Another crummy day with every mile an absolute struggle. The mud did not get any better but the rain stopped. I hiked up to Stratton Mountain hoping to witness the magnificent 100 mile view that inspired the creation of the Appalachian trail. But it was not meant to be. The 24 degree air had frozen any precipitation onto the steps of the 50+ foot fire tower and the mountain was completely fogged in.

I watched the skies clear off when I was less than a mile down the mountain and the temperature rose quickly as the sun shone. I guess the joy of a thru hike is there will always be another view.