Two Days, Two Hikes

We finally bit the bullet and booked a trip to Argentina, an idea we've been tossing around for years but always hesitated to make happen. Along with stops in other parts of the country, we're spending a week in Southern Patagonia where vistas and natural delights are pretty much the main event. But to get the most out of it, we want to hike a bit. So we're "in training." I guess mostly I should say I'm in training. Simon's trained. In hopes of being a bit more prepared, on Saturday we hiked up Mount Major about 45 minutes away in Alton, NH. 

There were various ways up the mountain and after some reading we opted to ascend via the Southern Loop Trail, described as "moderately difficult" then take the easier trek down, partly because descents always seem to be trickier for my weak knee. This route would cover 5 miles and an elevation change of about 1,130 feet. This 1,130 foot ascent took place in the first 1.5 miles so it was a condensed (and intense!) period of steep climbing. There were some tricky sections, one where both the dog and I required a boost from Simon, but all in all it was manageable and so incredibly worth the huffing, puffing, and sweating. Outstanding views out over Winnepesaukee and the surrounds. Unreal.

On the way home, I mentioned to Simon how much I enjoyed the hike and how, in the research to find Mount Major, I had also come across a shorter trek near Province Lake, about 15 minutes from Round Pond. He took the hint and we decided to give that one a try on Sunday. While it was much shorter (1.8 miles total) it still covered about 700 feet in elevation change so was another endurance and climbing test. The trail was much narrower but also had some really lovely sections that wound through the forest and some soft pine needle parts of the trail that made for easier walking. And again, beautiful views from the summit, this time of the smaller Province Lake with the Ossipee Mountains in the distance.

All in all, it was reassuring to take these walks. I think with some more practice and some general work to build up endurance and strength, we'll be in good shape. Well, maybe just okay shape. Let's not look for a miracle here.