Posted By auntie on August 21, 2016

4.7 miles; Groton, CT

Another Challenge Hike down, although this was, in theory, not particularly challenging. Under 5 miles, and all basically flat. How bad could that be?

Depends. If you’re a “lady of a certain age,” and very short for your weight, as I am, and you don’t freakin’ hike for almost 3 weeks, and hardly any distance at that, it can be very challenging. I swear I whined more on this hike than I did on the 10-mile Challenge Hike #1, and I had a massive freakin’ blister on that hike.

Selfie Spot

Yeah, don’t let that smile fool you. I was in pain.

Bayberries

Despite my copious whinging, I also managed to observe many signs of the approaching end of summer, like these heavily-laden bayberry bushes (Myrica pensylvanica)…

Beach Rose

…the last gasp of the beach roses (Rosa rugosa)…

Beautiful Purple Corts

…some pretty purple cort mushrooms (Cortinarius iodes)…

Joe Pye Weed

…and a glorious stand of Joe Pye Weed (Eupatorium sp.).

And we’re down to 3 Challenge Hikes left! Here’s hoping I’m in better shape for them than I was for today’s.

Categories: Connecticut, Walks and Hikes
Tags: 2–5 miles, CT, Groton CT