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September 7th, 2021: Stratton Pond Shelter to VT-11 (10.5 miles, 1,017 ft elevation gain)
Today, my only goal was making it in one piece to the Green Mountain House Hiker Hostel. Compared to the last few days, it would be a low-mileage day. All I had to do was make it to the road and contact the Green Mountain House, and they would send a free shuttle.
It was a bumpy hike; the trail had less mud but way more roots and rocks. 11 mostly uneventful miles later, I made it to the road around 12:00, and my driver arrived 30 minutes later.
She took me straight to the hostel, and I received the tour. The kitchen was available to use for everyone; they had many beds, and most importantly, hot running water. I took a shower, and it was glorious. Hikers trickled in for the next few hours. It was good to have the company.
WARNING: Gross feet incoming, so if you are sensitive to that, skip over the next pic. Also, don’t clip it and sell it to a foot fetish website unless I get some percentage of it. Thank you.
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After the shower, I did laundry, cleaned my shoes, (they have a shoe dryer!!!). And ordered some delivery pizza from Christos (delicious).
Most importantly, I was able to speak with my wife and let her know I was not dead. It was good to hear her voice and hear that our dogs are doing well (except for Sadie jumping on counters).
Author’s Note: I would 100% recommend any hiker passing through Manchester to stay at the Green Mountain House; it was cheap and has everything you could want. Plus, the owners are extremely friendly and welcoming.
Previously: Long Trail: Day 3 (Goddard Shelter to Stratton Pond Shelter)