View Full Version : Shenandoah Sectional Advice
I want to take a short hike maybe 3 or 4 days, to warmup for hike two months later of AT Smokey Mountain's section. What would be a smaller section to cover that would be interesting and nice hike to continue to build hiking stamina? I was also considering hiking south of Fontana Dam, then on continuing hike 2 months later to hike Smokies. But I heard VA was good place to get feet wet:)
juniorace
08-19-2015, 22:53
When are you thinking about going on your short hike?
When are you thinking about going on your short hike?
In the spring, we are doing smoky's first of June, i know that is long way away, but smoky hike will not be easy so I am setting up my days off, weekends this fall and next spring to prepare my old beat up body.
I have gotten much stronger and better hiking shape over the last month, but no where ready yet.
Studlintsean
08-20-2015, 08:47
I'd recommend starting at Thornton Gap and hiking south to Swift Run Gap. Not sure on the mileage off the top of my head. If you have time , take the salamander trail off the AT to the summit of Hawksbill. Sharon Shuttles on the ATC shuttle list (Google) is a great shuttle option for the park.
I'd recommend starting at Thornton Gap and hiking south to Swift Run Gap. Not sure on the mileage off the top of my head. If you have time , take the salamander trail off the AT to the summit of Hawksbill. Sharon Shuttles on the ATC shuttle list (Google) is a great shuttle option for the park.
I second this. That section is great and so is Sharon.
full conditions
08-20-2015, 10:30
I would probably steer clear of the section immediately south of Fontana Dam as a practice hike unless you are already fairly fit - the 30 miles between Fontana and the Nantahala River is very difficult terrain - more difficult (IMHO) than any 30 mile portion of the AT in the Smokies.
Studlintsean
08-20-2015, 10:32
I'd recommend starting at Thornton Gap and hiking south to Swift Run Gap. Not sure on the mileage off the top of my head. If you have time , take the salamander trail off the AT to the summit of Hawksbill. Sharon Shuttles on the ATC shuttle list (Google) is a great shuttle option for the park.
The distance is 34.6 miles according to ATdist.com
The distance is 34.6 miles according to ATdist.com
That might be perfect, what type of elevation we talking? I plan to hammock camp, good hanging possibilities?
johnnybgood
08-20-2015, 12:52
That might be perfect, what type of elevation we talking? I plan to hammock camp, good hanging possibilities?
Big climb out the gate , once on the ridgeline nothing to compare with that first climb. Hammock options are plentiful.
The first climb it tough, but I really like the engineering of the trail on that climb. I wish I had gone to engineering school...