supply breakfast. Our resupply is done at the petrol station which is fairly limited.