August 9, 14:40, Minerva Hinchey Shelter, 83.5 miles down: Grmble. Lunch is too slow to cook because my stove has no real simmer -- just hot, hotter, and ATOMIZE. I have to run it for a bit, turn it off, etc. It works.

I want at least another 6.5 miles today to get my average back up after my weekend in town. My best bet is Governor Clement Shelter (10.5), but there have been some problems there with carousing locals. Clarendon is too close, at 3.7 miles, and I'd never make it to Cooper Lodge (14.6). Cooper isn't that far out, but it's over Killington - 4,231 feet up. Not a chance. I'll take my chances in Gov. Clement, although I know all too well that the most dangerous beasts on this trail go on 2 legs, not 4.

Either way, I'm not staying here. This shelter is so dreary!

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