Another Pre-AT Hike-A Lot of Miles Squeezed into a Small Space

Last week Mallory, the kids, and I went for about 5 miles on the bike path in Veterans Memorial Park (Grayson rode his bike, Harper in the wagon, and me with my backpack). Just across the road, bordering the Calverton Cemetery, is the Calverton Pine Barren State Forest. Once again, it is more of a Mountain Bike trail, but it works for hiking. Kyle dropped me off again (he was working from home today). 

According to All Trails, this was a 7.2 mile trail crammed into a rather tight space. 

As you can see, I covered nearly every bit (and it was 8.4 miles, not 7.2). You can also tell it was pretty flat. There were some little descents and ascents in the middle.

Curving down into the “lowland”.

I accidentally forgot to bring my poles. It was okay, but I’m glad I didn’t have much downhill. Once in the lower part of the forest, I came across this creek.

I could hear birds and frogs, but didn’t see them. 

As Mountain Bike Trails go, this was pretty easy (and I’m not a mountain biker). As hiking trails go, it was also easy, but a wee bit monotonous, but I wanted one more hike with some mileage, and this was convenient. 

Here’s a parting shot of a pine cone. 

Only 9 more days until I start the AT Approach Trail!






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