Heading out April 1st

[HiKen2011]

Well I have all my chores done at home and just re-packed my pack, again.
I did eliminate a couple of things though. My weight with 3.5 day's of food and 84 0z. of water is 30 lbs. Not to bad for me. I am bringing a sony radio, only weighs about 4.5 ozs. and a small book, and my prescription medications. Other than that just the usuall things, cold weather clothing, gloves, beanie, down jacket and rain gear.

I'm excited and nervous at the same time. I've
really prepared for this though with almost 1000 miles of hiking-walking-backpacking over the last year. I feel good and I'm healthy so I feel confident.

I head to Springer tommorow afternoon, spend the night there and begin first thing Friday morning. Thanks to everyone here on WB for all your help, especially Garlic and Mudhead for your wonderful advise and encouragement.
Thanks again,

Detour

[Pootz]

Good luck. Enjoy everything the trail has to offer.

[sidebackside]

Good luck!!

[Jeff]

April is a perfect time to start a hike from GA.

[FritztheCat]

Have a great hike! I'll be starting exactly one year after you!

[mudhead]

Don't be adding any fun extras, just cuz you are happy with your load!

Be sure to post up what it was that you forgot.

One time I forgot my coffee cup.

Be safe.

[Tinker]

A sensible one, not heading out too early.
Enjoy your hike.

[DAG]

I am new to this and am all packed up and ready to go. I will be making the trip from Virginia to Georgia tomorrow and hitting the trail on Friday morning. This is all new to me, so hopefully I will run into some people to get me through it. Hope to run into you on the trail.

[Turtle2]

Best of hikes to both of you! Enjoy every minute--well, maybe not EVERY minute will be enjoyable. You know what to do!

[kolokolo]

Hope you both have a great hike. Post some updates and pictures, if you get a chance.

Good luck!

[BitBucket]

Good luck on your hike! If you stop by the Hiker Hostel, tell Josh and Leigh the boys from Alabama said hello.

[WalkSoftly33]

Good luck. Hope to see you out there!

Im going to be starting on saturday. Originally was begining thursday but an equipment "issue" set me back, now im waiting it out at Alabama University visiting my sister.

Whats that qoute...even the best laid plans...something something.

[daddytwosticks]

Good luck...I'm heading out for a section hike (ASP to Neals Gap) on Easter Sunday morning. Hope to see you all out there.

[Praha4]

good luck, I'll be 9 days behind you... starting April 10th

[tennesseered]

trail is muddy and still some snow in the smokies. shelters also extremely muddy. weather has been nuts! did a 5 night loop hike and temperatures ranged from 10 deg - 75 deg . along with hail, 50+ mph winds, snow, and rain. but ill be a little behind you im starting on springer on the tenth

[HiKen2011]

Hey all,
I had to leave trail, had an emergency at home. Plan to return Saturday, April 10th. Last year I had to leave because of an injury, I'm beginning to wonder if it's meant to be, however my family comes first. Say a prayer that all works out. Thanks,

Detour

[mountain squid]

Sorry to hear Detour. Hope and pray all is well.

Don't worry the trail will still be there. (You'll have to find your own ride next week though .)

See you on the trail,
mt squid

[HiKen2011]

Thanks MS,

It was good to see last week. I'm sure you made it home O.K. I'll be back out this weekend and hope to meet new friends.

Detour

[Blissful]

Hope things work out, Detour. I see the truth of your trail name! But you have your priorities right for sure. Trail is there waiting for you when you can return.