I spent a couple of days in the White Mountains of New Hampshire this past weekend shaking down my gear. I spent Friday night at the Liberty Spring Campsite just below Franconia Ridge, hiking in over Mt. Flume and Mt. Liberty from the Lincoln Woods trailhead. My route initially followed the East Branch of the Pemigewasset River before ascending into the mountains.
Overall, the trip went well, although I will have to work on optimizing use of space in my new backpack. At 62 liters, it should be plenty large enough for my trip, yet I had trouble fitting in my gear and food for 1-1/2 days.
I deferred taking pictures on the summits until Saturday morning as the wind was picking up. This gave me time to set up camp, filter water, cook dinner, and chat with the caretaker, who hiked the AT in 2014.
Not long after I turned in for the evening, the rain started. It had stopped by morning, but the clouds were low and there were no views from the top on Mt. Liberty or Mt. Flume. I did manage one shot from an outlook on the Osseo Trail coming down from Mt. Flume. Overall, a good trip, giving me confidence to begin my journey next week.
Backpacking with Uncle Malty 
Wow! 62 litres is a little tight for space. Wishing you luck in getting everything in there! I checked my pack after we had been talking…75 litres. That would be my gear, 3 days food, and whatever my part of the crew gear happened to be.
LikeLike
It was tight for space. I ended up strapping my foam pad outside the pack, so I will have Katie send you your pad. Thanks for the loan!
LikeLike
I bought a compression sack for my tent and now can fit my tent and sleeping bag in the bottom compartment. I think that will free up enough room. I should know by now, but probably will not confirm until Tuesday night. At that point it will be a decision as to what I do not need, if everything does not fit.
LikeLike
Best wishes for a successful challenging lifetime experience. Looking forward to following your progress.
Assume you are using freeze dried foods For the Transatlantic Race , after much research, we selected Cashe Creek which was very good.
ITB
Bob
LikeLike
Thank you, and thanks for that tip. I have been happy in the past with Mountain House, but will keep my eyes open for Cache Creek. I bought a food dehydrator and have about 65 of my own homemade meals also.
LikeLike