View Full Version : Class of 2010
I am so excited. I have been working at getting my pack weight down for years now and with next years thru hike it gave me all the more reason. I have my pack weight under 24 pounds right now. That is fully loaded with water and a few days worth of food supplies. I never thought I would be able to get it that low. It has all the essential s I need. The only thing that it does not include at this time is my cold weather gear and my camera. I did it and I am sorry happy. I still cannot believe it. I need to go back over everything again to make sure I am not forgetting something. It just sounds too good to be true.
HeartFire
03-27-2009, 17:24
I am so excited. I have been working at getting my pack weight down for years now and with next years thru hike it gave me all the more reason. I have my pack weight under 24 pounds right now.
So, what do you have that comes to just 24 lb?? the curious wannabe's light weights want to know.:D
Cedar Tree
03-27-2009, 17:32
As of right now, I am still planning on another hike next year. I will have to sell a house first, but I think I can do it. I will also have to quit my job, again. But, as a certified Math teacher, I can usually find something. I'm 48.
Cedar Tree
dunordtom
03-27-2009, 19:21
I'm planning a 2010 nobo. In prep, I'll be taking on a portion of Wisconsin's Ice Age Trail.
(formally "cflamm")
so i'm off to travel country outdoors in orlando to test some equipment.
i've got my eye on a ula circuit and a six moons lunar solo and a mont-bell bag, none of which they carry. but they do have a vapor trail and a pinnacle, which i'd like to see. also a hubba and seedhouse.
not ready to buy anything yet...just to browse. haven't looked at new gear in years. still using my dana bridger for longer hikes and my dana gallatin fanny pack which i still love.
from the store, i'm going for a 13-miler. pretty trail, easy going. after all it's florida.
i've also found a slew of very good broadcast quality video cameras in the 1# range. with an ultra light tripod, i might just be able to shoot this thing.
i plan to keep my pack weight at 20, - food and water so i think it's definitely doable.
btw, for anyone who is interested, i did a documentary on surfing a few years ago. the link goes to the pbs station i'm at and where i plan to air the AT documentary.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-hDSUqdlGZI
man, i am SO excited about this!!!!
TV
That was a great little documentary. I started watching it but I got to State of Mind part 3 and could not find it. It seems that not all the parts are on the web.
I would like to see good documentary from someone that is actually on the trail hiking it at the time they are doing the documentary.
yeah, sorry about that, attroll. all 8 parts used to be on there, but the station decided that it was taking away from dvd sales, so they took down all except parts 1 and 2.
glad you enjoyed what you saw.
i've been watching lion king's stuff on the adt on youtube all day.
even found some of his at and pct videos.
i can only watch five million steps, north to katahdan, and how to hike the at so many times, you know? (gee maybe, 100 viewings at last count!)
TV
did i actually mis-spell katahdin! i'm sorry it won't happen again. honest.
Speakeasy
04-07-2009, 15:03
I'm planning my thru hike for 2010. I hope to depart Springer 3 March. I xan hardly wait...:banana
Speakeasy
04-07-2009, 20:19
HDMAMA and SARAHGIRL - I'll be heading out from Springer March 2010. Would love to meet up and at least maybe start together. I can't wait:cool:
LauraKent
04-13-2009, 18:07
Sarahgirl and Lillianp- though it wasn't my orignal intention, it looks like I will also be solo woman hiker next year. I would be happy to at least start out with some ladies. I'm looking to leave sometime in March, but not really sure when. Are either of you planning any shake down trips before then?
Want to try in 2010. Maybe 2011. Need to start saving!
mjohnkennedy
04-14-2009, 11:21
I am in for a 2010 SOBO, right after graduating law school. I love this site, so much useful information. I have read all of the thru-hiking prep articles on here, now onto the threads.
Gorp-Gobbler
04-14-2009, 12:08
Want to try in 2010. Maybe 2011. Need to start saving!
Howdy! Hawkeye:
Even though I started this thread sometime ago I forgot to figure in the cost of doing the actual hike when I figured my budget so I had to opt out for a 011' THRU.
If you don't have the necessary funds for the 010' I'll look for you on the trail in 011'.
Lots of luck.
Chenango
04-14-2009, 13:34
Howdy! Hawkeye:
Even though I started this thread sometime ago I forgot to figure in the cost of doing the actual hike when I figured my budget so I had to opt out for a 011' THRU.
If you don't have the necessary funds for the 010' I'll look for you on the trail in 011'.
Lots of luck.
Gorp-Gobbler - 2010 is still not out for me, but 2011 might be more likely.
Diamond Diggs
04-15-2009, 10:55
Ive been reading articles on this site for months and months.... happy this is my first response: I am planning a 2010 thru-hike, NOBO solo in March. WOW... I have been wanting this ever since I was 14, and saw that first documentary on thru-hiking the AT.... now, it is becoming a reality.
I can not speak from experience but I would definitely recommend not attempting a thru hike with funds that you think may not be enough. There will be nothing more disappointing then running out of money before you finish your hike and having to get off the trail because of lack of funds. I personally have been putting money aside now for a little over three years for my thru hike.
I'll be going around 15 Mar 2010 NOBO solo.
Gorp-Gobbler
04-21-2009, 16:18
Gorp-Gobbler - 2010 is still not out for me, but 2011 might be more likely.
I'd enjoy your company Chenango but not sure if I could keep up with you.
Sheneequa
04-21-2009, 16:44
I am saving up and testing gear for a 2010 thru-hike. I plan to quit my job and hit the trail in late March, 2010.
hikingbear
04-21-2009, 17:20
As of right now it looks like I will be going in 2011 unless I can come up with the $$$ for 2010. I would love to be out there now but the $$$ thing gets in the way.
It is time for me to get a hair cut but I think I am going to say the heck with it and not get my hair cut again until after my thru hike. That would make it about October 2010. Hmm, that could get pretty long.
dunordtom
04-23-2009, 19:15
Planning a spring '10 solo nobo. In preparation, I am hiking Wisconsin's Ice Age Trail in several weeks. I've invested a lot of $$ in gear, and am REALLY looking forward to this. I am a retired guy with a amazingly supportive family that has been nothing but encouraging. I am about 90% of the way there with planning and procurement and to put it mildly, I AM EXCITED! Thanks to Grey Ghost (thru-hike class of '07) for his help with my dream.
:D Have finally set the date for Springer mountain, March 7, 2010. Did my first AT shakedown this past week, Amicalola to Woody Gap 3 1/2 days. Met some great folks and I am really looking forward to next March.
Chuck
tionesta72
04-27-2009, 19:11
I'm saving up all this year for my 2010 thru hike. I'm taking a semester off of school and going NOBO solo in March. If money wasn't an issue, I'd be gone already.
saving up for mid march 2010 for my thru hike. saving money, getting gear and testing it. thinking about it everyday. plan on hiking Massanutten Mountain loop for my shakedown in june.
Lillianp
04-29-2009, 09:19
Sarahgirl and Lillianp- though it wasn't my orignal intention, it looks like I will also be solo woman hiker next year. I would be happy to at least start out with some ladies. I'm looking to leave sometime in March, but not really sure when. Are either of you planning any shake down trips before then?
Laurakent, I discovered recently that I will be spending the summer in Vermont just off the trail. I think I'll get some very short shakedown hikes this summer and perhaps a longer one at the end. We'll see though. Hopefully, I'll be able to do some early to mid fall as well, but seeing as how I live in New England, I'm not sure how far into the fall I'm willing to go. I'd love to start out with someone else, even if it's only for a few days!
Goose Catcher
04-29-2009, 12:26
I'm saving up all this year for my 2010 thru hike. I'm taking a semester off of school and going NOBO solo in March. If money wasn't an issue, I'd be gone already.
Same for me.
I'm going to take a gap year between undergrad and grad school. I'll graduate in mid-march, work for a month, and head down to Springer in late April. If all goes well I'll be turning 21 on the trail!
Doing a 2010 NOBO thru solo. Put my condo up for rent to pay the mortgage and moving to my nearby summer home which I own outright until I leave for Springer. Was wondering what to do with my car for six months--best thing would probably be just to sell it and buy another when I get back. My start window as of now is sometime between Feb. 12 (my 61st birthday) and March 12. Looking forward to meeting some of you out there!
stranger
05-02-2009, 08:21
Stranger here...
I just had to make a tough decision to put off a big hike this year after much internal and external debate, but will be leaving Springer again around mid April. I'll get to do some hiking this year though, land in the states on 18 September and have until 17 October to do some miles, so all is not lost this year.
Don't plan on thru-hiking, probably look at doing 1000 miles, would like to break that milestone as most of my hikes over the years range from the 500 - 700 mile range, 1000 would be nice.
Gonna be another great year, 11 months and counting!
keidallmer
05-06-2009, 14:27
Heyo, I'm planning a 2010 thru-hike SOBO. Working all year till depart time, staying at home with the rents (hey, beats paying nearly $1k in rent, that's new jersey for you) and planning meticulously as we speak. Planning on leaving in Mid June when my hiking buddy gets out of classes.
It's gunna be so cash.
Shovel Head
05-06-2009, 18:19
Yes! I will be in the class of 2010. Been doing some reading and research at this point. Need to start buying gear. Some much information out there. Mind boggling. Keep in touch. Best bet so far talk to previous hikers and the data books.
ohmeringue
05-08-2009, 12:04
Dear Gorp Gobbler -
Hubby and I are planning on a thru hike in 2010 - and I already have a few years on you. I am 65 now!! Its just a walk to enjoy the wonders of nature and to meet some terrific people on and off the trail.
We are in Massachussetts and planning on leaving the 10 - 15th of MArch.
Best to you!
Ham and The Big Guy
ohmeringue
05-08-2009, 12:15
Tony -
Hubby and I are hiking in 2010 and if your wife joins you all the better. Its a great thing to share this experience as no one left behind can really understand what its all about.
I just tell people its my life and this is one of the things that I am doing.....nice way to live and meet Mother Nature and the people out enjoying Her.
Have a ball.
Ham and The Big Guy
Phollower
05-08-2009, 13:37
My brother-in-law and I are in the planning stages for a GA-ME in 2010. He needs to figure out some stuff with his house & job and other details, but assuming that goes well we're looking at an early April take off. My wife and I are planning on me going. We figure it'd be easier to adjust to not going a couple months before the trip than deciding to go at the last minute.
Gorp-Gobbler
05-08-2009, 16:48
Dear Gorp Gobbler -
Hubby and I are planning on a thru hike in 2010 - and I already have a few years on you. I am 65 now!! Its just a walk to enjoy the wonders of nature and to meet some terrific people on and off the trail.
We are in Massachussetts and planning on leaving the 10 - 15th of MArch.
Best to you!
Ham and The Big Guy
Hope you enjoy your trip, I wish I was going to be out there with you.
Hadn't figured the cost of the actual hike when I started this thread, so I had to move on for 2011.
Now with this screwed up job market the way it is, 2011 could be questionable.
Have a "good-n".
cindytime2
05-09-2009, 14:09
My husband and I, Half Left and All Right, respectively are planning to join the class of 2010. We are selling our house, postponing jobs, paying off all debt and heading for Springer to Katahdin, NOBO! Both of us have been section hiking the AT, doing some Trail Angeling, and hiking the Florida Trail. We are very excited about the planning. We are also coming to Trail Days in Damascus next week. We have attended the last 3 years and love it. It is definitely the place to find the answers to lots of the questions people have about gear, food, and of course the trail. Hope to meet lots of people again and buy a few things we need. Good Hiking everyone!!!
Thru-Hiking the AT has been on my todo list as long as I can remember. I'm not getting any younger, I'm still in good health so It's time to get going. NOBO Mid March to Mid April 2010.
World-Wide
05-24-2009, 06:50
Has anyone out there started planning for a Thru-Hike in 2010?
I've been a Section Hiker since '73 but now I want to do the whole thing.
I'd like to hear from prospective 2010'ers.:welcome
Will be out there Mid-March 2010! Hope to see you out on the trail! :)
Gorp-Gobbler
05-24-2009, 16:30
Will be out there Mid-March 2010! Hope to see you out on the trail! :)
Sorry World-Wide I won't be out for a Thru-Hike in "010", but I may try to get some section hiking in.
I had to move my trip back to "011".
Have a good one and perhaps we may cross paths while I'm sectioning.
SawnieRobertson
05-24-2009, 17:49
I began this post. Then it disappeared. So, as I was sayin' . . .
NOBO, solo
Probably flipping or leap frogging for comfort and success
+/- March 18, 2010--no to Approach Trail that day
My gear is all in place. I am attempting to rehome two of my three Standard Poodles. Finances are minimal but will get the job done.
I am losing weight and training earnestly. Thorough healing from knee surgery (no meniscus left, patella naked) must be accomplished. My orthopod is fully behind me in this, so I think that it is going to be my year. God willing.--Kinnickinic
mweinstone
05-24-2009, 17:52
so 2010's the last one if mr camping's correct and the end is may 21st 2011. sup wit dat?
Something came up and my hike may be put in limbo also.
mweinstone
05-24-2009, 18:01
all this leap froggin and flips. whats a half gainer? are we men, or thruhikerattempteesand returnings.friggin hikkas. gotta lovem
TwistedToad
05-24-2009, 22:03
well I'm still a go for '010. still trying to nail down a date. lol i do know it is going to be after the 14th of Feb. I'll have to see my lil girl on her 7th Birthday. So, I'm up for any thing after that. lol
appalachianjosh
05-25-2009, 22:36
Hey guys! May NOBO thruhiker here... It's gonna be rough but I'm planning on finishing before October 15th. Anybody else heading out as late as I am? I'm leaving directly after graduation, which is sometime in the first or second week of May.
Class of '010 is looking good. My buddy Fresh Bread, and my self Mishap will be starting NOBO thru hike late march- early april. Best of luck to all... Headed out to Springer Mt. to Unicoi gap for a 50 miler next saturday. Im gonna let those Appalachians Mts kick my butt. Im from florida so theres no where to train! Look foward to meeting every one next year.
Im from florida so theres no where to train! Look foward to meeting every one next year.
A lot of folks training for long distance hikes all over the world come to Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park to train by hiking the 6.85 Mile round trip across Big Kennesaw, Little Kennesaw, and Pigeon Hill a couple of times a week.
Lone Wolf
05-27-2009, 08:57
i didn't know "training" was involved for walking :-?
i didn't know "training" was involved for walking :-?
Some of us, who have spend 30 or 40 years as couch potatoes have to learn how to do it all over again. Oh! did I mention that I'm dropping 57 lbs so I can carry 35 lbs in my back pack?:D
cowboy nichols
05-27-2009, 09:20
I'm not setting a date for '010 because each time I have gone thru the pain of having to postponing the attempt, I am keeping my gear ready and I think I'll just disapear sometime next spring. I'll let family know sometime after Harpers Ferry. LOL
I'm not setting a date for '010 because each time I have gone thru the pain of having to postponing the attempt...
I'm convinced that: "Life is what happens while you're making other plans." For me it's come down to "Doing the hike is my #1 priority for the next year" I've resigned as president of the Kennesaw Mountain Trail Club, and stepped down from the board of directors so I can focus on getting my homes, family, and finances in order so I can be gone for what looks like 210 days at the moment.
We always find time to do the things that are most important to us in the final analysis.
Right now health issues for me or my wife look like the only thing on the horizon that might prevent doing my hike in 2010. We'll deal with that as time goes by.
Gorp-Gobbler
05-27-2009, 11:54
i didn't know "training" was involved for walking :-?
Maybe they should use the term "conditioning". A lot of us "Over the Hill Folks" have to Condition our bodies.
daylaandjasper
05-30-2009, 16:20
Didgeridude and Doodlebug are planning on hiking in 2010. An 09 hike was postponed cause I got breast cancer and I am going through chemo. Finances also took a hit bc of this! But once I get through treatment I'm going to start uh- conditioning my 35 yo surgery altered bod and whip it back into shape. Lets hope the job and finances fall in place as well. I have to keep my health insurance now!
Maybe they should use the term "conditioning". A lot of us "Over the Hill Folks" have to Condition our bodies.
Conditioning is a good word. I'm Conditionioning my body by dropping 25 Lbs since January. I'm condidioning my pack by losing weight there as well. It's down from 45.2lbs to 35.4 Lbs.
Keep smiling. I'm looking forward to meeting you on the trail.
droptopbenz
05-30-2009, 16:31
we can't all be trail gods like you...lone wolf! i wish i had the time to comment on every post! work much?
droptopbenz
05-30-2009, 16:36
wow! its been 5 whole minutes and and the "man" that discovered/invented the AT hasn't ripped me a new one! anytime old man! bring it!!!
degail45
05-30-2009, 19:33
Looking for a hiker for 2010 ,got about every thing ready to go just need a partner are 2 stating in April
Looking for a hiker for 2010 ,got about every thing ready to go just need a partner are 2 stating in April
Do you really need a partner or do you just want one?
I am starting with someone but we are not partners. We have no intentions of doing a thru hike together. We are just riding down together and starting on the same day. If we stay together of a while then so be it.
World-Wide
05-31-2009, 09:28
Sorry World-Wide I won't be out for a Thru-Hike in "010", but I may try to get some section hiking in.
I had to move my trip back to "011".
Have a good one and perhaps we may cross paths while I'm sectioning.
Sorry you had to postpone your hike! :( Do hope to cross paths w/you though! :D
wacocelt
05-31-2009, 11:28
I may very well be cursing myself for posting this, as my attempts at making plans this far in advance have usually foundered well before hand, but I'm throwing my hat in for 2010!
See you folks in the spring! Be well.
Puck Fu
I don't want to jinx myself but it now looks like I am back on for 2010. Things are starting to fall back into place again.
wacocelt
05-31-2009, 12:10
Holy Moly Troll, I just surfed your link. I'm gonna have to get one of those just for entertainment before I leave!
Holy Moly Troll, I just surfed your link. I'm gonna have to get one of those just for entertainment before I leave!
If your referring to the guidebook Appalachian Pages, then you cannot go wrong. It is the best one out there.
Gorp-Gobbler
05-31-2009, 14:58
I don't want to jinx myself but it now looks like I am back on for 2010. Things are starting to fall back into place again.
I'm glad for you troll, hope you have a 'good-un', you deserve it.
appalachianjosh
05-31-2009, 17:01
Haha, after reading your posts I looked at the Appalachian Pages and bought one :) Thanks!
stranger
06-02-2009, 05:25
Heya, I'll be out there again next year, leaving mid-late April and going to Harpers Ferry, then heading out to hike the Colorado Trail.
Will be doing 350 miles this year somewhere along the AT, just can't make up my damn mind! Driving me crazy haha, maybe Springer to Erwin, I love the south!
RockStar
06-05-2009, 02:37
I have decided that after graduation as a 2 month late 30th Birthday-slash-graduation present to myself, I am going to be walking on the A.T. again. HOPEFULLY finish up, but I'll take whatever I can get out of me. :) Aprilish wil be my Start.
Tatertot
06-11-2009, 22:42
I am planning a Yo-Yo hike for 2010, I live in Ga and if im gonna walk to maine i figured I might as well walk back!! Im not using bounce boxes, or mail drops plan on carrying the same equip at the start as I do at end. I have my sleeping gear and other things laid out for just this purpose for example I will be using a 0 degree bag (over kill maybe but I dont like sleeping cold!) and a 11 degree liner so if i get to cold i can use that or in the summer I can use the liner as a summer bag, my base weight minus food will be about 30ish pounds so a 45 pound pack is a good target. Im wondering though how often people yo-yo this thing I have not heard much about it any ideas? oh and Im also leaving Febuary the first!
Brian (aka Skippy)
06-12-2009, 14:12
Hey! Been dreamin for way to long. Time to wake up. Going for it next year!
Ran many a mile...biked a few more...sweated gallons...lost baby fat...but a restless mind never quits until satisfied...AT bound or down!:sun
Where are you starting from to start on my birthday (2/1)?
ShelterLeopard
06-17-2009, 02:11
I am- hopefully March 1, but sometime in the first half of March. NoBo
PSy BaSS
07-26-2009, 15:37
i'm currently working on yachts and are giving it all away to experience something truly beautiful.... thru hiking the AT seems only a dream; seeing i am from Australia i haven't really had the opportunity to experience it any other way! i was just wondering if there are any aussies or international guests attempting the AT next year. if so i was wondering if you have any info on the whole visa thing. can't wait to see you all on the trail!!!! March baby!!
psy bass
i'm currently working on yachts and are giving it all away to experience something truly beautiful.... thru hiking the AT seems only a dream; seeing i am from Australia i haven't really had the opportunity to experience it any other way! i was just wondering if there are any aussies or international guests attempting the AT next year. if so i was wondering if you have any info on the whole visa thing. can't wait to see you all on the trail!!!! March baby!!
psy bass
This thread may be helpful.
http://www.whiteblaze.net/forum/showthread.php?t=52345&highlight=visa
The Impersonator
07-30-2009, 13:12
Had a failed attempt in 07, and am making a nobo 2010 attempt #2. First week in April, depending on whatever's the cheapest bus fare. If anyone is looking to carpool from New England, let me know! I can't wait to get back down south again, this time with a little more knowledge and better gear. Feel free to shoot me an e-mail, RSirois13@hotmail.com Good luck, and may the wind be at your back.
Had a failed attempt in 07, and am making a nobo 2010 attempt #2. First week in April, depending on whatever's the cheapest bus fare. If anyone is looking to carpool from New England, let me know! I can't wait to get back down south again, this time with a little more knowledge and better gear. Feel free to shoot me an e-mail, RSirois13@hotmail.com Good luck, and may the wind be at your back.
I would take you up on the carpool but I am starting in March.
The Impersonator
07-30-2009, 13:28
I would take you up on the carpool but I am starting in March.
I hear ya. I may head out earlier than first week in April, it'll depend greatly on how much money I've got saved up, and how soon i get my taxes back.
I'll send you a message when it gets to be a bit closer. Good luck!
I hear ya. I may head out earlier than first week in April, it'll depend greatly on how much money I've got saved up, and how soon i get my taxes back.
I'll send you a message when it gets to be a bit closer. Good luck!
I am going to purchase my Amtrak ticket this December.
The Impersonator
07-30-2009, 14:03
I am going to purchase my Amtrak ticket this December.
Good to know. Good luck man.
J.L.M.Webb
08-10-2009, 17:35
I'm planning a 2010 SoBo thru hike. Hopefully starting it mid June. Can't wait :D Would like a partner though so if you're interested, just send me a message or email :)
I'm planning a 2010 Thru-Hike as well. I'll be leaving March, probably the first or second week. I'm already getting antsy, I can't wait!
If everything goes right, I am heading out mid March on a NOBO. Ditching everything I can't put in a crate and leave at my father's in Florida.
muddy2010
08-26-2009, 01:15
I will be leaving NOBO the first Sunday in March 2010.
Diamond Diggs
08-26-2009, 15:18
haha... yeah I hear ya girl! That was my biggest hesitation in going to a hammock. No way I would go back to the ground now.... but - I still get the feeling of being a bear taco when I am in more primitive areas. I am also a female hanger - planning for a NOBO thru in 2010.
rebel460
08-29-2009, 10:37
Ok, so I was planning on doing a thru in '09, but Uncle Sam had other plans, and I met a girl that I decided I was gonna postpone it for anyway. Long story short; she dumped me, I'll be back in the states in the spring, so come hell or high water I'm hitting the trail (I HOPE).
By the way; I'm definetly open to finding a trail partner, but not afraid to do it alone.
rjridgely
08-31-2009, 22:44
I believe I am going to get on the trail, NOBO, sometime between Jan 15th & Feb 1st. Although I might eventually be passed by some of the speedier than thou walkers, I like the idea, the remote possibility. of having the trail almost to myself for a few weeks. Please, oh please let it snow.
truthisnature
08-31-2009, 22:59
Wish I was hitting the trail in 2010 with all of you...but my hike must wait till 2016. I will hit the trail on my 46th birthday mid-March..Pennsylvania to Georgia, then travel up to Maine and hike back home. Can't wait! Till then I shall live thru others trail journals.
Fish out of Water
09-03-2009, 01:01
Planning to be on the trail heading NOBO mid-march!
SawnieRobertson
09-03-2009, 10:29
My departure date has to change to March 19, just one day later, but it was an unwelcome change based on my orthopod's surgery schedule. Not my surgery but his availability to give me my third Euflexxa injection before I head out for Amicalola Falls SP.
He also told me that I "have to" wear the big, heavy (2-1/2 pound), hinged knee brace all the way. To that, I answered "No." He did not understand the lack of mobility that I experience with that, albeit otherwise helpful, brace. As a personal compromise, I have decided to put it on every afternoon after I arrive at the destination for the day, but I still have to carry it in my pack. Guess I'll have to lighten some other stuff. That's a good excuse to look into Heartfire's Light Heart tent. Shopping "light" is so much fun even though it is very expensive.--Kinnickinic
It's in a way horribly unfair for newcomer venders if everyone asks this, so in a way I hope you do get a Heartfire tent, but if it were me I'd be inclined to go with an equally light tent from the likes of tarptent.com, sixmoondesigns.com, mountainlaureldesigns.com, etc. These guys have been around a while, their products have been used and abused by a lot of people for a lot of miles.
I'm not quite 100% yet, but it's looking likely that I'll give the AT a try next year, thinking of a late February start. I really like my tarptent.com contrail, about the same weight and I think roomier inside, overall excellent. What I think I'll go with instead however --- for an even lighter overall shelter + poncho --- is the SMD (sixmoondesigns) Gatewood Cape.
Best of luck with your knees; a relatively minor and hopefully temporary knee issue is one of the few things keeping from being 100% certain I'll be on the trail next year. A 3-day backpacking trip next week will hopefully nail that one down.
Hey WB folks. Ill be hitting the trail Mid march with two other fellas. NOBO. Going under the trail name MISHAP. Hopefully the name wont be my down fall. Ill see you all in Maine!
expat2005
09-04-2009, 01:06
:welcomeEmail expat2005@yahoo.com if interested in developing 3-4 person team NOBO AT thru hike early 04/10. Would like to hike w/folks close to my own age - 61 by the time we hit the trail http://www.whiteblaze.net/forum/images/icons/icon4.gif
expat2005
09-04-2009, 23:46
:welcomeEmail Billy (expat2005@yahoo.com) if interested in developing a 3-4 man team to NOBO thru hike the AT start early 04/10http://www.whiteblaze.net/forum/images/icons/icon4.gif
RBig Bear
09-06-2009, 15:31
Going NOBO starting April 12, 2010...
Just Lisa
09-07-2009, 13:33
Lisa and John (aka justLisa and Squinty) from Florida too... Melbourne and Jacksonville, respectively)....we're leaving March 25th.
Rhino-Mac
09-07-2009, 15:16
I'd like to thru-hike in 2010. Just need to square everything away before then if I do.
willem.greeff
09-07-2009, 17:50
Good day to All
My nmae is Willem, my friends call me Bones....I am planning on Thru-Hiking the trail in 2010, it will all depnd on my current and future work opportunities....I do contract work and will only know later this year if I can break away next year...
I am here to hook up with people who are planning as well and to get as much information as possible....I still have a lot of homework to do as far as getting to the States and Visa's / permits are concerned and then also the gear that I will need....I think it would be ebst for me to buy everything in the US...instead of packing gear and clothes back home...
Anyway, please help me out if you have any suggestions, whatever it may be...any point where I can start of to make this happen, will be great...this is something that I will definately do....no doubt about it...
Thanks
Bones:-?
A friend and I will be thru NOBO in march 2010. Anyone els goin NOBO who is from st.louis or st.charles mo?
Chenango
09-25-2009, 16:53
Count me out for 2010. My retirement date has moved to June 30th, 2010. This is OK. I can really use the extra few months of pay. I will be following those of you on Trail Journals. Have fun out there!!
Those planning to thru-hike in 2010 should think about going to the Gathering next month, Oct. 9-11, at Gettysburg College in Pennsylvania. It's just $10 for the whole weekend, including camping (meals are on your own).
Here is the lineup of workshops aimed at hikers planning their first thru-hike:
-- A seminar on ultra-light gear with samples you can check out and people who've thru-hiked with packs weighing less than 15 pounds!
-- 2 separate workshops on backpacker food, including cooking demonstrations and taste tests.
-- Backpacker first aid, covering all the contingencies you may encounter on your hike, from blisters to snakebites.
-- Women and Backpacking, covering issues unique to the female footwalker.
-- "Ask the Class of 2009" -- a chance for you to ask anything at all of the hikers who are right now the best experts in the world when it comes to the A.T.
-- "Preparing the Dream," a conversation with perennial thru-hiker Baltimore Jack who'll share insights and other tips for a successful end-to-end hike of the A.T.
-- An open forum on the issue of dogs on the trail. The pros and cons, debated in a way that we hope will not lead to any biting.
-- Warren Doyle's A.T. workshop, which lasts for 3 hours and usually includes a free copy of his "book," a sheet of paper printed on both sides with key info about the trail boiled down to its essentials.
-- A workshop on Leave No Trace ethics, with reminders about what you should and shouldn't do in the outdoors.
-- And a talk about hiking with diabetes, from Cesar Becerra, who thru-hiked a few years ago despite having diabetes.
Plus the chance to meet a lot of the folks you may have read about or heard about, and yes, you can ask them anything you want about their hikes. The Gathering began as a way to improve the success rate of future thru-hikers, and that mission continues today thanks to the folks who volunteer to do all these workshops...
Hope to see you there,
Bill O'Brien
www.aldha.org/gathring.htm
Lillianp
09-25-2009, 17:33
Count me out for 2010. My retirement date has moved to June 30th, 2010. This is OK. I can really use the extra few months of pay. I will be following those of you on Trail Journals. Have fun out there!!
OH NO!!! I was so hoping to meet you sometime on the trail. :(
Well, c'est la vie, I suppose.
stunt man
09-26-2009, 17:34
"stunt man" here from pittsburgh and i'll be heading out solo early april heading NOBO. cant wait to get out there!
http://trailjournals.com/entry.cfm?id=290551
I've put together a tentative plan for my SOBO hike in 2010 and posted links to it in my trail journal. I'll welcome any and all comments on the plan as proposed. :sun
DaveJohns
09-30-2009, 01:26
Hi all, Dave here. I am trying to make my life work so I can be on Springer heading north on or around the middle of February.
hopefully I will see ya'll on the trail.
DaveJohns
09-30-2009, 01:27
Those planning to thru-hike in 2010 should think about going to the Gathering next month, Oct. 9-11, at Gettysburg College in Pennsylvania. It's just $10 for the whole weekend, including camping (meals are on your own).
Here is the lineup of workshops aimed at hikers planning their first thru-hike:
-- A seminar on ultra-light gear with samples you can check out and people who've thru-hiked with packs weighing less than 15 pounds!
-- 2 separate workshops on backpacker food, including cooking demonstrations and taste tests.
-- Backpacker first aid, covering all the contingencies you may encounter on your hike, from blisters to snakebites.
-- Women and Backpacking, covering issues unique to the female footwalker.
-- "Ask the Class of 2009" -- a chance for you to ask anything at all of the hikers who are right now the best experts in the world when it comes to the A.T.
-- "Preparing the Dream," a conversation with perennial thru-hiker Baltimore Jack who'll share insights and other tips for a successful end-to-end hike of the A.T.
-- An open forum on the issue of dogs on the trail. The pros and cons, debated in a way that we hope will not lead to any biting.
-- Warren Doyle's A.T. workshop, which lasts for 3 hours and usually includes a free copy of his "book," a sheet of paper printed on both sides with key info about the trail boiled down to its essentials.
-- A workshop on Leave No Trace ethics, with reminders about what you should and shouldn't do in the outdoors.
-- And a talk about hiking with diabetes, from Cesar Becerra, who thru-hiked a few years ago despite having diabetes.
Plus the chance to meet a lot of the folks you may have read about or heard about, and yes, you can ask them anything you want about their hikes. The Gathering began as a way to improve the success rate of future thru-hikers, and that mission continues today thanks to the folks who volunteer to do all these workshops...
Hope to see you there,
Bill O'Brien
www.aldha.org/gathring.htm (http://www.aldha.org/gathring.htm)
sounds like an awesome gettogether. Is there a version of that for those of us on the southern end?
bonbon49
09-30-2009, 15:37
planning now to start in march 2010
bonbon49
09-30-2009, 15:43
planning on leaving in march 2010
Chenango
09-30-2009, 17:46
OH NO!!! I was so hoping to meet you sometime on the trail. :(
Well, c'est la vie, I suppose.
Who knows. I am on the AT peridoically throughout the year.
Monday marked the four month point on my countdown to Springer! I'll be taking the last exam of my academic education in Atlanta on January 27th and my childhood friend will fly in fresh off of scuba diving in Borneo and we'll be staying at the Hiker Hostel for a night. The next morning we'll get dropped off at Amicalola and off we go. I'd be sharing this with my family, friends, and colleagues, but they all think I'm nuts...so Whiteblaze it is. While I'm pretty sure I'll see less fellow hikers out at this time of year than average, I look forward to meeting any of y'all out there. Happy trails/trials.
Petr
Chenango
10-01-2009, 12:31
Monday marked the four month point on my countdown to Springer! I'll be taking the last exam of my academic education in Atlanta on January 27th and my childhood friend will fly in fresh off of scuba diving in Borneo and we'll be staying at the Hiker Hostel for a night. The next morning we'll get dropped off at Amicalola and off we go. I'd be sharing this with my family, friends, and colleagues, but they all think I'm nuts...so Whiteblaze it is. While I'm pretty sure I'll see less fellow hikers out at this time of year than average, I look forward to meeting any of y'all out there. Happy trails/trials.
Petr
Four months to go ... exciting!! Borneo to Springer in Feb. Should be a bit cooler in Georgia. lol
Diamond Diggs
10-09-2009, 10:47
i understand the frustration of the family not buying in to the dream and the journey of the trip..... i have tried for years in vein..... although they are slightly better than before - it still normally always ends in a disapointing critical conversation of how stupid I am for thinking about going out in the middle of the woods by myself..... They (specifically my mother) just dont get it..... But - ditto, on the WB community, its great to be able to share with those who do "get it".... and maybe I will see you in march!!!
basement
10-13-2009, 22:45
Hello everyone, I thought I would make this my first post. I recently decided that no matter what I have to do to get everything sorted out I'm gonna start thru hiking on march 22, 2010.
i understand the frustration of the family not buying in to the dream and the journey of the trip..... i have tried for years in vein..... although they are slightly better than before - it still normally always ends in a disapointing critical conversation of how stupid I am for thinking about going out in the middle of the woods by myself..... They (specifically my mother) just dont get it..... But - ditto, on the WB community, its great to be able to share with those who do "get it".... and maybe I will see you in march!!!
I'll be out there about mid-march for another thru. My mom didn't like the idea either at first (not that she could've done anything since I was 36!). But after getting her to watch Appalachian Impressions and reading a couple books to get a better idea what it was all about, she was all over it. She became a great supporter during the hike and now she uses it as a conversation piece with friends and family.
Diamond Diggs
10-20-2009, 00:16
thats awesome. Yeah, I have just recently sat down with my parents and watched A. Impressions as well as five million steps.... My dad is more understanding of my desire to do this, and although I do believe the video and the stories of previous solo female thru-hikers - young and not as young - have seemed to settle her somewhat, she still have not got on board with it - but at least I think she has excepted the fact that I am going to do it. Thats good enough for me..... for now :)
walkin' wally
10-20-2009, 18:14
Count me out for 2010. My retirement date has moved to June 30th, 2010. This is OK. I can really use the extra few months of pay. I will be following those of you on Trail Journals. Have fun out there!!
I know that feeling. I have had to move my retirement day also. May 2010. I hope to still go to Springer someday though.....