Day 2 Update

So I saw one group today and heard from another. I thought I would give you an update on how those groups are doing as well as speculate about the others. In general I'm referring to the groups by trail name so if you're wondering what group your child is in please see the group list.

I touched base with the Kinsman Notch group today. They had just come across Mt. Moosilauke and reported driving snow and high winds. They were already down in the valley by 3:30pm though and into an early camp at a nice shelter. I helped assess a student with an ankle strain and after consulting with the student's parent and the athletic trainer here at NHS we agreed the student could remain in the field.

I snapped this picture of Owl's Head right after leaving the group. It gives you a sense of how green and wet everything is right now.

The Zealand group called in a few hours ago to report a change in route due to snow. They said they were 'cold and wet' but had started supper and were glad to have redirected their route away from the higher peaks for the moment.

Gilman's Corner had a nice rolling hills kind of a day, they are camping off trail tonight near the lovely Wachipuka Pond. They will be heading over Moosilauke soon so hopefully the weather is better for them than it was for the Kinsman Notch group.

Reel Brook must have had an exciting day today as well as they crossed the Kinsman Ridge, probably in some snow. Tonight they are bedded down at my favorite spot in the White Mountains - a high mountain pond with a dramatic peak rising up from its shores.

Lincoln Woods crossed Flume today, a dramatic peak with great views that was probably socked in with clouds. They are at the coldest camp of their route at Liberty Springs tent platform. They are now on the Appalachian Trail - if we don't pick up their group on Thursday they will be able to keep hiking all the way to Springer Mountain, Georgia!

Mayhew was on the island today, getting settled in and practicing canoe skills for their overnight canoe trip the day after tomorrow.

Gordon Pond had a moderate day today, short on miles but steep as they ascended to the Beaver Brook tent platform. Tomorrow they will cross Moosilauke.

Wilderness Trail - I haven't heard from so I'm thinking they are cozied up next to the Bondcliffs and are hoping tomorrow to cross that awesome ridge.

That's what I know so far or can reasonably guess. I was talking to the mother of one student today and expressed the idea that because we have instant communication from anywhere on the trail (with our sat-phones) if we don't hear anything that's actually really good news.