Day #27, A marathon to Mizpah--miles hiked: 18.6

Since we didn't make it to our intended campsite yesterday, we had some major catching up to do today...thus I was walking into the sunrise before 6 am.

By 8, we had made up the lost miles and rolled into Zealand Falls Hut just in time to do a little sweeping for a lot of leftovers.

We passed through a rock fall on the way to Crawford Notch that actually closely resembles the trail at some points.

When we got into the notch, we passed what we thought was a robbery, but upon closer examination, we decided it was a bear that tore into this poor tent site caretaker's car...in other words, it appears that the bear peeled the window seal back and only took what a bear wants: food.

After a very difficult climb out of the notch, the trail went over about 7 ledges with awesome views!

After a full 12 hours of walking, we made it to Mizpah Hut where we secured a work-for-stay for the night. We fell asleep to the sound of pouring rain and thunder...thank goodness it held off while we were on the ridge (this time, at least). Tomorrow we head over Mt. Washington and the famous Presidential Range. Happy trails!