Hiking 1:40:27 [3] 8.18 km (12:17 / km) +291m 10:26 / km
shoes: 2017 Asics Gel
In Penwood SP on a beautiful day with breeze and clear skies, around 75F. Went up the paved road, west side, to Lake Louise. Then proceeded further north to ascend to the lookout point. But after 15 minutes I determined that I had missed a right turn for the blue (Metacomet) trail and was on the lower western trail. The state map showed a trail going n.e. from that trail to the blue trail, so I went another minute or two until I found a spot that just begged for ascent n.e. to the ridge, but there was no connecting trail there. Well, there ought to be, so I started n.e. bushwhacking for 10m when I found myself smack dab on a rather indistinct trail that started to get more distinct. I had nailed it. 12 minutes later I up to the blue, then south, and to the lookout. Enjoyed the view for a while then headed back south on the Metacomet to the car. Great hike. Gave me confidence that I've got the endurance to enjoy Huntington this Sunday.
NB: only my return track south is posted here.