Sunny 46

  Everyone woke up around 5 at the lean-to. The two fellas went out to do Cliff & Redfield and the lady, who had already done them a few years ago, decided that she didn't need to do them again. Instead, she'd stay behind, pack up camp, and make breakfast. I don't blame her; I'd have done the same!  Despite having to wake up and add layers shortly after bed time, I felt well-rested. Sunny ate his breakfast with a little ramen and broth in it. I was glad. Often, right before a hike, Sunny is too excited to eat at first and I have to re-pack it for later. He was hungry this morning, though. Back Down Marcy Trail After a visit to the thunderbox and packing up my own camp, Sunny and I were on our way. Our start was a bit later than I'd hoped, but I knew we had many hours of daylight ahead of us and I didn't want to rush with a lot of anxiety or nervous energy.  We were both in good spirits with the night's sleep and the sun shining. We met several friendly f...

  My original plan for this late June hike was to come in from the Loj, camp at Uphill lean-to, and bag Cliff & Redfield. Then, I got to thinking that it would be a bit silly to waste all that elevation gain. We'd be within striking distance of Marcy, Gray, and Skylight, and we'd be able to climb Marshall on our way out.  I started calling this "The 2d3 Mountains Hike" because we definitely wouldn't be leaving Cliff or Redfield unhiked, but I was also not going to guarantee we could get all six mountains depending on how we were feeling or the weather. Folks recommended hiking in via Upper Works instead. It was only a difference of about half a mile and I kind of wanted to hike through Avalanche Pass. Then I wondered if I'd ever have an opportunity to hike the Clamity Brook Trail again, so I decided to go that way instead. After hiking the trail, I admit there's lots more to the area than just hiking mountains and I can say I may be on this trail again...