Today was my last required co-lead to become a level 2 (and since I meet the requirements, level 3) trip leader for ADK.  We did Black Mountain by Lake George.  This is a lovely hike in general, and one that I will willing do over and over.  

The trail itself was in very good shape.  I hadn't done it since the fall, and there was more blowdown along the trail than I remembered, but for the most part it has been cleared from the trail.  What was surprising to me was how dry the trail was.  We did it as a loop, so up the short way, then down the back and around Black and Lapland ponds until we met our original trail again.  The stretch from Lapland to the red trail is typically a mud fest.  Not a single issue with the mud there today.  The temps were also quite lovely, not too hot, not cold, just pleasant, even with a gentle breeze most of the day.  The breeze helped keep the bugs away too.  It was hazy though, probably wildfire smoke from Canada, but it didn't smell of fire.  At the top, and most of the climb down the back side, the trail is very tight.  That said, it wasn't bad either.

Overall, a great day to hike and one I highly recommend to everyone.  Total 6.8 miles in just under 5 hours, bringing me to 222 miles over 149 hours with 10.4 miles of elevation year to date.  78 miles to 300!