My climb up McDonough (nee Slip) Mountain starts with a bushwhack from the beaver swill along Derby Brook up a herd path to a col along the ridge connecting McDonough and Saddleback Mountains. An arduous hike east along the ridge pays off with beautiful views to the south from McDonough’s summit before retracing my way back west to set myself up for the journey down to Merriam Swamp the following day.
Jay Mountain Wilderness 2014: Following Along Derby Brook
Having explored Lot 8 before it was turned into another open pit mind, my bushwhacking adventure through the Jay Mountain Wilderness Area continues as I head west back toward my vehicle. From my second Lot 8 campsite, I follow the rocky Derby Brook westward to its headwaters before deciding whether or not to climb McDonough Mountain or head straight for Merriam Swamp.
