Back in January, when we didn’t have a care in the world, my cousin Paige Lane invited me on a trip to Nashville, TN with her friends. It was to be a 50th birthday celebration for Paige and a couple of the other ladies in the group, and because I too was hitting the half century mark, Paige thought of me as well.

Paige and I have been very close throughout our lives and this trip was something we were looking forward to doing together. We excitedly booked our trip and shared fun ideas on a Facebook group about what we would do while we were there. Unfortunately when Covid-19 hit in March, everything shut down and our trip to Music City was put on hold. To say we were disappointed is an understatement.

Fast forward several months. Paige and her husband Rod have a camp on Pleasant Pond in Island Falls. It is, in my opinion, the most beautiful part of the state. About an hour from Baxter State Park, it has some of the most majestic lakes, hikes, and views you will ever see. When our children were young, we also had a camp there and our families made some of the most incredible memories together. A couple weeks ago, she was headed to camp for a few days and invited me along. I jumped at the chance. Having missed out on our trip to Nashville, it was an opportunity to not only spend time with her, but also explore our great state.

Upon my arrival, and in typical Paige fashion, she had already picked out a hike at South Branch Mountain. “South Branch Pond is a favorite for us since you can hike, swim or canoe. I had been there years back but we didn’t do the South Branch Pond Trail, which takes you all the way around both ponds and to the top of Black Cat Mountain,” she said. On Maine Trail Finder we saw this particular hike is a 6.6 mile loop and the difficulty is advanced due to the rocky and steep terrain. I didn’t hesitate and we planned to go the following day.

The weather did not cooperate, however, and upon our arrival at the gate, a very kind ranger informed us what we already knew; it was too dangerous for us to make this hike in the rain. We thanked him and planned to return the next day when the sun would be shining and we could safely enjoy our experience.

I woke the next morning to Paige playing ‘Ain’t No Mountain High Enough’ by Marvin Gaye on her phone. We put on our comfortable clothing, packed our walking sticks, snacks, and plenty of water and got on our way (again). About 20 miles before the entrance is a quaint general store and restaurant called Shin Pond Village. We stopped for gas and a few extra provisions. When we arrived at the gate, the same ranger took our information and informed us that Maine residents were free on that day!

Our hike began at the northwest shore of Lower South Branch. We actually had to take our sneakers and socks off to cross the small pond to get to the trail. Paige took the lead, and slowly and steadily, we made our way up to the first peak. It was truly a cathartic experience; in what is such an uncertain time, we were in the moment and thinking of nothing but this journey.

We stopped for the obligatory selfie at the South Branch Mountain North Peak Elevation sign, reveling in our accomplishment, but it was far from over. When we reached the second peak on Black Cat Mountain, the views were incredible. It was the perfect place to stop for a snack break, rest our slightly sore muscles, and enjoy not only the beauty that was right in front of us, but also to remind ourselves that we are 50-year-old women and we are unstoppable. It sure wasn’t Nashville, but in many ways, it was so much better.

While it was hard to leave that beautiful view, we still had quite a trip down ahead of us. The first 10 minutes of the descent was steep and rocky but eventually we made our way to more level terrain. We were slowing down and could definitely feel fatigue setting in, but the views of Upper South Branch and the cliffs made it all worth it. As we came around the pond, we began to see groups of people who had canoed across the pond to do shorter hikes. In some small way, we enjoyed the satisfaction of having completed the whole loop.

By the time we reached the South Branch Campground, we snapped a picture of Paige’s Apple Watch which told the actual story of what we’d just done — 5 hours and 24 minutes, reaching an elevation of 2087 feet, and traveling 7.47 miles. We ended the journey back where we started, at Shin Pond Village where we devoured the most delicious cheeseburgers and hand-cut fries we’d ever had.

Many things stand out about this hike. Paige shared, “The natural pine smell of the forest, the beauty of the blue sky and looking down on other hills, and the especially good taste

of our snacks and cool water when we stopped for breaks. But I think the best memory is completing it with a friend (and cousin!!). She also reflected, “We didn’t do anything to train for this hike, but we do surround ourselves with like minded friends who help to keep us active. I’ve been playing soccer (and now pickle ball) with a wonderful group of women for well over 10 years. We meet at least once a week to play; we get sweaty and exhausted and then we stay to talk about life. They have been good for the body and soul!”

When I was in my twenties and thirties, I never thought about what I would (or wouldn’t) be able to do when I turned 50. I had this preconceived notion that I’d always be able to do everything that brought me joy. However, two ACL surgeries have put a damper on that. While I can’t play softball or volleyball anymore, I still work out 3-4 times a week and I can still enjoy a good hike (with the aid of a knee brace). It is also very important for me to spend time with my girlfriends; the older I get, the more I realize how much we truly need that companionship.

I highly recommend getting out and exploring Maine, especially at this time when our tourist industry is being affected by Covid-19. There are so many places to see across this incredible state and many amazing experiences to be had. We both suggest you research what kind of hike you want to do, be prepared for it in every way, and have reasonable expectations. And finally, as my wise cousin said, “Age is just a number, let your spirit be the guide to your life!”