Welcome to WhiteBlaze.net

[Tuney]

TMM,

I'm looking for more of a hiking guide book.... Thanks

I bought two books this week. "Long Distance Hiking" by Roland Mueser 1998, and "The Appalachian Trail" How to prepare for and hike it, By Jan D Curran revised 2002.

Both books are interesting, and contain some good insights into hiking, safety, and what to expect from the experience.

However, IMO in the areas of equipment, hygine, and conservation, the information available from http://trailjournals.com and the forums here at whiteblaze and at http://trailplace.com/forums/index.php, is more current, and accurate based on more recent technological changes, research and experience.

[JuiceBox]

I've been lurking for a while, but only recently decided to contribute. I've been camping since I was in the womb, and backpacking for a couple years now. I feel most at home in the backwoods, as far from civilization as possible.

[m6amba]

hey all, new to the site, love it so far!
enjoyed hiking all my life, always wanted to get into backpacking, and last year i took the plunge, bought all my equipment, and have been fine tuning it ever since (im one of those UL weirdos)
i currently live 10 minutes from the trail, and hope to take advantage of that as much as i can this summer, for as many dayhikes/overnighters as i can, with some 3-4 days thrown in there
and HOPEFULLY a 7-10 dayer at the end of summer


best friend and i are going to thru-hike the summer we both turn 30, which will be 2014, gotta get as much knowledge as we can beforehand

anybody wants to go for a dayhike/overnighter in central pa ( from carlisle to port clinton areas) send me a PM, i have off at least 2 days during the week, and would LOVE to crank out some miles with experienced hikers (especially if they keep it slow for my fat ass...lol)

[bugnout]

Hi all,
This forum is a great resource. Just returned from a section hike Dickey Gap to Damascus last week with my brother and his college roommate. I should have spent some time here before I went. I need to lighten up my load a lot and update some of my equipment and techniques. Looks like this is the place to learn.

Lifetime experience, about 20 days and about 200 miles total between Philmont, Ice Age trail and now the AT.

[viridian]

From what I've read, there's a lot of good information buried in this forum. I'm a backpacking newb and looking forward to refining her backpacking knowledge/skills/gear/experience.

[bschneid]

Hey guys!

I am new to the forum and just wanted to say hi to everyone. I live in Colorado and love the outdoors and can't wait to talk about our common interests!

[350]

Just wanted to say hi to everyone, joined today and really enjoying reading all the different forum's. Husband and i do mainly dayhike's for now as we just started last year nothing earth shattering yet. We have been working on all the waterfall hikes in the gatlinburg area plus several trail's in the area as it's our favorite place to run to.
Gotta start somewhere...

[Allen1901]

Hello!

Cheers!

[DeafRon]

Hello,
Planning a thru hike in 2011.... I had planned for 2008, but life got in the way, now shooting for March of 2011... Will be absorbing all I can from the forum and ty all in advance.

[Jofish]

Hey everyone,

I'm pretty new to the WhiteBlaze. I live in [flat] Wisconsin, but I'm originally from Massachusetts and have done quite a bit of hiking in New Hampshire and even more in Maine, where I went to undergrad. Gotta give my props to my parents and Boy Scouts for getting me into camping, hiking, and canoeing. I'm hoping to do a 2010 northbound, as long as I can graduate by then (stupid grad school). I've already picked up quite a few good tips from cruising the site and I look forward learning more. Thanks to everyone thats posting!

peace

[double d]

Jofish, try hiking the Ice Age Trail in Wisconsin if you haven't already. Great trail, not the White Mts that your used too, but again, not bad hiking either.

[Matt'smom]

Hello all you AT hikers!

I am a mom back in Colorado and my son is hiking the trail. He is now in Pearisburg, VA and has separated from his buddy. If anyone sees him give him a hug from his mom, I think he is referred to as Aesop. I would love it if I can talk to some of you folks and see how you are doing and where you come from. Ttfn

Mom

[barth]

hi guys, my name is Igor, i m from eastern Europe, i m here only one year, but i had honor to meet the Appalachian mountains already twice, my first time was last summer in Shenandoah where i spent my honey moon. Two days ago i was in Delaware Water Gap, it was gorgeous, i really like, and i have big hope to become a member of your group, and to enjoy the hiking with you guys and my wonderful wife :)

[mere533]

hello, ive decided to stop creeping and join the site. ive been hiking a few years now, mainly out west in cold weather, and am hoping to thruhike one day. just wanted to say hi and hopefully pick up a few tips from yall! :)

[Alerys]

I've been reading articles on this site for several days now, and finally caught up on the forums enough to where I think I'm ready to jump in.

I'm planning a NOBO thru-hike for next year, and am just trying to soak up as much information as I can before I hit the road. Lots of great info on this site so far, thanks so much to the folks who created and maintain it!

[Rockhound]

Hello all you AT hikers!

I am a mom back in Colorado and my son is hiking the trail. He is now in Pearisburg, VA and has separated from his buddy. If anyone sees him give him a hug from his mom, I think he is referred to as Aesop. I would love it if I can talk to some of you folks and see how you are doing and where you come from. Ttfn

Mom
I met your son in Damascus and he is a great trail representative. Triple AAA all the way. through his Actions, Attitude and Ability. This can be said of only a small portion of thru hikers. You did a great job raising him mom.

[PSy BaSS]

Hi everybody,

Just wanted to say hi........ it's good to know that there are so many cool dudes and dudetts that like to walk! i've been reading over some of the threads and it seems like you lot are a cool bunch, which is a breath of fresh air because i was worried that people walking the AT might be as loony as me!! I will be attempting to thru hike the AT NOBO 2010 which is very exciting! I'm an Aussie working on yachts; opposite ends of the spectrum! going to trade those sea legs in for some trail legs! I'm sure this is the right place for me..... so many knowledgeable funny people i can learn from!! Anyway just wanted to introduce myself

Psy Bass

[Alive Adventure Gear]

Long time visitor. First time member. Met a guy (Wish I could remember his name) working at Mountain Crossings a year or so ago who told me about the site. Thanks for the discussion. Looking forward to being a part of it.

[slickgoku]

Thought I'd chip in here with a good hearty hello. New to all this stuff, never really backpacked a day in my life (walked plenty in town though). Hoping to get the $ for cheap gear and to have a shot at the AT in 2011 or maybe 2012 if things don't line up!

Later

[kayak karl]

Thought I'd chip in here with a good hearty hello. New to all this stuff, never really backpacked a day in my life (walked plenty in town though). Hoping to get the $ for cheap gear and to have a shot at the AT in 2011 or maybe 2012 if things don't line up!

Later
...:welcome...

[manbeartim]

Hey all. Just joined up, hell of a site you guys have. Living in central NJ and going to school near Albany, NY. Not sure about a thru-hike, but I have some friends at home who like hiking and camping for a few days to a week at a time. Just checking in and hoping to sponge off some knowledge from ye Wise Men/Women of the Mountains.

[roch418]

Just wanted to say hello to all. I will be starting my thru hike in the spring of '10 and have begun the planning (and learning!) for my trip. I have done lots of day and weekend hikes, but never anything on this scale yet. I have found this site very valuable for tips and insights so far, and hope to be able to contribute, myself, in the future.

[blazinfire]

Hey guys what’s up? My name is Alex, I’m 25 and been living in LA for about the past 3 years. It’s a pretty awesome place to live! Not to mention some great trails to ride on. There’s this crazy one in Alta Dena I did recently, super fun!
I love music, live shows, the beach, hiking, surfing and mountain biking. I work for an awesome company; Klondike, yeah like the ice cream. Hehe…anywho, glad to have joined up with this community, hope to chat with you all soon.

[Buffet]

Hello. I am Buffet. I hike on the AT. Thanks for this groovy forum!

[The Weasel]

Hey guys what’s up? My name is Alex, I’m 25 and been living in LA for about the past 3 years. It’s a pretty awesome place to live! Not to mention some great trails to ride on. There’s this crazy one in Alta Dena I did recently, super fun!
I love music, live shows, the beach, hiking, surfing and mountain biking. I work for an awesome company; Klondike, yeah like the ice cream. Hehe…anywho, glad to have joined up with this community, hope to chat with you all soon.


Hello. I am Buffet. I hike on the AT. Thanks for this groovy forum!

Alex, Buffet, welcome! This is a good site, probably the best overall backpacking site anywhere. All of us hope you enjoy it.

As for Alex, yeah, we've got some pretty good hiking trails out here, and you don't even need to bring a stove to cook your food over an open fire at this time of year! Alta Dena is a good place to stay out of right now, though.

Glad you're both here.

The Weasel

[ridgerunninrat81]

Howdy All I cant believe I didn't find this web site until now. April 1st 1981 I started what was supposed to be a thru hike. It didn't turn out that way. Left Springer mountain on April 2ND, made it to Damascus Va. Where we were informed about the murder of two AT hikers between there and pearisburg. Skipped that section went to pearisburg stayed at the hostel and supported and received support from my AT class family. After we were cleared to leave and continue, I made it to my home state of Massachusetts. Had run into some bad water (filters were not as good then lol) Got real sick and went home for a week. Hiked into Vermont and ran out of time. a new job was starting. IN 82 and 83 continued to move the hiking stick forward. Until I climbed My Katahdin. To me the hike was completed. But it was not so in 2007 went down to pearisburg and hiked to Damascus. Truly finished now!! Look forward to sharing stories and discovering changes that have taken place along the AT I hope some of my 81Er's are here. Looking at the threads I have alot of reading to do lol

[Freeze55]

Hello everyone,
I just stopped by to say hi. I'm hoping to to thru-hike the AT sometime in the next few years (2011 or 2012). Right now, I have very little backpacking experiance so I'm going to need all the help I can get and this seems like the place.

[haeveingridseyn]

hello everyone,:sun

I'm peter.
I'm new to this site.

[medicdude332]

Howdy - wanted to say 'Hi' - lots of good information here. Thanks for pointing me in this directions, Attroll!

I hear the AT calling...

[Framling]

Just popping in here to say 'hi' and that I'm new! I'm guessing this thread serves as a sort of intro. I'm literally gearing up to start much longer hikes along the AT (I currently live in Atl, GA) and I figured if any place was a fount of wisdom, it would be here ;)

[Wise Old Owl]

http://i250.photobucket.com/albums/gg275/MarkSwarbrick/AVcaveman.jpg

[Tuney]

Very Cute! When the notification first showed up in my e-mail, I thought someone was spamming the site and jumped right in to report it. Then I stopped and read the whole thing. Now I think it's very cool.

Thing about it is the Caveman could probably hike most of us, especially the old timers under the table since his only mode of transportation was his feet, and we've had 50 or 60 years to become couch potatoes.

[NellieInez]

Guessing that this is used for an intro type deal. HI! im new. My hubby and I are shooting for a thru hike this upcoming march/ late feb if we can get the finances up and stick to our planned budget. Anyways, just didn't want to lurk around. Now that I have introduced myself, I am going to soak up some more of this great info. :D

Nellie

[Third Wheel]

I've been on here before, but that was about 3 years ago..man time flies and I ain't gettin any younger! Still can't let go of my dream to hike the AT or ,rather, the dream won't leave me alone... it's haunting me...

[Tuney]

You will when it's time to go. I just woke up one morning this January and said to myself it's now or never so I'm taking this year to put the rest of my life in order and on hold, and plan to start SOBO May 29, 2010 to hike home to GA.

[Tuney]

You will know when it's time to go. I just woke up one morning this January and said to myself it's now or never so I'm taking this year to put the rest of my life in order and on hold, and plan to start SOBO May 29, 2010 to hike home to GA.

I left out the most important word in the original post.

[inaffably]

hello and thanks for the site, it will be very useful

[MD HIKER 73]

Hello , I have been checking out the site for a few years now. I'm not sure why it took me so long to regester. This is a great site thanks.

[Migrating Bird]

Hello I just joined this site after viewing for a while. I have always enjoyed the AT. My daughter and her boyfriend are SOBOS and are within a few days of completing their thru hike having left Katahdin on June 3rd. I will be heading down to hook up with them and hike for a few days to Springer. As my 85 year old friend who had been following their progress said "going to get in on the kill, huh".

Thanks to all for the very informative site.

[DirtySouth]

Greetings to you all. I like to introduce myself when joining a board in order to get the hazing out of the way first thing. I have been a longtime member on other forums, typically relating to vehicle (motorcycle) travel and adventures, so I can atleast navigate my way around the board. I enjoy hiking, camping and even working in the outdoors as a Land Surveyor, but lately I have been wanting to get back to the roots (foot travel), versus vehicle travel. My work has been slow lately and I have been thinking of doing the Georgia section of the AT, so I thought I better get some ideas and tips before setting out in the blind. It appears that there is a wealth of information here and I hope that eventually I will be able to contribute versus just taking.

[Sugar33]

Hi I Just Wanted To Introduce Myself Im New Here. Im 33 I Live In Fayetteville N.c I Never Hiked The Trail Hope To Do That Someday I Would Love To Chat With Anyone Especally If U Thru Hiked The A T I Wanna Hear Your Stories

[Tin Man]

Hi I Just Wanted To Introduce Myself Im New Here. Im 33 I Live In Fayetteville N.c I Never Hiked The Trail Hope To Do That Someday I Would Love To Chat With Anyone Especally If U Thru Hiked The A T I Wanna Hear Your Stories

post specific questions on the forums and many will offer advice... have a few grains of salt handy... just in case :)

[Hammbone]

Hi. I'm new here and there. I am a noob trailhead. Just finished up some good break-in hiking in the PNW and now I'm hooked.

[Sugar33]

just wanna say hi. if theres anyone out here in n.c area get back to me thanks

[Aussie Newbie]

Hi All,
This post comes with a disclaimer, I am not just an AT/Whiteblaze newbie, but also a forum newbie. I'm usually fine with digging up my own information, but have found that there isn't a great deal of info forthcoming down here in Australia on the AT!
Will try and find the appropriate forum, but if anyone can point me in the right direction - my husband and I are looking at section hiking southbound from Harpers Ferry to Roanoke-ish in Oct/Nov 2010. Its a much anticipated part of our 12-month journey around the globe, to reconnect us with this amazing planet that we are so privileged to live on. Hope to chat with some of you soon :)

[warraghiyagey]

Hi All,
This post comes with a disclaimer, I am not just an AT/Whiteblaze newbie, but also a forum newbie. I'm usually fine with digging up my own information, but have found that there isn't a great deal of info forthcoming down here in Australia on the AT!
Will try and find the appropriate forum, but if anyone can point me in the right direction - my husband and I are looking at section hiking southbound from Harpers Ferry to Roanoke-ish in Oct/Nov 2010. Its a much anticipated part of our 12-month journey around the globe, to reconnect us with this amazing planet that we are so privileged to live on. Hope to chat with some of you soon :)
:welcome:welcome:sun:sun

[Lone Wolf]

Hi All,
This post comes with a disclaimer, I am not just an AT/Whiteblaze newbie, but also a forum newbie. I'm usually fine with digging up my own information, but have found that there isn't a great deal of info forthcoming down here in Australia on the AT!
Will try and find the appropriate forum, but if anyone can point me in the right direction - my husband and I are looking at section hiking southbound from Harpers Ferry to Roanoke-ish in Oct/Nov 2010. Its a much anticipated part of our 12-month journey around the globe, to reconnect us with this amazing planet that we are so privileged to live on. Hope to chat with some of you soon :)

direct all your inquiries to me. i am the resident know-it-all. god of the AT if you will

[warraghiyagey]

Agreed. . .

[bigmac_in]

direct all your inquiries to me. i am the resident know-it-all. god of the AT if you will


Agreed. . .

Absolutely.

[58starter]

Thanks for the Site. I am 58 and have now hiked 3 small sections of the AT. I retired in June and plan to section hike the whole trail. I have used this site for most of my backbacking information.

[jonjones88]

New to the site and hiking as well. I am overweight and use hiking as not only exercise, but now motivation to lose weight so I can hike even more. I live in Georgia. I plan to hike the entire GA portion by this time next year. I can only do it on weekends and breaks when school is out (I work for a county school system), the exception is summer, as I work through the summer. Anyway, I have only hiked Woody Gap to Miller Gap, and also did Woody to Dockery lake this past saturday (I am still sore!!!). I am sure that that is a walk in the park to most of you, but for me it was tough. I plan to start my journey starting from Amicalola to Springer Gap (there is parking there) next month over 2 days, taking it easy. I will have to do it in sections where there is parking or a way to exit the trial to be picked up. I plan to do each section in order from Amicalola (yes, I know its not officially part of the AT) to the NC border. Anyway, just wanted to say hi, and share my plans.

[inti]

Just wanted to add my Thanks ATTROLL for this site. I was up in the Pisgah NF, NC this last weekend training ( 30 lb pack - Looking Glass Rock) and was told about the site by a fellow hiker. I turn 50 this year and have always wanted to Thru hike. After raising a family (26 and 21), 27 years with a great Lady and realizing that I don't really like the "Jones" I started back hiking a few months ago. I forgot that peace one feels while on the trail and was glad to get it back. Again Thanks for this site (donation on the way ) and hope to see you at my first Traildays this year. Take care:sun

[everydayhiker]

New member here. I have enjoyed hiking over the past couple of years, and truly cant get enough of it. I have hiked many parts of the trail here in VA and will be moving to Hawaii for the next 3 years. Cant wait already to make it back here. But I guess Hawaii hiking will be just as beautiful. Awesome website so far. Still have alot of exploring to do on here.

[Alan Ellis]

Great site and lots of good info.

So, I'm finally eligible to retire (age 48) and am starting the preliminary planning for my thru hike. I've hiked sections in PA, GA, and SC, but now want to do a thru hike. Unfortunately, I can't go in 2010 because the wife and I already planned a cruise for April and have a couple of mountaineering trips planned for next summer. So...2011 looks like my year.

Luckily, I am extremely fit, have lots of backpacking, hiking, and mountaineering experience, and already own all the lightweight gear I need. I just need a start date.

Anyway, I've lurked for a few weeks and finally decided to join. Thanks to all the experienced people who make this site happen and for your patience in dealing with AT noobs.

[sheepdog]

welcome to wb.
:welcome
sheepdog

[Wesoloski]

Hey guys. Pretty new to the site, found it maybe a day ago or so when I started toying with the idea of a SOBO hike next summer. Lotsa great info and friendly people here it seems. Just want to thank everyone in advance when I start inundating everyone with nooby questions...sooo

Thanks! :)

[jxtc27]

Just recently had thoughts of doing the trail and am very excited to do it. I live a very active lifestyle, but have never committed to hiking such as this. I will using all the posted knowledge to help me prepare. A friend of mine and myself plan to hit the trail together. We both reside on the coast of southeast Georgia. Brunswick/St.Simon's Island area to be exact. It's gonna be hard to train on sand dunes for rocky terrain, but we'll make it work. We will appreciate all advice for we have lil.

[Fleur de Lis]

Hello, everyone! New to WhiteBlaze, new to hiking, and anxious to learn all I can as well as to meet some friendly folks!

[everydayhiker]

Welcome Fleur de Lis. Glad you could join us.

[Fleur de Lis]

Thanks so much!

[pfann]

Hello,

I joined in August after a trip to the Whites with my oldest son, but have only recently posted. I hope to thru hike in 8 years when I can retire. Don't want to wait till the last minute.

Hopefully I can work some section hikes in during the next few years, as lond as I can convince the Social director (wife)

[Dog Lover]

Hello everyone. Just wanted to introduce myself. I have enjoyed recreational hiking my entire life but am very beginner compared to most people here. I work in DC and live in northern VA but spend most of my time hiking in VA with my girlfriend and dog. I also like to x-country ski and recently got a canoe. I hope to learn about good hikes within a few hour drive of the DC area and places to ski and canoe that are off of the beaten path. Hopefully that is ok with members of the forum since I may not always go on the Appalacian trail. I'm looking forward to reading up on this site.

[colemancol]

Hello Everyone,

I am a new bie here. Searching new things is one of my hobby.I have visited the site and find too interesting. It was not to hard to be registered as there is in other sites.I like forum discussion since people can share their views and ideas to others.They can give comments on others topic and suggest them.

http://easybmp.sourceforge.net/images/Steganography/Newbie.png

[FritztheCat]

Colemancol, welcome to Whiteblaze! I love the pic! Made me laugh out loud!

[Skidsteer]

Colemancol, welcome to Whiteblaze! I love the pic! Made me laugh out loud!

Well don't get too excited. Funny pic but Colemancol is a busy little spammer on webforums lately. Note the signature...

[warraghiyagey]

Spam flavored gummi bears? . . . gross. . . .

[warraghiyagey]

Well don't get too excited. Funny pic but Colemancol is a busy little spammer on webforums lately. Note the signature...
That and you wouldn't expect somenone actually from the UK to butcher the english language so badly. . . I'm guessing they're from about 7 or 8 timezones east of there. . .

[Skidsteer]

That and you wouldn't expect somenone actually from the UK to butcher the english language so badly. . . I'm guessing they're from about 7 or 8 timezones east of there. . .

UmHmmm. India actually. Imagine that.

[FritztheCat]

Didn't catch that. Or rather I did see it but had no idea what it meant. :o

Still a funny pic though. :D

[JoshStover]

:welcome Welcome to White Blaze! You should really enjoy this site! If you need to learn ANYTHING about hiking or the AT, this is the place to go...

[superman]

welcome to wb.
:welcome
Superman
:Dthankyou...thank you very much.

[chrisoc]

I'm new here and thought I'd say hi. I am over the hill as far as hiking goes but I can join you vicariously on this site! I am retired to a New Jersey barrier island, so I can walk on the beach any time I want.

[klar4230]

I just wanted to say hi! My name is Katie and I'm thinking about hiking the trail, have always wanted to! Hope to get some great info here!

[rusejery]

Hello friends,

I have just joining this community.I am very glad to be here and have all other members.I hope that we will have healthy discussion and latest information sharing regarding to related topics.I hope for a nice time in future.

[warraghiyagey]

Hello friends,

I have just joining this community.I am very glad to be here and have all other members.I hope that we will have healthy discussion and latest information sharing regarding to related topics.I hope for a nice time in future.
Can we expect a sales pitch soon. . . . ?? . . . . :)

[warraghiyagey]

Perhaps about Protein Powder?? . . . . queue Jeopardy them song. . . . .

[warraghiyagey]

Does SPAM have protein?? . . . :-?

[Outsider]

Hello from South Georgia. This is a great site!! Looking for info about hiking and the AT. Planning on a weekend (or two) trip with my son next summer.

[Tuney]

Welcome to White Blaze. You'll find lots of friendly folks here and a wealth of information.

[Tinker]

You Georgia folks have it made when you start a thruhike. I only did the Georgia section (time limitations) back in 2006, but enjoyed the folks I met on the trail and in towns. You have a beautiful state. I'll be back when (if) I thruhike. If I do a N-S hike I might never leave. :)

[Tuney]

I came to GA on a move with good old I've Been Moved (IBM) January 3, 1980 Moved into the house we live in now thinking we would be here 2 or 3 years. It will be 30 years 4 grown kids and 8 grand kids as of Jan 3, 2010.

I'm hiking SOBO starting on or about May 29 to hike "HOME".

[Tinker]

I came to GA on a move with good old I've Been Moved (IBM) January 3, 1980 Moved into the house we live in now thinking we would be here 2 or 3 years. It will be 30 years 4 grown kids and 8 grand kids as of Jan 3, 2010.

I'm hiking SOBO starting on or about May 29 to hike "HOME".

PM me before you head out. You just might need a translator :D. I've done from Katahdin down to mid New Jersey. If you have any questions give me a holler (Yankees would say "shout";)). I did the "Hundred Mile Wilderness" last fall, my most recent hike on the AT in New England.
I consider Richmond, Va. my adopted home since I lived there for 2 years while studying the Bible back in the 1970s.

[andrewan]

Hello Everyone,
Myself Andrewan, Introducing to the forum as a new member and i am very glad to be part of this forum. I love shopping, singing and playing guitar. I love nature and want to contribute to save it.

[Singin' Sal]

Hi. I am Singin' Sal and I'm brand new here. Been hiking for almost 35 years, including three plus weeks on the southern at starting at Springer years ago. I'm known as Singin Sal cause when I relax while hiking I tend to break out in merry songs and ballads. Some like it...and other don't. Ah well, what can I say?

Regards,
Singing' Sal

[cavalier]

Hello, Iam new here, I go by Cavalier and i love reading and talking about hiking.

[cgaphiker]

Hello, my name is Daryl and I love backpacking.
I am considering a thru hike this year or maybe next. I know this place is probably inundated with new hikers posting their dream of hiking the AT. It isn't a dream for me, I am considering it though, and there is a lot of great info here. Thanks, Daryl

[LittleBird]

Hi there! Pretty new to hiking, so any advice you want to give would be wonderful. <3 Hiked some of the NY AT, love it so much.

[Shovelhead]

Make sure you plan you hike well!!!!

[RoosterTail]

Well let me re-do this Hails I am from Salisbury NC I am training myself and planing to walk the at After I watched A PBS show were this guy walk the at My first post must seem Kinda of funny to most of you Sorry for making it.

[leaftye]

I guess I'll do a belated introduction too. My name is Eugene. I've loved hiking since forever, but I haven't done it for the last several years. Now is time for me to do some catching up. I've been wanting to do the PCT ever since I heard about it, which I think was back in 1994. I should've done it back then. I was in much better shape!

I'm definitely not an ultralighter. While I will adopt some of their ideas, I simply see that as a way to bring more toys on the trail. Eventually I'll get to the point where I'll be bringing a camp chair with me. Again. I'm totally serious. The toys make it fun for me, and that's pretty much what it's all about.

[oojackiepaperoo]

Check for 'Spidey Senses'.:)
hahaha im new wb too. my first thru-hike also!!! hope to see some of you on the trail. anyone starting in april?
:D

[Spatchka]

Recently retired, moved from the 'flat lands' to Tennessee.

On the slow,very slow, planning stage of getting back out and about.

Not used to all the trees yet...Dendrophobia?

Thanks for all the useful information.

[MyMonkey]

New member here. I am returning to hiking after a long Hiatus. Several surgeries had hampered my progress several years ago and I am now to the point where I need to get back in the proverbial game. :) I am planning a trip to section hike the AT south to north staring in 2011. I have read many great threads on the topic and there are tons of great starting points.

I am truly excited and have begun training. One major obstacle is my weight. :-? I am now pushing 280 and need to shed many of those unwanted pounds. I am hopeful that a strict regime of hikes and gym days will assist there. Thanks for such an informative forum. Glad to be here. :D

[Plankton]

New member here also, working up to a thru-hike this year. Still deciding whether to go southbound or northbound, southbound will give me more time to acquire gear and do a few test runs with my setup but of course its a harder hike.

Anyway, I'm really glad I found this site and backpackinglight.com. Chock full of great info and this site is my first place to look if I have questions about anything AP trail related.

Cheers

[berkshirebirder]

I'm a birder and wildflower enthusiast and hope to explore some sections of the Trail in New England this spring, starting in western MA--would welcome any advice on easy-to-moderate sections.

A friend and I met a number of friendly folks on short hikes on the Trail last year, including another birder--so that's inspired us to get back out there this year.

[Plankton]

I'm not too knowledgeable of the AP trail in this are but, there are some great hikes in the Mohawk trail state forest and the savoy mountain state forest. I recommend checking those areas out next time your near western mass looking for a hike :)

[berkshirebirder]

Thanks, Plankton. I have been on a few trails in both Mohawk Trail and Savoy and will return, for sure. Very interested in learning the trails at Greylock and where they intersect the AT as well as the stretch southward into CT.

Good luck on your hike!

[bummer72]

Greeting Hikers!!

My name is Doug, and I'm from Lancaster, PA. It's been a long time since I did any real hiking/backpacking, like since my teens in Scouts in the late '80s. Now my own son is in his teens, and we (okay, mostly I) want to get back out there!!!

First is to try to get a few overnighters under our belts, to work out the kinks of our old gear (I've resurrected my old, bright orange, aluminum external frame pack), as well as dive into some new ideas (I took advantage of the HH offer, and got myself the Explorer Ultralight, and the Scout for my son).

Though I haven't been backpacking in a long time, I have been camping...albeit in a pop-up camper, haha!!! The same thing that drove me from a tent into the camper is what steered me into the hammock camping arena; the desire to get off the ground!!! The difference now is I want to do something a bit more challenging, yet SIMPLER!!! Good grief there is a lot of "to do" that goes along with setting up a camper for a weekend. So the simpler life of communing with nature on a good long walk sounds healthy and healing to me.

As of now, my goals are modest; a couple of overnighters, maybe a long weekend. My mid term goal is to section hike the entire length of the AT in Pennsylvania...I know it doesn't sound like much to many of you folks, but for me in my complicated life, it is a real thrill. Long term goals are still to be determined....

Thanks to those who manage this site!!! I have learned much, hope to learn more, and am enjoying the friendly atmosphere. If anyone frequents the PA area, feel free to PM me.

Warmest regards,
Doug

[Tuney]

Welcome to White Blaze. You can learn a lot from everyone who participates here. You mentioned resurecting your 1980's vintage gear. I'm preparing to thru-hike starting in June. When I decided to do this last January, I figured since all my gear was nearly new I wouldn't need much in the way of gear to do the hike. As I started to get into it, I've been amazed at the progress that's been made in just the last 8-10 years in the development of lighter weight gear. I've trimmed almost 15 Lbs off of my pack by trading out the pack, sleeping pad, and tent. I could save a couple of more pounds by replacing my 10 year old down sleeping bag but haven't bellied up to the table for the cost yet.

May I suggest that you do some home work. You'll have a whole lot more fun if you go light weight.

At any rate enjoy your self. I certainly have over the years with my 3 sons (all Eagles).

[eddieinsc]

Met two hikers at Cane Gully camp, along the Swamp Fox passage of the Palmetto Trail. They told me about this forum. Started hiking again, after many years. Hiked 9 miles with an over-weight pack and paying dearly for it. Gotta get in better shape and lose some excess weight from body and pack. Looking forward to many more miles of hiking.

[tomsuper]

hello everyone.........thank you for being here, 1st time to this site and its really awesome, my goal is to thru-hike either this year or next, never attempted this prior. i think my trip just got easier. thanks

[70scamper]

Hello everyone!
Found this site and just had to say it looks great!
Spent over an hour sorting through the photos. Brought back some fine memories of when I hiked and camped here in South West Virginia.

[battendown]

Hello everyone.
New member long time lurker. I love this site and thanks to everyone who contributes. I dable in lightweight and hamoc backpacking. I have no money and alot of gear.:eek:

[trailangelbronco]

Hi everyone. I'm new too. It has been my dream to hike the AT since I was a kid growing up in Maine. I hiked the 100 mile wilderness in 1984. Then came college, Army, Marrige, kids, mortgage and all of that leading up to my current age of 44. I still dream of the trail, just cannot break away from life, lose my job, house and wife. Reading this board helps, and who knows, maybe someday I will win the lottery, divorce the wife, rent out the house and get to Springer.

Until then, I weekend hike in Idaho and read your stories with complete jealousy.

[Chummin' for Bear]

Hello to all. I have been enjoying this wonderful site for awhile and finally joined. Please be gentle with me while I learn the ground rules of posting messages in the proper place after ensuring questions are not already answered somewhere else. I have only hiked the NC/Tenn section of the AT and very small sections in GA and VA. I would love to thru hike someday, but until then, I will continue to section hike as time allows. Hoping to do Springer to Dick Creek Gap in May and maybe US-19E to Damasscus later this year.:)

[moondoggie]

Hello to all fellow hikers! 1st timer. I plan on thru-hiking AT starting March 2011. I am very exicited as this has been a lfelong dream of mine sine I was around 10 - 12 and read about AT in outdoor mag. I am 52 and just retired Postmaster (yippee!!!) My wife is so wonderful to allow me this opportunity and carry on with life at home (3 boys). Love this site

[vikcicle]

Hey guys, just signed up and thought I'd say hi. Planning a MEGA Thru-Hike for 2011. I'll definately be looking for some advice as the date approaches. Thanks in advance.

Vik

[Luke724]

Hello all, I am from Montgomery, Al. I am new to this site and am very excited about the information and friends I will gain here. I have hiked many of the trails here in Alabama and explored some of the Sipsey Wilderness. I am currently section hiking the Pinhoti long trail in Al/GA. I should be finished with the Al. section in two weeks. I anticipate thru hiking the Pinhoti-BMT-AT, starting early 2012, after graduation. I will use the search function properly, but I am sure I will ask a repetitive question now and then. Thanks for any information helpful to my hiking experiences.

[NEPilgrim]

Welcome, AddyMark! If you think anyone here is being rude or sarcastic, they probably are ;). Enjoy yourself!

~Steve.

[delitaagain]

Hi, my name is Delita, I'm a 59yo female newly living in a older RV in Raleigh, NC. I didn't learn to backpack until age 49, then got away from it when I gained too much weight to carry a pack or hike happily about 7 years ago. Now I've lost the weight and the bug is back. The old duds fit again and I still have my soda can stove and walmart grease can. Mostly just reading here, but collecting thoughts, links, etc. and thinking on plans, working up to a real day hike then maybe a 5-7 day. My day job is serving Jesus so planning to hike when I can. Glad to be here.

[Alien Grey 1972]

Wow this is the best informative site I have found yet about the trail. Planning on starting my Georgia section hike in June.

[Service Tech]

Hello all. My name is Patrck. I am a 40 year old male that is thinking about doing a through hike. I have hiked the Presedential range in NH and a few others in New England when I was at a camp in the 80's. I have also done some other trails here in VA. I have not done any serious hiking in 20 years, just working and living. There is so much info here on this site that it is going to take me a while to read it all. I will need to replace all of my gear as it has disappeared over the years. Thanks to all who have contributed and all who shall help me in the future to get out and do it.

[acousticmonk]

Hi everyone! I haven't really looked around the site too much as of yet, but as I am planning a thru-hike for 2011 I am sure to be spending a lot of time with you all for the next 8-9 months on here. Awesome that this site exists!!!!

[vlo]

Hi my name is vicky, I'm new to the hiking world and plan a thru hike the first part of April. Kinda seeking answers for the next season of life:) Looking forward to meeting you all!

[HiKen2011]

Welcome Vicky,

I plan to leave between April 2-5 myself. Look forward to seeing you out there.

Detour

[Adayak]

Just wanted to drop in and introduce myself. My name is David, and I've been lurking here for awhile. Signed up a couple of months ago but am just not getting active in posting here. Looking forward to sharing stories and getting to know some people.

[Scrambler]

Hey all!

I stumbled on this site while doing a AT search. Such a great place. I've been reading some of the journals from the folks on trail. I have always thought that hiking the AT would be my equivalent of a mountaineer climbing Everest. I would absolutely love to do it but right now I can't afford it. I'm thinking that 5 years might be a good goal. 2015! I wish I would have planned it earlier but it's never too late! One thing that has always stopped me is that fact that I'm a girl and my family would kill me for even thinking of hiking alone. (I mentioned it yesterday to my sis and she shot evil glares at me) So I have 5 years to research, prepare and find someone to join me. Meanwhile, if anyone is thru hiking and is in NJ, you just might find me with an occasional snack.

[MelNino]

Hello to all!!

While I have only done a small, small part of the trail here in CT (and wee bit in NH) I do love hearing tales of other peoples' hikes while dreaming of my own. One of these days I do hope do a thru-hike, but for now I will content myself with shorter hikes.

Maybe I'll hit up the Southern part of the trail after I finish the 4000'ers? :)

[AmonStone]

Greetings all!! Just thought that perhaps I should drop by and introduce myself.
My name Corey and I only recently became interested in hiking the AT. Hope the more experienced folk don't mind what could be at times some rather simple questions.
Oh, and thank you for having me.

[SerenitySeeker]

Greetings fellow travelers, My name is Barbara, I am 49, and I am planning my first section hike this fall, still looking for others who might also want to hike then and do so together. I also plan to do my first thru hike in 2011. Had the bug a couple years ago and made the error of getting sidetracked by work. I just spent the entire night here, and 2 other nights this past week, reading this sight and planning, digging out what gear i still have, making list and so forth. I havent done any deep woods hiking in 20 years and am amazed at how much time has passed. Looking forward to the journey with all of you.

[garmachi]

Howdy gang!

My first "hike" was a forced march at Parris Island in 1991, and after lugging a pack for 10 years, at some point I realized that I liked it! Enough so that I began doing it recreationally while I was in the Marines, and continued to do it once I became a civilian again. My best weekends are the ones I spend outdoors, and I've even been known to camp out in my backyard just for the joy of sleeping outside.

It's always been a dream of mine to thru hike, and I'm now at the point where my dream has turned into a goal. (The difference being that one has a plan, whereas the other does not!)

I found this site while looking for planning resources, and it looks like a great place!

Nice to be here, nice to meet you all, see you on the trails!

[wanna hike AT]

Hello everyone:banana My name is Tim, I look forward to hiking the A.T. soon...as a section hiker. I have read about the Trail in the past and am now ready to start my journey. I look forward to getting as much information as I can about hiking this beautiful natural resource from others of you that have made the hike. I also hope to make a few new friends along the way too.

[RETCW4]

I think WB threads have been hacked into by Manfried Kreuzwirth. He is pewing World of Warcraft stuff.

Tumbleweed

[fw2008]

I love this site! I am returning to hiking after several years away, and realizing all that I have missed. Not that the trails are going anywhere, but all the hiking I could have been doing to enjoy, and keep my body in tune.

I am so inspired now from all that I have read here, that I am currently making plans for a possible thru-hike starting in Feb 2011.

Thank you for creating such a great community!

FW

[Philetus]

Hey, folks. I've been skulking around in the shadows for a few days now, but I thought I'd stop by and introduce myself.

My name is Chopper, and while I'm now a flat-lander (Charleston, SC), I grew up in the shadow of the North Carolina sections of the AT (born in Hickory, but spent a lot a time growing up in the Boone/Blowing Rock areas, trips to Fontana and Hot Springs). So, now that I'm heading back to school in the fall, I'm going to have a few summers with nothing major planned. Sounds to me like a great time to section-hike the Trail.

My plan is to start on May 24 from Amicalola (driving up to Springer would have been easier, but I figured I'd stop and see the waterfall), and hopefully make Damascus, Va., by July 1. Then, if things work out, two months in 2011 and 2012. Who knows, maybe a SOBO thru-hike at some point after that. But let's make it to Damascus first.

[Bucherm]

Howdy all,

My name is Matt, and I made a late new years resolution to return to hiking on a regular basis after a decade-long hiatus(right about the time I stopped being involved with the Boy Scouts). This is mostly to get back in shape and have fun doing it, at the moment I have no plans to thru-hike the AT, although I am considering section-hiking the SNP next year. As it stands I'm currently doing local hikes in the DC area.

Went to Texas A&M right out of high school, I zigged when I should have zagged, ended up in the Navy, and now I'm a IT Contractor for a federal agency. Looking forward to being part of this community!

[crazyonelost]

Hello all, My name is Ron and I am from West Virginia and dream of doing the AT myself one day. Never know that dream may happen.

I have hiked several trails in Ohio,Wv and PA and still learning more each time I get out.
I am still learning the ropes here in the forums but what I seen is Awesome.

[hellsbells]

Hi all....I'm a gal who loves the outdoors. I could actually just sit in the middle of a forest and be perfectly happy- but that wouldn't really get the blood pumping, so I always end up hiking. Glad to be here and looking forward to learning from everyone. I'm an avid hiker, I'm mostly into day and weekend hikes because of my job, can't get away for much longer than that, but I love what it does for my mind and spirit and I would love to try and possibly section hike the AT at some point in the future. Thanks for all the info!

[Chaos_Being]

Hello, everyone!

My name is Keith, I'm 31, and I live fairly close to the AT in Maryland- about 45 minutes to an hour. I found this site around the beginning of the year, and have spent a lot of time reading this, and then Trailjournals (which I found mention of here.) I'm not sure why it took me this long to actually sign up, though... :o

I found this site while looking up local trail info, in particular information about the AT. I have admittedly had a facination for the AT for several years now. One day, I would love to do a thru-hike. In hindsight I now realize that the time to do this would have been while I was still in college about 10 years ago. I know I liked hiking and the outdoors then, but either I didn't know much about the AT then, or it just didn't occur to me. Either that, or my growing wish to just "get away from it all" while making myself into a functional member of society since then has been sparking my interest more and more- I don't know. Unfortunately, I can't realistically see myself having the ability to get away from work and my other mundane responsibilities for a while, although if I ever do get a chance before retirement, you can be sure that I'll be jumping on it :)

For now, I do day hikes whenever I have the time. I try to get out and hike every weekend, but haven't been out for the past few weeks. Luckily, there are a decent amount of trails near where I live, and I don't live too terribly far from the easternmost ridge of the Appalachians and the AT. As far as my experience with the AT goes, it is sadly (so far) limited. I hiked out to Annapolis Rocks about a month and a half ago, and I've hiked a few short portions of it in Shenandoah (the most recent being about a month ago while doing a Doyles Run Falls loop, which is also where I saw my first wild Black Bear! I've already read of some people here not seeing one on an entire thru-hike, so I count myself lucky.) In September, I'm going to do the "Lodge-to-Lodge" hike in Shenandoah and cover the central portion over the course of a few days. I'm really looking forwards to it! I also want to start doing some actual backpacking trips over the course of weekends or long weekends. I already have plenty of places that I've heard of on here that I want to see.

In terms of section hikes, I also want to do the MD portion sometime soonish, and then start filling in some other stretches in VA and PA. I'm going to have to get some actual decent gear...although I did buy a filter a while ago (hopefully I can actually get to use it soon ;) )

[Tinker]

Welcome, Chaos Being.
I know of two thruhikers who are members here that are from Md - Wrongway 2008 and Peanut. Maybe you can send them a personal message to see when they plan on getting out on the trail down your way.

[Chaos_Being]

That is a good idea. I've actually read through Peanut's trailjournal already :)

[nitegaunt]

I don't think I've introduced myself here but I've been reading the forum for a while. I live a few minutes from the trail in TN and have pretty much explored from Roan Mountain to Mt. Rogers over the years. I dayhike on the AT and other trails in the area regularly with a couple of friends and hope to do a thru hike in the next couple of years. Well, that's about it for now. I haven't posted much on here but I love to read everyone's posts. It's a great source for information on just about everything! Thanks.

[-Animal]

I’m finally getting around to doing what I have dreamed of- hiking the Appellation Trail. This site is a huge help to me in planing my 2011 nobo thru-hike. A huge thank you to all the knowledgeable people who post advice for a novice hiker like me. Hopefully I’ll make some friends and meet some of you on the trail.

[strollingalong]

Hey. Jake from England, living in Mexico City. Was planning on walking in 2011. pHaving to put it off to 2012 now.... can't wait!

[Firefighter503]

Hey all, Justin (24) from Northern VA. Have been talking about/reading about hiking the AT for some time now with my brothers, and am (hopefully) going to pull the trigger next year (with atleast one of them coming along with me). We are trying to start getting ready logistically now.

[BadAndy]

Hey all, Andy from Harrisburg, PA here checking in. Been an avid hiker for a while, spend tons of time on the AT around Harrisburg and central PA, mostly day hikes and overnights. I'm currently getting into more serious backpacking, you can find some of my silly newb posts in the gear sections. I plan to start sectioning the AT and hopefully someday have the time and resources to do a thru. Looking forward to meeting any central PA locals that might be here,

[Mr. Chic]

Hey everybody, just found this site I live in Jim Thorpe Pa about 20 minutes from the AT in several places and have never set foot on it. I know shame on me. :( I want to change that. I figured I would say hello. I am 36 and married with a 4 year old and a 2 year old boys. If anyone near me is looking for hiking buddies give me a shout. My wife and I wouldn't mind meeting some nice people. We are complete novices but I really want to get back out in thick of it. Sorry for the personal ad. Hope to learn some cool things here. :)

[Kelleelynn]

Hello! New to the site and looking forward to hiking the entire A.T. spring 2011 with my daughter, she will be 9 when we start. I am interested if anyone has done this with their children and any tips or suggestions you may have!

[hpato]

I'm in Buena Vista, VA, and a group of us are working to make our town more hiker-friendly. Have talked with the local AT club and numerous thru-hikers, but welcome any ideas or suggestions anyone else may have. We're about 9 miles off the AT and many of us give rides to hikers coming off the trail to re-supply or heading back to the trail. What else can we do to make hikers feel welcome?

[LeafAndStar]

Congratulations! You've just won a free obligatory introduction post! *fanfare*

We are Leaf and Star (respectively) and we've got the itch to do some walking. With any luck, our happy feet (at least at the start) will find their way onto the AT in 2011. We've been hiking and camping together for the past 5 wonderful years that we've been married but we haven't had the chance to do it as much as we want. Our friends and family all think we're nuts but they've been polite and supportive on the surface. I think it'll finally sink in when they don't hear from us for weeks at a time or get that first postcard in the mail!

Well, thanks for listening, hope to see you all around when we get to asking real questions.

[Sergemaster]

Greetings all,
Although I have yet to hike the AT, I plan on doing this sometime in the near future. In the meantime, I have been an avid hiker for a few years and look forward to each weekend when I can keep on trucking by trekking!!

I find this site a plethora of information, and very inspiring indeed. I am looking forward to the knowledge that I will take away with each login and new post.

Cheers,
Serge

[Tennessee]

Hi all!
I need all the advice I can get!
I'm ready to finally start my adventures on the AT!
Looking forward to chatting with you all soon!

<3 Tennessee

[emerald]

For a wealth of information, click on the link and white blazes below.

[Special-K]

hello, new here. just saying hey and i appreciate this site. hiking A.T. this up comping March 2011. hope to gain much knowledge and friends.

[Old River Rat]

Hello to all members of this forum. I am new to hiking and backpacking but I am not new to camping. In the past, I was able to load my truck with ice chests, lanterns, gallons of water and all of the comforts of home. I am now exploring backpacking and it is fascinating, to say the least. A great deal of knowledge is necessary to pursue this endeavor. I am close to retirement and hopefully will be meeting you on the trail starting in 2013. So, I have a while to research and train. My main concern now is water. I am researching a good filter. I am close to choosing the Katadyn Pocket. My question is, is filtering enough? Or, do you need to also chemically treat? Has anyone fell sick from filtering alone? Katadyn says in North America the Pocket is all you need because there are no water borne viruses, but I would like to hear from some of you about this. I also am very interested in hammocking. The Clark NX-150 looks real good to me. Maybe I will find answers already posted on this forum but I am new at this also and do not know how to look just yet. Thank you all.

I am no where near in shape for the Appalachians. I am going to start small and flat here in Louisiana and work my way up. I have always loved the

[Old River Rat]

I have always loved the mountains and I feel I am going to really enjoy this activity. Take care.

[Turkey Sandwich]

Hi there,

My name is Connor. I've always loved hiking, though I've never really had any experience backpacking or camping. I've lived in Pawling, NY all my life, and the AT is only 2 minutes away from my house (I may have even given one or two of you a lift into town), so my brother and I have been planning a thru hike for a while now.

In poking around for information, I came across this site and have read many of the articles and prep tips, so I figured I'd introduce myself and ask a few more questions. Our plan is to begin in late February or early March of next year, because I start graduate school in the third week of August. That gives us about 5 and a half months to complete it. We're both in fairly good shape and my brother does have some backpacking experience, so my question is: is this a reasonable enough goal? If we were to take a few less zero days and pick up the mileage, would we be able to finish by August without being thoroughly miserable? Also, if we're starting that early, I'm guessing we'd need two sets of some gear, for warm and cold weather. Is that correct?

Any opinions are appreciated. Thanks, and I hope to learn a lot more from this site before I set out.

[Cookerhiker]

Hi there,

My name is Connor. I've always loved hiking, though I've never really had any experience backpacking or camping. I've lived in Pawling, NY all my life, and the AT is only 2 minutes away from my house (I may have even given one or two of you a lift into town), so my brother and I have been planning a thru hike for a while now.

In poking around for information, I came across this site and have read many of the articles and prep tips, so I figured I'd introduce myself and ask a few more questions. Our plan is to begin in late February or early March of next year, because I start graduate school in the third week of August. That gives us about 5 and a half months to complete it. We're both in fairly good shape and my brother does have some backpacking experience, so my question is: is this a reasonable enough goal? If we were to take a few less zero days and pick up the mileage, would we be able to finish by August without being thoroughly miserable? Also, if we're starting that early, I'm guessing we'd need two sets of some gear, for warm and cold weather. Is that correct?

Any opinions are appreciated. Thanks, and I hope to learn a lot more from this site before I set out.

Welcome to WhiteBlaze.:welcome You may want to re-post your questions by starting a thread in a specific forum. I recommend the thruhikers forum (here) (http://www.whiteblaze.net/forum/forumdisplay.php?f=21) since you're contemplating a thruhike. Starting a thread is easy - just click on "New Thread." Or you can first browse through existing threads and latch onto one that's similar to your questions. Have a good hike!

[snorz]

happy to be aboard!

[ki0eh]

Hey all, Andy from Harrisburg, PA here checking in. Been an avid hiker for a while, spend tons of time on the AT around Harrisburg and central PA, mostly day hikes and overnights. I'm currently getting into more serious backpacking, you can find some of my silly newb posts in the gear sections. I plan to start sectioning the AT and hopefully someday have the time and resources to do a thru. Looking forward to meeting any central PA locals that might be here,

:welcometo WB! Sorry I had missed this post earlier. What makes you "Bad"? Are you in SATC?

[bert304]

Hello everyone


New to hiking and to this Forum. I started hiking with my 3 kids here in Berks county about 2 months ago. I only live 15 miles from the AT at Port Clinton. Trying to figure out what I need for a weekend getaway with the 2 older children thinking of hiking from Port Clinton going north to the Pinicale.

[ki0eh]

Hello everyone


New to hiking and to this Forum. I started hiking with my 3 kids here in Berks county about 2 months ago. I only live 15 miles from the AT at Port Clinton. Trying to figure out what I need for a weekend getaway with the 2 older children thinking of hiking from Port Clinton going north to the Pinicale.

Hi there!

We hiked from 183 to 501 on an overnighter with 2 6 yo's last year and that worked out fairly well with the fine Hertlein Campsite (especially fine if it gets hot again with that very cold swimming hole nearby). The 501 Shelter is even kinda interesting as a wait stop for the group to catch up to each other again at the end.

Port Clinton north to the Pinnacle is a mob scene north of the Hamburg Reservoir and limited camping due to much of the area being in the Hamburg watershed.

[bert304]

Thanks I will look at the map from 183 to 501. I was looking to try the overnight camp with my 9 year old girl and my 5 year old boy.

I need to make one correction I should have said was I am new to hiking with my kids. I have hiked the AT in NJ and Maine about 20 years ago. It is totally different with small children. I finally found something that I can do with my kids all together even with their age difference between them.

[Tinker]

Hi, Bert, welcome to Whiteblaze.:) I started hiking with my son (actually, he started hiking, or walking) when he was 4 years old. Before he turned 5 he had climbed 4 mountains over 4,000 ft. with me (and sometimes my wife).
The biggest problem I had was keeping him hydrated. He didn't like the energy drinks that I used so sometimes I had to bring Kool-Aid. I learned that when he said that he was tired he was actually more dehydrated, so we would sit and look and listen to nature around us while we had a good long drink together. Candy is also a great thing to bring for kids, as is fruit leather (which I liked better than he did :D).
Family meals were the highlight of my hiking days when he was young. Bring familiar comfort foods for the kids. That will go a long way to making hiking and camping fun.

[EzeeR]

Just joined after a day of gleaning info...great site!
Just returned from Baxter and the White mountains...awesome....

There is currently a movement to return Katahdin's name to the original Abenaki Native American name which is translated as "greatest mountain". It is gramatically incorrect and a misinterpretation of the Abenaki translation to precede Katahdin with either Mount or Mt.. Please help to continue to honor the greatest mountain and Native American traditions by referencing the begining of the AT as "Katahdin".

EzeeR

[bert304]

Happy to meet you

[CatchUp]

Hello Everyone!!!

I have been an outdoors-person for practically all my life. Dabbled here and there every summer in camping, horseback riding and day-hiking.

I went on the AT for my first "real" hike with my sister and friend on Sunday - round trip about 7 miles. Needless to say - I absolutely fell in love with the trail.

We met a few section hikers at the Peter's Moutain shelter and they were really an inspiration. Very patiently answered my many, many questions and totally gave me the confidence that I can do this. I have been seriously considering working myself up to the big thru-hike.

I love this site and all the forums, I've been lurking for two days straight, and soon will be posting in other forums!!!!

XOXOXO

[Driver8]

Hi Everyone! I'm a newbie to the Trail, have hiked about 8.5 miles of it in the Southern Taconics - Bear Mtn from Undermountain and back, and Everett NOBO from Race Brook Trail thence to Elbow Trail and back down, and then Everett SOBO from Guilder Pond Picnic Area to foot of Bear and then old Northwest Road to CT/MA stateline parking.

My friend and professional colleage, Jay, and I and his son, have gotten into hiking this summer. I'd hiked a fair amt in 2006-2008 (did Bear via Undermtn in Sept 2006 - got caught in a thunderstorm, complete with hailstones, at the summit!), and mostly on Metacomet and neighboring trails in Hartford area. This year, Jay, his son and I have done AT a few times, Sleeping Giant trails in Hamden, CT a time or two, and a few Metacomet and Mattabessett hikes. We're heavy guys hiking our way to better fitness. I, for one, have about 75-80 lbs yet to lose, have lost about 20-25. Exercise a lot at gym and golf now and then, but nothing firms one up like a good 6+ hour hike!

I chose my s/n b/c I've long enjoyed REM, love the song Driver 8, and think the lyrics apropos:

"Driver 8 take a break, We've Been On This Trip Too Long,
And the train conductor says, 'Take a break, Driver 8,
Driver 8 take a break, we can reach our destination,
But it's still a ways away.'"

Well, I've just started on my journey. See myself more as a section hiker and weekender, taking the trail in pieces, perhaps never completing the whole thing. Venturing out, as fitness improves and sight range, to the Rockies, to the Pacific Crest Trail, heckfire, if the time and place are right, to the Alps and maybe the Pyrenees. Who knows what adventures lie around the corner? All I know is that I have found a passion which is putting some nice wind in my sails, and I like the feeling that goes, for me, with the AT, with hiking and with the magic that lies in both.

I've lurked here for a few days and read a lot of threads, have already begun to learn and profit by so much smarts, insight and experience of others here. I hope to continue to do so and to contribute some useful bits along the way.

As the yogis say, namaste'.

-Driver 8

[Driver8]

There is currently a movement to return Katahdin's name to the original Abenaki Native American name which is translated as "greatest mountain". ... Please help to continue to honor the greatest mountain and Native American traditions by referencing the begining of the AT as "Katahdin".

Most people I've talked about the Trail with - either on or near it or back in "civilian" land, just call it Kathadin already. In time, this usage will likely prevail. Is there a bill pending before the Maine legislature or a formal movement by the ATC or petition before the NPS? If there's a petition or letter-writing or e-mail drive, pls let us know!

[Driver8]

I went on the AT for my first "real" hike with my sister and friend on Sunday - round trip about 7 miles. Needless to say - I absolutely fell in love with the trail.

Hi CatchUp - looks like you and I have been bitten by the same bug! Nice affliction! :) Happy Trails to you.

-Driver 8

[csnow]

Thanks,
I'm very new to this tool and not very proficiant yet. Old school I guess---- we used to have to come off the trail to communicate phone mail yell etc.

[clifton delacruz]

newer----me.
haha hello every guys

[GAWill]

Hello to all

Im testing the waters to see if or when i want to try a thru hike. I have hiked parts of the trail in GA, and done eighty miles in New Mexico. Any and all tips welcome!

Will

[mi77915]

Hi everyone,

I an fairly new to hiking (just started a few months ago). I currently are taking short day hikes in my local area (Michigan). I hope to join in on some of the great threads that I have been reading here in the past few days or so. My goal, is to take a 2 week vacation next year and join up with some of the members from here and hike a short section the AT for the 2 weeks that I will be available to hike. Not sure what part to try first, I'll figure that out as time goes on.

Thanks for reading,

Tom

[northernstorm]

Hello to all

Im testing the waters to see if or when i want to try a thru hike. I have hiked parts of the trail in GA, and done eighty miles in New Mexico. Any and all tips welcome!

Will
how did you feel after the eighty miles?

[northernstorm]

Hi everyone,

I an fairly new to hiking (just started a few months ago). I currently are taking short day hikes in my local area (Michigan). I hope to join in on some of the great threads that I have been reading here in the past few days or so. My goal, is to take a 2 week vacation next year and join up with some of the members from here and hike a short section the AT for the 2 weeks that I will be available to hike. Not sure what part to try first, I'll figure that out as time goes on.

Thanks for reading,

Tom
anything in VT and ME is real thrilling in my opinion.

[jamec9869]

Hi ! I'm Jame
I've just visited this forum. Happy to get acquainted with you. Thanks.

[IronGutsTommy]

we americans take pride in our grammatical liberties. like rbi means runs batted in but we always say he had 3 RBIs. atm means automatic teller machine, yet ppl refer to them as ATM machines. its our god given right to be repetitve. Besides, MT Katahdin (haha) is by and by considered the END of the trail, not the beginning, at least for the vast majority.... i wonder if theres any ATM machines close to Mt Katahdin...

[ZeroLozen]

Hello. new to the site. Frequenter of Hammock Forums.

[red dawg]

Um, uh, hello? Am I supposed to introduce meself here first? Man! I screwed that up!

[red dawg]

I got an itch (I don't think it is contagious) about a month ago to section hike the GA part and then see where it leads me (um, to NC?). My group of four starts at Springer next weekend. Really looking forward to it!

[lenco12]

Thank you my Angel, Saint, Hero, your cookies are great. I would move to the wonderful town of Waynesboro, where I've left all my worldly possessions unguarded at the Y three times, but I wouldn't want to lower the property values.
Just signed-up yesterday and wanted to say "hello" to all.
I am fairly new to hiking, although, I've probably hiked many inconsistant miles through the years.
I reside a mile or so from the trail. An area near the NY/NJ border referred to as Stairway to Heaven. I am fortunate to live in a beautiful area and have recently begun discovering it through hiking.
This site seems like a wealth of information and was lucky enough to stumble upon it while searching for info on "The Secret Shelter".
Thanks for offering such a well organized place for info and experienced discussion.
Glad to be here.

[4eyedbuzzard]

:welcome to WB

[TURK79]

Hey everyone just joined and wanted to say hello. Trying to get information about hiking the AT and got lots of questions but i'll see where the search takes me first.

[Poodles!]

So I guess this is hello Whiteblaze. Just wanted to say that this forum/community has an amazing amount of info and support for those planning a thru.

Thanks to all of your contributers.

[onecamper]

Hello whiteblazers, from Virginia, this is a great site and I've very much enjoyed reading here. A big thanks to all of you responsible for sharing info on thru hiking. I'm a camper in the more traditional family camping sense and recognize backpacking as the purest form of camping. I've been working to lighten up in hopes of doing a thru of SNP, for starters, this winter. The advice found here has been very helpful.

[Bettendorf]

Hello, everyone. I want to hike the trail next year. I'll be spending a lot of time on this in the meantime. Thanks for having me.

[SectionHiker2011]

Greetings from Eastern NC,

I've been lurking for the past month or so, I thought I should go ahead and make it official. So far I have learned quite a bit that should come in handy as I start section hiking next year. It's been over 10 years since I did any hiking. Even then I knew I wanted to do the whole trail, so I figured I might as well get to it.

Happy hiking

[Plodderman]

Love the forum and appreciate the hard work by those who make it possible.

[Fats]

I just wanted to say hello, and thank you for all of the information on this site. This ends my session of lurking, you have been warned. :eek:

Brad

[NCcummins]

Hello Everyone,

I just joined the site and have already learned more then I expected!

I go to school in Johnson City, TN at ETSU and also live in Asheville, NC on the weekends. I'm a Junior and plan on taking this coming fall of as well as next spring to thru-hike the AT. I have wanted to do it for some time now since my later years of high school, and figured while I have the time and funds to do it, I should take advantage of it.

I'm originally from Maine and have hiked Katahdin many times. I have backpacked out west a few times as well. I have never hiked any part of the AT for more then a day but plan to do a few day hikes before March.

Look forward to the information to be learned on this site.

Thanks,

-Chris

[joe cool]

I would like to say hello to all. I am a newbie and willing to learn from my fellow hickers.seh you around march on the trail (nobo ) joe cool

[jerseydave]

New to the site, new to hiking..... enjoying both.

Just did my first AT hike last weekend from DWG to Sunfish and back.
Loved it!

Plan on doing several day hikes till I do all of NJ, then branching out into neighboring states.
I've got lots to learn, but look forward to the education.
Thanks for teaching!

JD

[Boothill]

Hi all

been lurking the forums for the better part of a month now and am very impressed with all the knowledge and information to be found here, i have barely scratched the surface and already know a 1000 times more than i did

i live in the the Black Hills of South Dakota (Spearfish) and have been an outdoors person since the tender age of 6 months old when my parents took me camping for the very first time, haven't missed a year of camping since (43 years) sheesh i'm getting old :)

haven't really done any long distance hiking but do manage to get out pretty much every week for day hikes usually 7-15 miles every week, atleast weather permitting, the winters can get pretty bad here, both in snow accumulation and temp. last year we got approx 200 inches of snow and that puts a bit of a crimp in the hiking, just got our first snowfall of the season last night, just a skiff though

found the forum because my gf and i are in the pre-planning stages of maybe try to thru hike the AT, hopefully we can pull it off, seems a daunting challenge......guess that's most of the allure for me

anyways just wanted to say "hi" and hopefully i will be able to add something to the great forum and community you have here

brian

[nopain]

great job !!!!! i had so much fun,,:banana:banana:banana:banana:sun:sun:-?

[mikeyboy]

can anyone point me to very, helpful winter hiking sites, videos and resources? i have been using google and i haven't found one very good comprehensive site.

in addition, can anyone tell me if the AT has been thru-hiked in the winter?

[curryfingersnik]

I am so happy to have found this site as there is so much wonderful information. I am still reading through all the great content on the site, and welcome anyone who can direct me to messages discussing winter hiking on the AT. Thanks.

-NRG
greenattrek.blogspot.com

[LoneRidgeRunner]

I just found this site yesterday and have spent considerable time here and joined today. I have been reading in the forum and have thoroughly enjoyed the interaction so decided to do some interacting myself. I haven't yet did an AT thru hike but surely will someday. I have spent some time on the AT in the Great Smokey Mountains which I only live about 130 miles from.
I found this site while browsing the web for info. on the AT and have found that about anything and every thing you may want to know about it can be found right here from shelter locations, hostels, (which I didn't know existed and assumed than any off trail stays would have to be in expensive hotels). Services provided at the various hostels, good jumping off points for re-supply, laundry, etc. I think it's possible to plan a hike entirely from this website. Well done to the creators of this site!

[Nizhoni]

Hello White Blaze,

I really enjoy this site! I have visited WB a lot and finally decided to join!! Hope to chat with ya'll soon!! So far we have hiked part of the AT in Ga.....but we plan on finishing the 20miles that are left and starting the AT in NC sometime this month. Hopefully we won't freeze our butts, aww the beauty of being a newbie means you learn as you go ;-) Wish us luck!!

[cedarfork]

Christian hiker, senior citz, doing section hikes, presently ready to do the fontana dam leg after leaving natahala gorge, will head for great smoky mt. leg next, ex teacher, just want to meet other hikers ,nc resident. cedarfork

[Cookerhiker]

Christian hiker, senior citz, doing section hikes, presently ready to do the fontana dam leg after leaving natahala gorge, will head for great smoky mt. leg next, ex teacher, just want to meet other hikers ,nc resident. cedarfork

Welcome to WB Cedarfork.:welcome Since you're new here and probably still learning the site, here's a forum - "Hooking Up" - where you can advertise for hiking partners. Happy Trails!

http://www.whiteblaze.net/forum/forumdisplay.php?f=73

[ChillyWilly]

Name's Bill. I'm a retired Navy combat-camera guy, working just enough now to buy some gear and put a little away for a long hike. I'm a ski patroller in the winter, and I backpack, sail, geocache and ride motorcycles the rest of the year. Been generally engaged in the outdoors all my life. Been thinking about a thru-hike for several years, and have recently gotten more serious about it. Been reading everything I can get my hands on, making lists, checking them thrice... My partner, Mary and I are planning for a 2012 Nobo hike starting mid-March. See you in the forums!

[CrumbSnatcher]

Welcome to WB Chilly Willy

[ashleigh22]

Hello everyone! I am new to the forums, but I think this is a great website! Merry Christmas everyone! My fiance and I have yet to hike the AT, but hope to do so in 2012 if funds are sufficient. Bringing the pup, Aliyah. This seems like a great place to gain information and of course keep feeding the fire! The bug has been with me for awhile, and boy am I itchin'! Thanks for the forums! =)

Happy trails to you!

[4eyedbuzzard]

Welcome and Merry Christmas to all the new members :welcome

[blackwater slim]

Really have enjoyed this site from afar--hiked in and now am one on the inside.
Hiked from Amicallola to Neels Gap back in October. Plan to go back in at Neels Gap and go to NC this Spring.

I added an update on the Black Creek Trail in MS through the Black Creek Wilderness Section. Info was hard to find..Not a lot of hiking down here near the Gulf Coast but the Black Creek section I hiked was great..I thought it needed to be added.

[blackwater slim]

And Oh!...Merry Christmas!!

[Tinker]

Name's Bill. I'm a retired Navy combat-camera guy, working just enough now to buy some gear and put a little away for a long hike. I'm a ski patroller in the winter, and I backpack, sail, geocache and ride motorcycles the rest of the year. Been generally engaged in the outdoors all my life. Been thinking about a thru-hike for several years, and have recently gotten more serious about it. Been reading everything I can get my hands on, making lists, checking them thrice... My partner, Mary and I are planning for a 2012 Nobo hike starting mid-March. See you in the forums!

I'm not sure whether you're aware that you can buy synthetic underwear with a windproof front panel (in response to your forum name). :D

:welcome

[rookiehiker]

Hi all. I've just started hiking within the last year, and did my first(very small) section,Raven rocks, in October. I plan to do more of course in the upcoming years. I just found the board in the last week. I'm looking for information and to keep up with what is happening on the AT.

[Trailryder42]

Hi all. I'm a retired Firefighter trying to figure out what the heck to do with all my time now. I've always enjoyed hiking. Never done any long distance treks tho. Not much in the way of that in the Texas Panhandle.

This September I spent a month traveling the east coast states by motorcycle. Rode the length of the Blueridge Parkway and Skyline Drive. It was while camping along there that I had the opportunity to hike short pieces of the AT that ran close to the Parkway. That gave me the bug. I found you thru a Hammock Forum that I just joined.

The last week or so I've been perusing the forums here as a guest. I've been trying to educate myself on the gear recommended, etc. Found a recommendation for the awol AT Guide and ordered it. Figured I'm getting serious enough about a hike that should go ahead and join the forum.

Currently, I'm thinking about a late March 2012 effort. That will give me time to acquire gear, knowledge and work on my conditioning. I look forward to spending a lot of time here between now and then.

[ERNIEK]

My name is Ernie. I am retired Navy and teach Navy JROTC at a local high school. It is great to find a site with so much info. The wife and I started hiking/back packing this past summer and love it. We have done a couple of over nighters on the AT here in the TN/NC area. Hope to expand on those this coming year. Looking forward to getting involved here. HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!

[FatherTime09]

Hello everyone, Father Time from 2009 here. Finally done with my ongoing traveling that the AT started, for now. Settled down 15 minutes from the AT (James River crossing) here in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains. The AT has inspired me so much that my wife, Muscles, and I want to start a hostel down here and serve the trail the rest of our days! Hoping to open in the next few years! Congrats btw to all our friends who finished the trail! You are all badasses!

[Sickmont]

Greetings, all. The name's Chris, and i've had a thru-hike on my bucket list for a while now. I've been dreaming about just going for a really long walk in the woods since rocks were soft actually. I'm finally starting to get serious about it now. Possibly a 2012 North bound(depends on how much dinero i can hoard for it though). I'm going to go and do a section hike this summer sometime in GA for my vacation, if only because Springer mountain is about 9 hours away from here and i've got some friends i can stay with in Atlanta while i'm up that way as well. I really wish i had found this forum much earlier. It seems some details of the hike are a bit fuzzy, and i've been picking up quite a bit just by reading Trail Journals and now here. Boy, i can't wait to "get away from it all". Cheers!

[Sonno]

Hello! :D

I'm Steve. A buddy of mine and I are planning a thru-hike SoBo in 2012, tentatively so far (that's what we keep telling ourselves). We've both complete n00bs and are itching to get started! So far, I think we're on step 5 of 2346987657... we'll get there eventually. :P

Looking forward to talking to you all soon!

[ddanko2]

How's it going everyone? My name's Dan, and have been reading for quite some time now before joining. I'm planning a NOBO hike in 2012, and have been researching ever since I committed to the hike next year! Hope to see you all out there!

[ellonk]

Hi, my husband and I are taking the teenage kids to Maine this summer. My one son has fallen in love with the Appalachian Trail and we would like to incorporate a little of this into our vacation. Is this possible? We have no set destination as of yet. We will be driving from Cincinnati, Ohio. Are there any family friendly trails, sites etc. Please remember, we are newbies. Thanks for any input.:o

[ged123]

would just like to say hi to every one.. new to the forum and looking forward to finding out lot more about the trial...... ged

[Vinya]

hallo everyone..I'm Vinya (but Erin is also perfectly acceptable). hoping to hike the AT with my brother in 2012 after I finally graduate with my biology degree. Thus far, my only worry is student loan deferment :x Hoping to meet some folks here and get some insight on the trail (and gear). Nice to meet all of you ^_^

[actate]

I've been lurking for several months, but I figured now would be a good time to introduce myself. I'm the aforementioned brother of Vinya, and am looking forward to taking on the AT in 2012. See you on the trail!

[Cedar]

Hi there!

Through hiking the Long Trail, AT, and PCT have always been dreams of mine, and now that I have turned 40 I figure might as well get off my duff and get going.

I grew up in Southern California, hiking solo, also with friends and family in the Los Padres National Forest, San Rafael Wilderness. Condor country, got to see some of them before they were captured (for their benefit...)

Spent a lot of time hitchhiking around Northern California and Oregon, spent 5 months out in a tepee, chopping wood and carrying water. Did a memorable 5 day snow shoe winter camping trip in Oregon.

Longest trail time was 21 days in the Mazatzal wilderness area, Arizona.

In the last 8 years I have been in Texas. Do most of my hiking up in Arkansas, in the Buffalo River area around Ponca. Tim Ernst puts out an awesome trail guide for the area, have done many of the hikes over the years. Gorgeous country, very rural.

Now that my career has ended due to a lay off I am back to working hourly at a backpacking store here in Arlington Texas. Perfect set up for a Thru Hike! :D

Looking forward to reading through the forum and interested in learning as much as I can from others stories and experiences.

I am planning a thru hike of the Long Trail this year, 2011. I want to thank the Green Mountain Club for the awesome response to my e-mail, and to all of the nice people who have sent their advice and well wishes! 2012 looking at hiking the AT...

:sun

Matt

[davenc]

Hi all!. Im Dave and I got the itch after watching a documentary in early 2010. I have recently left a very unhappy job and have started school. I won't be finished with the semester until early may so thru hiking wont be possible this year. Furthermore I know so little about how to actually go about the whole thing. I want to be prepared but my spirit seems to be saying hurry up.
I'm 33 and feel like I've done little with my life. I don't want to spend the rest of it preparing for something and never do it. I guess maybe it's my nature to make things difficult for myself but that seems to be how a function. Maybe the preparation for the hike will be a lesson in patience. I just have to break free very soon. I almost feel like my life depends on it. I may post this in another area as I wouldn't mind some feedback. Glad to be here!!

[Tinker]

Hi all!. Im Dave and I got the itch after watching a documentary in early 2010. I have recently left a very unhappy job and have started school. I won't be finished with the semester until early may so thru hiking wont be possible this year. Furthermore I know so little about how to actually go about the whole thing. I want to be prepared but my spirit seems to be saying hurry up.
I'm 33 and feel like I've done little with my life. I don't want to spend the rest of it preparing for something and never do it. I guess maybe it's my nature to make things difficult for myself but that seems to be how a function. Maybe the preparation for the hike will be a lesson in patience. I just have to break free very soon. I almost feel like my life depends on it. I may post this in another area as I wouldn't mind some feedback. Glad to be here!!

Welcome, Dave.
A lot of us have been through what you're going through. Some folks settle down, others never do. I'm in between. The only stable thing in my life is my family and church. I couldn't care less about how much money I make (except that I can't always afford the latest and greatest gear).
It's a catch 22. If you settle down and get a good high paying job your job ends up owning you and you usually can't get out to hike much unless you have a good vacation package. If you get a low paying job you don't value it much and if things don't go your way you can quit without much regret, but you might not have enough money saved to hike for long after you do.
I've mostly held menial jobs my whole life, even though I value education and knowledge. I don't need much in life so I don't work any harder than I have to.
Keep your eyes open for good used gear and you won't have to spend too much to start out. Come to one of the hiker get togethers and get to know some of us face to face. After that you can probably use the "hooking up" forum to do some hikes with Whiteblaze folks.
You're still young. Don't rush life. Let it come to you.
Peace

[ChillyWilly]

Hi all!. Im Dave and I got the itch after watching a documentary in early 2010. I have recently left a very unhappy job and have started school. I won't be finished with the semester until early may so thru hiking wont be possible this year.

Hi Dave. Take a look around this site and read up on southbound hikes. The typical schedule for those hiking from Maine to Georgia just might match yours.

[wi0v]

I just joined today. I am 68 and planning on a week next summer. My son and grandson are going along with me. Hope they don't have to carry me. Hi Hi
Nice site, lots of information

[Delta-Dawn]

Quick hello to the Board. My name is Dawn and I am planning a SOBO for July '11. I have lurked for a while but finally came on board. Look forward to meeting others. :)

[Tinker]

Quick hello to the Board. My name is Dawn and I am planning a SOBO for July '11. I have lurked for a while but finally came on board. Look forward to meeting others. :)
Here's wishing you a great hike.
July 11 is my wedding anniversary (30 years this July). :)

[Tinker]

Here's wishing you a great hike.
July 11 is my wedding anniversary (30 years this July). :)

Ok, now that I've read your other post here, I'm rereading this one. July '11 isn't the same as July 11 :rolleyes:. I need to read more carefully.:o

[Delta-Dawn]

Ok, now that I've read your other post here, I'm rereading this one. July '11 isn't the same as July 11 :rolleyes:. I need to read more carefully.:o

LOL :o It's all good. Thanks for the welcome! :)

[StarLyte]

I just joined today. I am 68 and planning on a week next summer. My son and grandson are going along with me. Hope they don't have to carry me. Hi Hi
Nice site, lots of information

There's many folks out there your age and older.

Take your time and enjoy every step - every moment.

My 12 yr old granddaughter hikes with me and loves it. I've taken her everywhere but New England.

Tell the grandchild to log daily: day, starting point (mileage/marker)-ending, weather, wildlife, meals, miles hiked per day, etc. Years later he will read that and be blessed.

Have fun whatever you do !

[Tiger123]

hi, i'm new here~

[Irisheyes]

Hi, my name is Susan....and I've never been backpacking...but I really want to try it. I'm a mom to a 4yr old with special needs...so thru hike is out of the question right now, as I could not leave him for 6 months, but I hope to try some shorter treks soon. Love the site, great information!

[ClayTurner]

Hello from the Missouri Ozarks, this is the first time I have posted on this forum. I would like to thank everyone for the knowledge I have gained from White Blaze. I have been backpacking for about three years now, and use a lot of things that I learned about here. Backpacking led to trail building/maintaining, hammock hanging, weighing things, and an appreciation for stoves made from cans. I am section hiking the Ozark Trail and the Ozark Highlands Trail now, but will be out on the AT in the near future.

[zombiegrad]

A big hello to everyone! I'm new to the forum and glad to find a knowledgeable and ever-expanding community here. I hope to join the AT ranks this spring, an opportunity I never would have imagined possible a couple months ago. I'm a grad student taking a year off from school to decompress from the academic rat race and to work out some personal growth goals. I'm seeking some solitude for getting to know myself better, as well as a deeper connection to and respect for nature. If I make some solid friendships along the way, that's icing on the cake!

I've never backpacked, so I'm not even sure what my limitations are. I've got a budget and I'm doing a ton of research and testing. For now, I'm going to do some local dayhikes and overnights to get some trail wisdom. I'm from Texas and got Big Bend in my backyard! I haven't decided what part of the trail I want to do, or even if I want to tackle the lot. I was thinking of volunteering with AT Conservancy--maybe I could section hike my way there. I'm open to possibilities right now!

I know I'll get some great information here and looking forward to getting to know many of you! ~zombiegrad

[timmy]

:jumpMe and my dad are new. We want to know what to bring on our first trip. We know what type of backpack and shoes to bring but what else should we bring? We live in NC and we're doing section hiking. Where do you think we should start, also?

timmy

[fanlynne]

Hello,i am new learner here,hope to learn more from you,from this forum..........

[coppertex]

A lurker coming out of hiding! Been hiking for a few years now with plans to thruhike when my 7 year old son is old enough to either want to come with me or off to college!

[Marisa242]

Hello everyone. I am new to this site and looking forward to really digging into it more. I live in Charlotte, NC and since I have moved here I have really got into hiking. I just recently lost my hiking buddy (not to a death or anything) So I am really looking forward to meeting new people to go out and enjoy nature and hiking. Please feel free to contact me and I hope to meet and chat with you on future hikes.

[Solrider]

Hi everyone! My name is Heidi and I'm from Phoenix, Arizona. I've been a long time supporter and member of the Appalachian Trail Conservancy with the dream of thru hiking it someday. I'm hoping that day will be in 2012, if we all live that long. ;)

Anywho, I came across this website in one of my random google searches and I'm so glad I did! I'm currently working on completing the Arizona Trail by sections and hoping to spend the next few years getting through the Colorado and Pacific Crest trails as well.

So hi!

[DarkBunny]

Hello to all fellow hikers,

Coming out of lurkdom to introduce myself as I am getting ready to ask some questions as I prepare for my hike, starting this summer, 2011. Starting out in sections but planning to thru-hike when my youngest daughter starts college (gives me a good 14 years to get ready!)

I live in middle Tennessee and have been making great use of our state parks here, planning my first section hike starting at Springer Mountain and going about 80 miles up the AT this coming August. Looking forward to seeing what the AT is all about and proving that I can do it.

Glad to be here and have enjoyed reading all the posts.:)

DarkBunny (Ernie)

[mountainpass]

In 1992 I walked 800 miles north then just called home at the best shape of my hike...I was 22.

I now live right beside Mt. Oglethorpe.

Anyhow I found this site and decided to sign up.

[mva1985]

Just stopping in to introduce myself... I've been on the AT but never hiked it. I've always had the dream that I would love to do this but could never really imagine doing it by myself.

I love camping and backpacking or even just a day hike.

Most of the time I probably will just be lurking and reading for information. I'm at a time in my life that I probably would not be able to do the AT until I retire.

[Sasqwatch]

New to the site. Well, not really new. It would be more accurate to say that I'm back. My wife and I hiked from Springer to just outside of Blacksburg, VA in 2004 as a honeymoon trip. Fittingly enough we were called the Honeymooners on the trail. 662.5 miles of the AT down and done. However, I still have withdrawals to this day. I yearn to go back and either finish what we started, or start over and thru hike the entire trail. Unfortunately I will probably have to settle for section hiking it a piece at a time until retirement.

In the mean time, I spend as much time as possible out on local trails. Mostly day hikes as we bring the 3 year old with us. I'm looking forward to him being a little bit older and able to cope with a little more mileage and start doing some overnights with him. Well, that's a bit about me. Happy to be back!

[Johnny Walker]

Hi Y'all, new to the site and wanted to post. I hiked a little bit with my dad at Amicallola St park and up to the Hike Inn. Never made it up to Springer, but we had a great time. Ever since something has been calling me up there. I want to say its a spiritual thing. My buddy and I have been doing some small overnights her in FL, and I've been itching to get to Springer. I've been a gearhead lately and have finnaly got most off what I need. Its an addiction I suppose, with the gear and dreams about the trail. Well I believe its ment to be because I just got laid off and I gonna head to Springer and hike to Damascus VA for traildays. Gonna leave the 4th of april. Hope to see some of y'all out there.

[atrafiki]

Just joined the site! Am planning on finishing my 28yr "thru hike" this summer (2011). Started at Springer in 1984 as a young 20 something fresh from working Outward Bound courses for many years. Got to CT/MA border and for reasons I can't remember stopped there!! Hiked MA two months after getting married in 1989 and took up the trail again summer of 2009 in Vermont. Last summer NH and now the final miles in Maine! Starting on my own in early July and hoping to find some other 50 somethings or older to carry on with. The dream of standing on Katadin never died!

Rafiki

[Kickrocks]

Hi everybody! New here just wanted to introduce myself. I've done a fair amount of backpacking throughout central PA over the years and looking to get back into it. I've been on parts of the AT around here but it's been my dream for years to thru hike it.

-Cam

[delaford321]

Hey, I'm new here too. I haven't made it over to the trail in a few years, but I've been getting the itch. I think that's why I've been drawn here.

[houndog95]

I'm thinking about hiking the 100 mile wilderness in late April to Early May...
Can anyone tell me if the trail will be in a condition to do so regarding snow and ice. Thanks!

[AndyB]

getting the urge to step out for a while, maybe in 2012 for a few weeks. being middled age sucks. My packs have been sitting in a tub for 10 years, where has the time gone? I'm looking forward to doing some backpacking with my wife and 3 boys.

AndyB

[TexasEd]

Q:
My packs have been sitting in a tub for 10 years, where has the time gone?

A:
I'm looking forward to doing some backpacking with my wife and 3 boys.


I've been a round a while but read a lot more than I post. My brothers and I are section hikers that do a week at a time.

[KAW]

I am doing a week in the smokies next week! This is best I can do till retirement! I did a week last years a well. I will only be on At at Silers bald one night as my son and I are hitting side trails! We are hoping to avoid the masses.

[Southern Skies]

I've been here a while, but not active. I had planned to thru hike years ago when I joined but got married and went to grad school and got a job instead lol. But hubby is supportive of finding a way for me to quit my job and finish the trail. Until then I'm section hiking. So in prep for my upcoming section hike (btw I haven't section hiked since 07) starting April 9th I've been on here a LOT :) Always looking for backpacking friends to talk about all this with so feel free to pm me :)

[Afroman]

Welcome everyone! Hi I am from New Jersey and I consider myself a "professional hiker" I travel the world looking for new endeavors. I am here to offer advice and hopefully learn new things and meet new people!

[weary]

I'm thinking about hiking the 100 mile wilderness in late April to Early May...
Can anyone tell me if the trail will be in a condition to do so regarding snow and ice. Thanks!
April and early May will make travel in the "wilderness" very difficult, most years. And recent storms suggest it may be even worse than usual this year.

[Jman]

Hello everyone. I am new here and looking to get back into more hiking. I am from South Carolina and do some traveling that is work related allowing me to see some interesting places.

I am seriously contemplating a thru in 2012.

[easternpathfinder]

Hi ,I also am from SC and also have work related travel.Have always toyed with thethought of hiking the trail and as middle age is upon me,I certainly plan on fullfilling this ambition

[Finnster]

Hey everyone. I'm from Georgia and my niece got me into this site. I just wanted to drop by and say HOWDY!

[tjforrester]

I've been away from the trail for a long time, over ten years, and recently started a hike down in Springer. Thought I'd drop in and say hi, maybe look up some old friends.

TJ

[pablowest]

Hi Ernie. Welcome to this thread. I'm hoping that I can join you in your hiking. :D :welcome

[JackRyan]

Always have to do the quick intro when signing up for a new forum!

I'm currently a college student in UP's Keweenaw, hoping to do a thru when I graduate in 2 (maybe 3) years. Hopefully I can put of the allure of getting a real job to explore for a summer at least :p

Anyway, Hi!

JR

[mhemberg]

The usual introduction planning a 4 day tour with my 7 year old son and 65 year old father in SNP next week. Thanks for all the great information.