Let's Continue Hiking the AT in CT: Bull's Bridge to Macedonia Road Kent

Hello from Jackie!

Let's continue hiking the AT in CT - we will have tackled section 1 and now we will be doing section 2. This hike is going to be longer than the first -- approximately 7.3 miles so please be prepared!

Bull's Bridge to Macedonia Road, South Kent is the second hike along the Appalachian Trail in Connecticut. According to CTVISIT

"7.3 miles, 1900 ft of elevation

A big chunk of the incline on this hike is right in the beginning. We will have a nice view right after the initial climb. We will reach the top of Schaghtichoke Mountain which offers sweeping southeast views. We will now stay up at this elevation for the most part walking along with minor dips here and there, a stream crossing, and a tent site. The descent to the road is a little steep but you’ll be glad to see your car and complete this second leg of the journey."

This is going to be a one-way hike, from south to north. We will meet initially at the endpoint, Macedonia Road in Kent, and take a few cars down to the starting point.

Please make sure you allocate enough time as I anticipate this hike taking a good portion of the day.

For those interested we can grab a bite to eat afterwards.

Remember that this group's pace will be set by our slowest hiker (which will probably be me) however, my dog Lucy always has a different plan. She needs to be in the lead. Don't let that intimidate you, our goal is to get out in nature (forest bath), build our confidence, increase our fitness, and make new connections.

The group will meet at 8:30 a.m. sharp. We will plan to head out no later than 8:40 am.

Location: This will be our starting point: Macedonia Road, South Kent

• What to Bring:

A former colleague once said to me, "Jackie, there is no such thing as bad weather, there is only inappropriate clothing." You know they were right. So please make sure that you are dressed appropriately for this activity and the weather. Here are some things you should bring:

Recommended Gear below: https://sectionhiker.com/sectionhiker-gear-guide/recommended-winter-hiking-gear-list/

• Footwear
• Microspikes (depending on weather and temps)
• Insulated hiking boots
• Warm socks (sock liners optional)
• Gloves
• High gaiters
• Hats
• Extra pair of socks
• Water Bottles
• Whistle
• Personal first aid kit
• Small knife or multi-tool
• Gear repair supplies
• High energy snacks
• Sunglasses and sunscreen
• Toilet paper

COVID Guidelines
Please make sure that you bring a mask. We do not need to wear them outside however it is always a good practice to have one on us just in case.

Pets
Please feel free to bring your dogs as long as they are friendly, are on a leash and you take full responsibility for them. I will likely bring Lucy, who is friendly and a joy! She usually leads the pack.

Most Importantly
Please bring your good energy and positive attitude. I am confident that we all work hard and need time to decompress and forest bath. I have always had just one rule when either running or hiking. My one rule is "no complaining until I am done". Once I finish I can B** and complain all I want! And here is the greatest thing, I am usually so glad to be done that there is nothing to complain about! So if you could adopt that same rule that would be FabUlous!!