Tramp & Trail

Write-up: Madonna Fellows
Leader: Madonna Fellows

54 Tramps ventured off to North Conway in the White Mountains of New Hampshire for a full week of adventure. Upon arrival, the search for the right room in the right house began. Once settled into our own space we were ready to let the good times roll.

Our week started with a kayak trip down the beautiful Saco River planned by Lu Blanchard.

Blue skies and hot weather made it ideal to stop and take an occasional dip in the amazingly clear water.

All went well until a few people capsized pinning Kathy Countryman under two kayaks and unable to free herself. After a few very scary moments, she was released and although a little shaken she breathed a sigh of relief and paddled on.

Don Fellows could not resist the challenge of a rope swing only to discover that the very rope swing was the source of many broken bones over the summer.

On Wednesday, off we went on our bikes.

Don Fellows led a group on a 30 mile ride stated to be “downhill” but appeared to be mostly “uphill”. The scenery along the route was spectacular.

Chuck Balser jumped into his biking clothes and was off leading a shorter ride only 15 minutes after arriving in North Conway. In spite of having no prior knowledge of the route, he managed to bring all the bikers back safely.

A barbeque at the Moat Mountain Smoke House & Brew Co. on Wednesday evening was enjoyed by everyone thanks to the terrific planning by Jean Yost.

On Thursday, a group embarked on the Scenic Conway Railroad for a trip up through Crawford Notch arranged by Deb Roberts. Another beautiful clear day made this a trip to remember by those who joined her.

On Friday, a hike up Mt Chocorua led by Dianna Morris and Jim Waz was the highlight of the hikes. Again the stellar weather only added to the enjoyment of the views at the top of the mountain. Though difficult in nature, it was well worth the effort.

Special congratulations go to John Gilbert and Charlene, Tom Smith and Doug Waz for successfully reaching the summit of Mt Washington at 6’289 feet.

Aside from Kathy Countryman nearly drowning on the Saco River, Don Fellows injuring his shoulder trying for the “perfect” photo while in Dianna’s Bath, Kathy Davis requiring stitches in her hand after falling while looking for a phone booth and Mary Pat Connors with a bruised foot caused from a runaway towel bar, we had a wonderful time.
We hiked, biked, kayaked, swam, shopped, ate and drank, but most of all we laughed. Never let it be said that “tramps” don’t know how to have a good time because when in the company of our tramp family, how could we not.

[Coming soon: The full set of photos of New Hampshire in the Gallery-2014]