We were happy to take advantage of the great whether after a month of rain and conflicting appointments. As usual, our packs were larger than necessary, especially in comparison to the group we saw who were trail running the whole Pemigewasset Loop that day. But better safe than sorry, and it's good practice for the few overnight hikes we have planned for next year. Not too hot or buggy. Portions of the trail were exceedingly muddy. Though we've had a fair amount of rain lately, I suspect Gale River Trail is like that much of each summer. The mosses and other undergrowth was so exquisitely green, they were almost unreal, and a large crop of goldenrod added a nice touch to views from the Galehead Hut. A long but pretty trail, and no rock scrambles.