first AT hike =), question...

[GAJethro]

Are you talking 3 days and 2 nights or are you talking 4 days and 3 nights?

[Marta]

think we could blast out the approach to neels?

Definitely. I've done it several times in both directions. (And I'm old enough to be your mother.)
Simple schedule:
Day 1: Approach Trail to Springer Shelter
Day 2: Springer to Gooch Mtn. Shelter
Day 3: Gooch Mtn. Shelter to Neels Gap

Or in reverse order. Bring a cell phone and some shuttlers' phone numbers and if you find you're not going to make the distance, call and arrange for pickup at an intermediate point. This time of year, though, you've got plenty of daylight so just keep walking and you'll get there.

[kraash]

Definitely. I've done it several times in both directions. (And I'm old enough to be your mother.)
Simple schedule:
Day 1: Approach Trail to Springer Shelter
Day 2: Springer to Gooch Mtn. Shelter
Day 3: Gooch Mtn. Shelter to Neels Gap

Or in reverse order. Bring a cell phone and some shuttlers' phone numbers and if you find you're not going to make the distance, call and arrange for pickup at an intermediate point. This time of year, though, you've got plenty of daylight so just keep walking and you'll get there.

wow thanks marta, that sounds like a perfect plan for us =)

[kraash]

Are you talking 3 days and 2 nights or are you talking 4 days and 3 nights?

3 days 2 nights

[phobos]

Definitely. I've done it several times in both directions. (And I'm old enough to be your mother.)
Simple schedule:
Day 1: Approach Trail to Springer Shelter
Day 2: Springer to Gooch Mtn. Shelter
Day 3: Gooch Mtn. Shelter to Neels Gap

Or in reverse order. Bring a cell phone and some shuttlers' phone numbers and if you find you're not going to make the distance, call and arrange for pickup at an intermediate point. This time of year, though, you've got plenty of daylight so just keep walking and you'll get there.

I, too, am planning a 3 day 2 night hike and that seems like quite the plan. Thanks!

[Marta]

Hostels I recommend on either end are The Hiker Hostel on the southern end and the hostel at Mountain Crossings on the northern end. Either set of folks can fix you up with a shuttle and advice on parking, not to mention food, fuel, excess pack weight, etc.

Both the Springer Shelter and Gooch Mountain Shelter have separate tenting areas, good water sources, bear cables, and privies. The GATC does a wonderful job of trail and shelter maintenance. If the weather cooperates you should have a wonderful trip.

Good luck!

[kraash]

marta, have you ever done this hike in the first half of september? that might end up being when we do it...

[Marta]

marta, have you ever done this hike in the first half of september? that might end up being when we do it...

Yes, the first time I hiked it as a section was in September, 2004, in between hurricanes Frances and Ivan. I was hiking SOBO.

Days can be fairly hot in September (80's), but the nights should be reasonably cool. It's a nice time to hike.

[phobos]

marta, have you ever done this hike in the first half of september? that might end up being when we do it...

haha wow, that is the same time I am planning on doing my 3/2 night trip. Maybe we'll see each other! i'll be with 2 others.

[kraash]

sweet, let me know if you find any good deals on shuttle and lodging =)

[sbhikes]

i have been saying that for 3 years already.. if I keep waiting for more or better time ill be saying "man that would have been fun" from my nursing home bed.

You have to make the time. Quit buying crap, pay off your bills, get rid of your expenses and then quit. You won't regret it.

[kraash]

You have to make the time. Quit buying crap, pay off your bills, get rid of your expenses and then quit. You won't regret it.

now theres some thinking I can get behind =)