Good call to stay in a motel last night instead of camping at the primitive site in Zoar. The temps got below freezing, it rained and our cars were all iced. But today promised to be a good one, if cold, and it was.
The three of us shuttled our cars and began hiking from Bowerston Section Point 5 to Zoar. The temps were in the 30s and 40s Fahrenheit (-1 to 4.4 C) all day, with some wind. So we were chilly, despite our layers.
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Making Our Way to Zoar
The scenery along the way was enjoyable. Lots of ridges and hilltops with sweeping views. We also passed a lot of homes out in the country, which was a little surprising.
Toward the end of the day, we got onto a canal towpath that led into Zoar. Being a canal towpath, it was flat – yay! But more importantly, I have now left the Buckeye Trail and am on the North Country Trail (not piggybacking on another trail). Another milestone!
That being said, we hope to do a little research on Zoar. Signage in the small town says it’s the longest communal settlement in the U.S., settled by German Zoars who were seeking religious freedom. The town has lots of historic buildings to tour. My hiking friend, Amy, was a German major in college and travels frequently to Germany, so she is especially interested in this.
Snowshoe
Ohio NCT miles today: 18.3 (29.5 km)
Ohio NCT miles to date: 938.9 (1,511 km)
Total NCT miles to date: 3,786.6 (6,093.9 km)
Total NCT miles to go: 813.4 (1,309 km)
Most useful gear today: This thick (but light) sponge, which I placed between my backpack and lower back. It kept the backpack from digging into my back.
