Long day planned so I started early. Port Clinton is at the bottom of a very steep 900 foot drop followed by a 900 foot climb out, though not quite as steep. The distance to the next shelter is 15 miles, about 9 before and 6 after Port Clinton.
Just getting to Port Clinton sapped my energy. The trail was very rocky (pictured) and it was warm and sunny. The drop was nearly straight down with a slippery surface of leaves and gravel (I skidded twice).
The AT crosses the Schuylkill rail trail (looks interesting) then the active rail lines (look and move quickly)(pictured).
Port Clinton is a tiny town (pictured) but looks like an interesting place to visit. Since I was there by noon, I kept a deal with myself to keep moving to the Windsor Furnace shelter. The AT ran through town then along the Schuylkill River (pictured), so I dipped my shirt in the river to cool me down during the climb. My shirt will probably smell like the river from now on, but it was cold and refreshing!
The trail passed under the highway before the climb (pictured) and had some #AppalachianTrail graffiti on the way.
The climb was long but switchbacks made it easier then I expected. That was followed by a gentle ascent along a promontory ridge (pictured) with nice views on each side. After more climbing, it was a rather easy hike towards the shelter.
Once again, I met Red Squirrel slackpacking south, who advised me of an upcoming spring, welcome news as I was low on water. She was also dipping her neckerchief in water to stay cool. We parted ways and I refilled my water and redoused my shirt below the spring (pictured). Johnny Walker and Bangles came along not long after.
It still seemed to take a long time to reach Windsor Furnace historical site and shelter (pictures), and I was very tired. I opted not to use my quilt expecting a warm night, but I got chilly late and put on my jacket. There was another tent nearby, but I had the shelter to myself again (most hikers prefer tents over shelters).
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