Zealand-Shoal-Cedar traverse 7/26/2014

22+ miles of redlining joy. Lots of hikers heading back from the hut in the early morning. From the Ethan Pond Trail below the Whitewall cliffs, I could see, waaaay in the distance, the col to the right of Hancock where I'd make my exit. The upper Shoal Pond Trail is undergoing maintenance to make it even better. The lower 3.3 miles has plenty of bog bridges to keep you dry. The only crossing I did barefoot was at Stillwater Junction. I paid my respects at the site of the suspension bridge. Cedar Brook rises only 1400' but it was a long slog after already hiking 15 miles. The usual mud. WMG describes the initial descent from the height of land as somewhat rough and needing care in following. It seemed like any other trail! After Hancock Loop, started to see other hikers again, including one trail runner. Gotta love the Caution gate at the hairpin parking lot.

special equipment: poles nice for crossings, but I don't carry them