Day 164 Kathadin Stream Campground to Mt Kathadin (5.2 miles) 2189.8 miles total
Kris and I headed to Baxter State Park early this AM. Parking in the park is very tightly controlled. We had a prepaid pass that you have to use by 7AM or you lose your spot.
Next had to register with ranger at campground. They keep close track of hikers going up mountain also. I was NOBO thru-hiker number 734. When I left GA 164 days ago I was number 1391 to head north.
Got started up mountain at 7:30. Told Kris I’d be finished about 2PM so we planned to meet at 1:30.
My knee was still pretty sore but once I got moving felt better.
The climb up was very difficult in spots. Lot of rock climbing and rock scrambles.
There are lots of day hikers out here on a weekend. I was passing a lot of them and wondering what the heck some of them were doing on this approach trail when there is an easier one. Amazes me also that people actually do this for fun. That’s crazy!
Weather was partly cloudy. Thankful not wet. This could be dangerous if slippery and we all know I’m pretty good at crashing.
I was just cruising up. Day hikers could tell I was a focused, motivated thru-hiker and most offered congratulations as they got out of my way.
Coming up peak below I’m thinking that’s the summit. As I got real close, I could see a sign. I’m almost there. Got to that point and…false summit. Crap!! Got about another 3/4 mile to go but this time I can see the summit. At least I think I’m seeing summit.
Now I’m really motivated and moving because I can see people gathered and know I’m nearing summit. The old man was really flying. I’m almost through thru-hiking kept running through my head.
When I got within about 100 yds of summit I heard chant of “Pete, Pete, Pete…”. About a dozen hiker acquaintances (Goddess, P Tang, Happy Hour, Chimes, GQ, Bobo, Bubba) rooting the old dude to finish line. Got tears in my eye.
I made it. Incredible feeling of accomplishment. Spent about half hour on summit laughing, tearing up and just celebrating with friends I will probably never see again.
Said my good byes and headed back down. Came down the “easier” trail as I wanted to minimize chances of falling.
I was back down at 1PM. 5.5 hrs total. Just Pete just flew up and down.
Kris and I left from there heading towards Smugglers Notch, VT where we will spend the next week hiking…NOT!!
Thanks to all of you for your support and encouragement during this adventure. I will get back to you with where to send your donations next week. I need some time to rest, heal, and reassimilate into society!
I’ll make sure to post a pic when the beard comes off.
Thanks once again for your support. Couldn’t have done it without you.
Just Pete…OUT!
Just Pete Hiking 
Super proud of our hometown hero! Your journey has been very inspirational. Enjoy your time getting reacquainted with Kris and getting back to “civilization”. This Bud’s for you!!
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That’s awesome congratulations what an accomplishment. Smugglers is an enchanted place. Enjoy your time together you deserve it. Meanwhile hurricane Irma is still blustering high winds but your house is still standing. You should come home to some sunny weather. The storm should be over by 2 pm today. Safe travels home.
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Way to go Just Jeff!!!!!!!!!!!!!
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Congratulations!!! I’m tearing up for you. This is an amazing accomplishment. Enjoy! sending you big hugs!
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Happy tears for you my friend!!
Incredible accomplishment!!
Glad you got to see Goddesss & others & they’re cheering you on must have felt wonderful..
Enjoy a nice long shower(Kris would probably appreciate that,haha),a few ice cold Buds & a big ass steak..
Congratulations & well done
Just Bad Ass Pete
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I’m right with you on tearing up 😢😢. I couldn’t be more proud of your commitment and accomplishment. Will wait for the “old Jeff” photo update. Enjoy your r and r!!!
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CongrAtulations, Jeff, well done. Something to be most proud of….!!!!
Jim Harper
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Congratulations my friend! One Hell of an accomplishment. Now it’s time to cool-down and enjoy life.
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Congratulations Pete!!! So nice of your hiker friends to be there for you at the finish line!!! Hope we get to see you again in NJ – we owe you some cold brews and your favorite “Fireball” shot 🙂
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Pete I guess your future tough hikes will be up to the 19th hole hauling a golf cart instead of a back! I really enjoyed the daily updates on the blog and will miss them! Have a great vacation with Kris.
Oz
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Once again I’m tearing up over your finish. What an accomplishment! Safe travels and Godspeed
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Way to go Pete,👍🏽👏🏼👍🏽 the old man still had it in him😀
Looking forward to the updated pictures of you on the golf course with a beer and no more facial hair. I will recognize those photos😀🍺⛳️
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I had the best sleep last night knowing you were safe and in a warm place. You are amazing and we are sooo proud of you. Enjoy your r and r. Waiting for a beardless picture!! Love you, MOM
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Great job – Happy for you – Is there a new adventure on the way so we can follow you! LOL
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Reading your grand finish blog had me misty eyed. So happy that you set out and completed your mission. I remember two years ago when you told our Class of ’76 what your plans were. We chuckled a little and I looked at Kris thinking she will never let him to that. LOL Thank you Kris for sharing your husband this summer and giving us all a true sense of pride for Jeff. Blessings to all the Peterson family….
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From Darlene & Wayne a very long haul it took a lot hope to see you in lk hpoatcong on your &kris return
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From your Belgian ‘taxidrivers’ in the Shenandoah National Park, Bruno & Linda, … Yes, you did it! … Congrats!! 👏🏻 👏🏻 👏🏻
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Linda and Bruno:
Thanks so much. I’m glad you followed along with me. You were very important to the success of my hike. I really enjoyed meeting you. If you are ever in the Jacksonville, FL area, please contact me. Thanks once again!
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Congratulations Pete!! What an accomplishment. Been following you the whole trip – outstanding blog.
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Congratulations Jeff. What an amazing journey and accomplishment! I am going to miss the daily updates though. Maybe you should continue the blog of your post hike adventures?….enjoy some R&R regardless.👍
Cheers!
Matt
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