A girlfriend of mine texted me saying that she wanted to go hiking. Of course, I’m game. It’s autumn in New England, and I’ve seen so many lovely posts on Instagram about the foliage in the White Mountains, so YES, I was GAME.

The plan: enjoy a lovely drive on the Kancamagus Highway, and to hike Mount Chocorua.

As it turned out, my friend was unable to join me. I put the hike out there to the ladies I met a few weekends ago at my AMC Women’s Weekend, but no takers. Since I’m not letting fear get in my way anymore, I decided to go anyway. Alone. I’m not completely un-informed – I know what to wear/carry. I brought all of that, and then some. I didn’t have a map, and I couldn’t find any online that I thought would be helpful to download to my phone, so I figured I’d pay attention to the signs on the trail… assuming there were any. I’ve heard it’s a very popular hike, so I figured if I needed help, someone would eventually pass me.

I REALLY needed to see the foliage.

I could write a big, long story (per my usual M.O.), but instead I’m just going to tell it you it was a long, tough hike (I ran 5mi that morning… it would’ve been easier on fresh legs). I didn’t really comprehend several warnings of a “rock scramble” at the summit – it was fucking scary, but I felt so strong and badass climbing to the top. The view was worth it.

The feeling of being a strong, independent, fearless woman was even better.

So that’s the end of the story. Here are pictures from my day:

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Best,