GSMNP Boy Scout Hike

[unl1988]

Folks,

The older scouts in my boy scout troop and a couple of adults (4 boys, 2 adults) are going to be hiking the GSMNP AT section this July. We have had two of our Eagle Scouts hike the whole AT and want to introduce some of our other scouts to the AT.

We figure it will be about a 7 day hike for them (they were at Philmont last summer and 10-15 miles a day was about right) and are planning on a re-supply at Newfound Gap. We have already contacted the park about scheduling the camping stops, and the two adults are experienced on the AT.

Some of the things we are looking for information on are:

What will the water status be in the park during that time?

Is there an individual or organization that can help them with re-supply? (our troop is from the eastern part of NC and we are not sure if we can get another adult to drive out and back to do the Resupply)

Any park specific information that we should be aware of?

Thanks!

[Ghosthiker]

Why not contact a local troop for some support? I know if it were in our area, our troop would assist.

[bigcranky]

Water: it's been a wetter year so far compared to 2007, though there's no guarantee it'll last into July. But generally speaking you should be okay on water unless things change radically in the next 6 weeks.

Resupply: You could contact Jeff Hoch at The Hike Inn, or Curtis at Standing Bear Farm. They do shuttles in the area, and might be able to "shuttle" your resupply to meet you at NFG. Or they might be able to suggest someone.