This five miler was a real challenge of steep ups and downs with plenty of acorns and wet leaves underfoot. And for all that, it was five miles of stunning beauty, intoxicating autumn weather, and the reward of actually seeing the “Hermit Castle” and roaming around in it. In the 1860s, John Smith of Scotland was rebuffed by his dear love Betsy and set out to find solitude. He landed in New York, made his way north, and discovered a remote cave (his “castle”) in Erving MA. He lived there from 1867 until 1899. He lived a peaceful but busy life, had wildflower gardens which were said to be very beautiful, tended crops, knit and made cordage rugs, and crafted wreaths from the abundant mountailn laurel on the mountain. As well, he did a lot of writing. In his prime, people came from near and far to visit him. You could google him if you’re interested. We poked around in the cave itself and marveled at the life he had there. Stone walls that he built around his gardens are still standing. Then up up up to a great lunch spot with big views. It was so wonderful and so nice and warm on the rocks that Joe Zadroga took a short rest that had us wondering if he might slide right off the rock! Enjoy these colorful autumn days. Frost is predicted- at last- for us tonight. Oh ….. and none of us will be trading in our homes for a cave any time soon. Love, Penny 
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