View Full Version : Class of 2010
Gorp-Gobbler
06-16-2008, 09:15
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
DesertMTB
06-16-2008, 09:18
I'm hoping for a 2010 thru.
Lone Wolf
06-16-2008, 09:28
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
why the thumbs down?
Cedar Tree
06-16-2008, 09:40
I am planning another Thru in 2010.
CT
Gorp-Gobbler
06-16-2008, 14:12
What do you mean 'Thumbs Down'?
Lone Wolf
06-16-2008, 14:14
What do you mean 'Thumbs Down'?
at the top of your post
Corporal_Dusty
06-16-2008, 14:16
I'm planning for a thru, possibly in 2010 or so.
A friend, my son, and I are planning on starting in March 2010. It's the 100th anniversary of Scouting in the US and it seemed as good as excuse as any to start a thru-hike.
Gorp-Gobbler
06-16-2008, 22:13
My bad, I thought it was a question mark (?). I guess I better get new glasses before I go hiking.
I guess I better get new glasses before I go hiking.Yeah, or else you might find yourself sleeping in a "shelter" that is very small and has a raised seat with a hole in it and is stinky.
Pennsylvania Rose
06-16-2008, 23:20
In my mind, my two oldest kids (15 & 17 right now) and I will be on the trail in 2010. But, there are a lot of "it depends on..." attached to that. I'm fairly certain at least one of us will be. Most every trip we take (whether hiking, visiting family or whatever) is decided at the last minute. So we'll probably know one way or another about two weeks before it's time to leave.
How's that for a non-answer?
minnesotasmith
06-17-2008, 08:34
why the thumbs down?
BC he has to wait til 2010 to thruhike, not being able to go next year. ;)
RITBlake
06-17-2008, 10:31
My bad, I thought it was a question mark (?). I guess I better get new glasses before I go hiking.
haha I just laughed out loud, sorry but thats funny man!
Gorp-Gobbler
06-17-2008, 11:23
In my mind, my two oldest kids (15 & 17 right now) and I will be on the trail in 2010. But, there are a lot of "it depends on..." attached to that. I'm fairly certain at least one of us will be. Most every trip we take (whether hiking, visiting family or whatever) is decided at the last minute. So we'll probably know one way or another about two weeks before it's time to leave.
How's that for a non-answer?
I know what you mean about the Last Minute Decisions.
Gorp-Gobbler
06-17-2008, 11:29
haha I just laughed out loud, sorry but thats funny man!
Well the 'Dog-Gone' thing does look like a "?" here in Southern IN.
Now had I been out home in OH. it would have looked like a 'Thumbs Down', do you see what I mean.
After all "What is a HOOSIER"?
Gorp-Gobbler
06-17-2008, 11:30
Yeah, or else you might find yourself sleeping in a "shelter" that is very small and has a raised seat with a hole in it and is stinky.
The nose 'Knows'.
Gorp-Gobbler
06-17-2008, 11:36
at the top of your post
Hey Lone Wolf, how can I get this thing taken off of my post?
My Thru-Hike is NOT Going to be a Thumbs Down adventure.
I eat, sleep, walk, talk, work, run and the other thing where the raised seat is in the cramped little room that stinks, APPALACHIAN TRAIL.
Lone Wolf
06-17-2008, 11:45
Hey Lone Wolf, how can I get this thing taken off of my post?
My Thru-Hike is NOT Going to be a Thumbs Down adventure.
I eat, sleep, walk, talk, work, run and the other thing where the raised seat is in the cramped little room that stinks, APPALACHIAN TRAIL.
don't know. :) maybe PM a moderator
RITBlake
06-17-2008, 15:36
Leave it, instant trail name, question mark or 'thumbs'
Footslogger
06-17-2008, 15:38
Will have to see how 2009 goes, with respect to the cardiac rehab ...but the wife (BadAss Turtle) and I are talking about another AT thru. Vote is still out. We might break it into to 2 seasons, which would work better with her calendar at the university. For me it don't matter because I'll be retired by then :banana
'Slogger
4eyedbuzzard
06-17-2008, 16:11
Yeah, or else you might find yourself sleeping in a "shelter" that is very small and has a raised seat with a hole in it and is stinky.
Yeah, beware of that pentacubashelter and hexaprivy on Mt Cube...
or was that hexacuba shelter and pentaprivy...?:confused: :-? :D
Best to have glasses and be able to count the number of walls
I will be hiking the AT in 2010. Start mid-march. :banana
minnesotasmith
06-17-2008, 16:13
Hey Lone Wolf, how can I get this thing taken off of my post?
Send ATtroll ten bucks.
Planning 2nd thru in 2010, depends on finances, may be 2011. . .
Gorp-Gobbler
06-18-2008, 13:42
BC he has to wait til 2010 to thruhike, not being able to go next year. ;)
Good answer Minnesotasmith.
Gorp-Gobbler
06-18-2008, 13:57
I will be hiking the AT in 2010. Start mid-march. :banana
It sounds like you are definately going. My Thru will depend on if I have all of my creditors paid off by then, I should have the way things are going now.
Gorp-Gobbler
06-18-2008, 14:04
Check out the "Thumbs Up" in my original post now. Thanks to attroll. I hope I'll be excepted into the class now. ha! ha!
:D
2010 is very possible,,like Footslogger this heart-thing(4 stents) could hamper my plans,,but I doubt it
walkin' wally
06-18-2008, 17:58
I'm shooting for mid march 2010. A.F.S.P. I may be traveling down with another Whiteblaze member.
I hope to meet some WBers along the way. I'm down to about a year and a half to retirement. wow :sun
What a long strange trip it's been.
jessicacomp
06-19-2008, 11:18
I am going to do everything in my power to thru in 2010. I did the first 460 miles, and I am going to try and do around 1,000 more before 2010 though.
It sounds like you are definately going. My Thru will depend on if I have all of my creditors paid off by then, I should have the way things are going now.
Yep, barring some unforseen event I will be on Springer Mt. in March 2010. :)
Gorp-Gobbler
07-21-2008, 10:39
Since I'm slowing getting my creditors paid off (3 Down, 3 By Jan., 9 Left for 2009) it won't be that long before I'm stepping on the AT, so in dreaming of thAT day I came up with this name while munching on some Good Ol Raisins & Peanuts.
So don't look for (backpacker2007) because he never materialized thAT year but Gorp-Gobbler should be there in 2010.
Chenango
07-22-2008, 18:18
I am in for 2010. :)
Chenango
07-23-2008, 16:03
I'm shooting for mid march 2010. A.F.S.P. I may be traveling down with another Whiteblaze member.
I hope to meet some WBers along the way. I'm down to about a year and a half to retirement. wow :sun
What a long strange trip it's been.
WW - I have a year and half also to retirement. Will it ever get here??
Lillianp
07-24-2008, 08:51
I'm in for the class of 2010. I wanted to hike NOBO otherwise it'd be 2009 (graduating May 09). I'll probably start late march/early april, as I like New Hampshire and Maine in August/September. Very pretty. Also, I get hives in the cold, so I'd rather avoid some of it in Georgia. :eek:
walkin' wally
07-24-2008, 15:35
WW - I have a year and half also to retirement. Will it ever get here??
It seems that lately the time is flying by like crazy. I think a year and a half ought to be here in about 5 minutes:D I don't have all my gear yet either.
Lillianp
07-24-2008, 16:07
Well, I'm not retiring, but i realized earlier this summer that a year and a half-especially with a good bit of that being senior year of college will FLY by and I won't know what hit me. And then I'll be on the trail! I have nowhere near all my gear.
I will be retiring October 31, 2009 from the Marine Corps. Not looking to do a winter hike, though will probably be hitting parts of the NCST up in Michigan while taking care of the a little much needed retirement down time and relaxation for a couple months.
The plan right now is to hit the trail NOBO around 5 March 2010. I am actually ready to step out the door now, however the Marine Corps has this thing about funding someone to go sight seeing for 6 months. LOL
For those that are planning the hike in 2010, see you on the trail. If I can help at all, let me know.
Lone Wolf
07-25-2008, 10:38
Semper Fi. have fun when the time comes
I am really looking forward to it. Hiked up to Springer Mt Shelter and back down to Amicalola Falls back in Feb. Injured the shoulder in March so no hiking since while nursing the shoulder back to health. There isn't a day that passes that I don't log on here and wish I was out with the 2008 crew. Wife agreed to let me do the Thru (surprising) and even talks about doing parts of the AT with me and doing the Michigan section of the NCT (surprised even more). I can't wait!!!!!!
Gorp-Gobbler
07-26-2008, 14:06
I am really looking forward to it. Hiked up to Springer Mt Shelter and back down to Amicalola Falls back in Feb. Injured the shoulder in March so no hiking since while nursing the shoulder back to health. There isn't a day that passes that I don't log on here and wish I was out with the 2008 crew. Wife agreed to let me do the Thru (surprising) and even talks about doing parts of the AT with me and doing the Michigan section of the NCT (surprised even more). I can't wait!!!!!!
Tony you're not alone with your feelings. I log on several times a day to check for new threads.
I too wish I was on the trail. I'd planned for a 2006 hike, it didn't work out. So I planned for a 2007 and was laid off from work toward the end of 06, so the funds were shortened.
Now that I've been back to work since January, things are looking up for a 2010 Thru.
I'd been a section hiker since 1973 and if you ask anyone that knows me they'll tell you I eat, sleep, drink, walk, talk and run the Appalachian Trail.
I'm 56 now and would love to have as many hikes on the AT as Warren Doyle. Who knows, I might catch up with his total and then some. Ha! Ha!
Hopefully I'll see you on the trail.
longneck
07-30-2008, 16:47
Looks like it'll probably be 2010 for me. woohoo!!
(am I the only one who keeps calling it "oh-ten" rather than "twenty-ten"?)
paradoxb3
07-30-2008, 19:16
Count me in too, I'll see ya atop springer, march 2010!
Chenango
07-31-2008, 08:20
oh-ten! I say that all the time.
See you on the trail in oh-ten!
SurlyTemple
08-10-2008, 21:34
I plan on my first thru hike in 2010. I will be heading out with one or two friends (we'll see who bails out last min.) We will be leaving out March 20th 2010.
Gorp-Gobbler
08-10-2008, 22:15
I plan on my first thru hike in 2010. I will be heading out with one or two friends (we'll see who bails out last min.) We will be leaving out March 20th 2010.
Welcome Aboard Surly:
Looks like your friends may Bail Out First, you're a member of WB you're hooked. :D
SurlyTemple
08-14-2008, 00:17
If they do they do, there is still me and the trail and thats all I need to the adventure...well that and some peanut butter, beef jerky, and a good sleeping bag lol
Chenango
08-16-2008, 15:06
Kind of bored today. I just finished sealing the driveway and was then looking at pics of last weekend's hike in VT. I have a vague plan for another weekend hike in late September. I am so anxious for 2010 to get here. Last night I watched the movie Southbounders. It got me even more psyched for 2010. So here is the question:
Q. With about 18 months to go, how do you cope with long wait for your 2010 thruhike?
A. For me it is at least one overnight a month, lots of Sunday afternoon hikes on the Finger Lakes Trail, and lots of time on WB and TJ.
What about you? :confused:
SurlyTemple
08-19-2008, 16:11
I have decided to spend my next year planing little by little and buying gear along the way. This way each time I get a new piece of gear I HAVE to go out and test it. This gets me out in the woods and it makes the time pass.
Gorp-Gobbler
08-19-2008, 17:18
Kind of bored today. I just finished sealing the driveway and was then looking at pics of last weekend's hike in VT. I have a vague plan for another weekend hike in late September. I am so anxious for 2010 to get here. Last night I watched the movie Southbounders. It got me even more psyched for 2010. So here is the question:
Q. With about 18 months to go, how do you cope with long wait for your 2010 thruhike?
A. For me it is at least one overnight a month, lots of Sunday afternoon hikes on the Finger Lakes Trail, and lots of time on WB and TJ.
What about you? :confused:
I received a notice in the mail yesterday for me to appear in court. It seems one of my creditors has gotten impaient with me and wants to sue. Oh shucks!! :eek:
I've already paid off three and will have two more paid off before my court date of Oct. 1st.
They know how to hurt a guy. I wish I could tell them TO GO TAKE A HIKE.
Early Bird
08-19-2008, 19:28
I would like to make it to ME in 2010.i'm in MA.
Chenango
08-21-2008, 11:45
I have decided to spend my next year planing little by little and buying gear along the way. This way each time I get a new piece of gear I HAVE to go out and test it. This gets me out in the woods and it makes the time pass.
SurylTemple -- I know what you mean. I have been getting new gear little by little and then I just have to get out there and try it out. BTW. You are lucky. You have an REI store in Conshokeen (sp?). I live in the sticks of central NY and only get to stop in REI when visiting my mother-in-law in Lansdale.
Chenango (Oh-ten)
I am planning a 2010 thru. I am another person who logs on to Whiteblaze everday, wishing I was out on the trail now. Unfortunately I have too many bills piled up and will not be able to make it out next year either. However, I plan on doing a few weeklong hikes between now and 2010 to get myself ready and to test gear. I am going to be doing my first in SNP sometime in early October. Barring any unforseen circumstances, I will be starting between March 1st and March 10th, 2010 for my thruhike.
Gorp-Gobbler
08-21-2008, 15:20
I have decided to spend my next year planing little by little and buying gear along the way. This way each time I get a new piece of gear I HAVE to go out and test it. This gets me out in the woods and it makes the time pass.
My old Kelty Tioga pack which I bought in '74 is still wearing like iron as are two sleeping bags I can choose from but I'll need to replace some other gear.
I know they have lighter stoves and tents now and since this is going to be a longer trip I'll need to get a better water filter too.
warren doyle
08-23-2008, 07:09
For those people planning 2010 AT hikes:
The next preparation session for the 2010 AT Circle Expedition will take place Oct. 3-6.
The next Appalachian Trail Institute (ATI) will be Dec. 12-15.
More info on these can be obtained from the website below.
Happy trails!
mtnkngxt
08-24-2008, 21:32
May 2010 the day after I graduate from college I'll be hitting the trail. Was supposed to be taking the girlfriend, but after a lot of arguing and some snide remarks from her today I'm leaving her at home. I need to find someone to hike with though because of a medical condition.
Gorp-Gobbler
09-13-2008, 09:04
May 2010 the day after I graduate from college I'll be hitting the trail. Was supposed to be taking the girlfriend, but after a lot of arguing and some snide remarks from her today I'm leaving her at home. I need to find someone to hike with though because of a medical condition.
mtnkngxt:
Having any luck finding a hiking partner for your SB hike?
mtnkngxt
09-16-2008, 21:12
Decided to go NOBO most likely. Will be leaving Damascus May 17th right after trail days. I have until the end of August to get as far as I can or finish. Looks like I'll be going to Med School in the fall of 2010.
paradoxb3
09-19-2008, 13:17
Q. With about 18 months to go, how do you cope with long wait for your 2010 thruhike?
Currently 2 jobs @ 60-70 hrs/wk occupies most of my time until my NOBO in 2010. Its the only way i can pay off all of my debt and save up the extra few grand to go. When I get a little closer, maybe in another 6 months, I'll probably drop the part time job, as my finances will be pretty well straightened out by then. Then I'll have some time to get a few more weekender hikes in.
Silver Bear
09-19-2008, 16:54
I am in training (mind & physical). A lot has been learned this year, this is as much mind over matter as being in good physical shape. 2010 is on my mind. I will know for sure in the spring of 2009. You would think after 45 years together "sweetie" could do without me for 6 months?
Silver Bear
09-19-2008, 17:03
I am in training (mind & physical). A lot has been learned this year, this is as much mind over matter as being in good physical shape. 2010 is on my mind. I will know for sure in the spring of 2009. You would think after 45 years together "sweetie" could do without me for 6 months?
Gorp-Gobbler
09-20-2008, 10:15
Currently 2 jobs @ 60-70 hrs/wk occupies most of my time until my NOBO in 2010. Its the only way i can pay off all of my debt and save up the extra few grand to go. When I get a little closer, maybe in another 6 months, I'll probably drop the part time job, as my finances will be pretty well straightened out by then. Then I'll have some time to get a few more weekender hikes in.
I know what you mean. I'm in the same boat.
I keep checking this site as well as TJ site. They help keep me focused.
Also 2010'ers, this forum heading will be changing to "Class of 2010" in October instead of Hooking Up.
I was planning on 2010 then it seemed to fall through. Things are looking better though. May happen after all.
Gorp-Gobbler
09-21-2008, 05:18
I am in training (mind & physical). A lot has been learned this year, this is as much mind over matter as being in good physical shape. 2010 is on my mind. I will know for sure in the spring of 2009. You would think after 45 years together "sweetie" could do without me for 6 months?
Silver Bear just tell "Sweetie" that absence makes the heart grow fonder.
See ya on the trail.
Gorp-Gobbler
09-21-2008, 05:26
I was planning on 2010 then it seemed to fall through. Things are looking better though. May happen after all.
I hope it does Manach. See ya out there!
Great to see all you folks planning to thru hike in 2010. I am evaluating my gear, and trying to decide what to change, what to keep the same. I've been waiting a long time to do this. From this point of view it seems like its a long ways away, but I know the time will go quickly. Looking forward to meeting you all out there on the AT.
TwistedToad
09-27-2008, 11:39
I am planing on a March 2010 thru-hike
Pathfinder
09-27-2008, 14:58
I plan to start a Northbound thru-hike in early June of 2010. I'm cutting it close, but I think I can do it.
NorseWoman
09-27-2008, 22:14
2010 is the projected year
Will have to quit job so it all depends on $$$
Will hike with a friend from CA
Nana
2010 is the projected year
Will have to quit job so it all depends on $$$
Will hike with a friend from CA
Nana
Join the club. I will be quiting my job too.
Me too. I'm aiming for a thru in 2010. In Jan. 09 I'm doing a thru on the FT. Hope to have a good time.
Gorp-Gobbler
09-29-2008, 09:42
Join the club. I will be quiting my job too.
I'll be quitting my job also, but it's one that I won't mind quitting.
With a degree in Business Mgmt. and one in Culinary Arts I'll be looking for work along the trail or perhaps an area that needs some sort of service like a hostel or B&B catering to the hiker community.
If anyone knows an area that could use this sort of service let me know and I'll check it out when I go through the area in '010'.
Chenango
09-30-2008, 17:19
I have Springer Fever (yes, in Sept) and 2010 is still a long way from now!! I did get on the AT this past weekend in Vermont. It was great, but now the fever is even hotter. I am burning up ... just kidding, but I am anxious for March 2010.
See you folks out there.
TwistedToad
09-30-2008, 18:25
all of this "planning" is driving me crazy!! lol I just wanna get out there already and do it. But as they say good things come to those who wait. I hope I am one of those!
I may be on this list. First big step is getting married in August, and make sure finances are where they need to be to be able to hike though.
all of this "planning" is driving me crazy!! lol I just wanna get out there already and do it. But as they say good things come to those who wait. I hope I am one of those!
I set my date six years ago. I know the feeling. Right now it is only 15 months away. Now that sounds scary saying "only 15 months away". Now that I am only 15 months away I am getting nervous a little. The nervousness is not about the hike but quiting my job and not having one to come back to at my age.
I have Springer Fever (yes, in Sept) and 2010 is still a long way from now!! I did get on the AT this past weekend in Vermont. It was great, but now the fever is even hotter. I am burning up ... just kidding, but I am anxious for March 2010.
Planning, what planning? Just have the gear you want to hike with and try it out a few times and make sure it is what you really want and need and just go.
Seriously I think the biggest planning issue that I will have to deal with is my mail drops and where to send them but I do not see that as to much of a big deal. I will have someone at home running my base camp for me doing all that when I call and tell them to send it.
What I have found myself doing for the last couple of weeks is looking through my copy of the Appalachian Pages guide book (http://www.appalachianpages.com)and trying to fingure out what mileages I think I will do each day and where I will be staying each night for the first week. I have not gone beyound the first week and a half though because I know that will be useless because my pace will change and I should start hiking some more miles.
TwistedToad
10-01-2008, 09:23
I set my date six years ago. I know the feeling. Right now it is only 15 months away. Now that sounds scary saying "only 15 months away". Now that I am only 15 months away I am getting nervous a little. The nervousness is not about the hike but quiting my job and not having one to come back to at my age.
Planning, what planning? Just have the gear you want to hike with and try it out a few times and make sure it is what you really want and need and just go.
Seriously I think the biggest planning issue that I will have to deal with is my mail drops and where to send them but I do not see that as to much of a big deal. I will have someone at home running my base camp for me doing all that when I call and tell them to send it.
What I have found myself doing for the last couple of weeks is looking through my copy of the Appalachian Pages guide book (http://www.appalachianpages.com)and trying to fingure out what mileages I think I will do each day and where I will be staying each night for the first week. I have not gone beyound the first week and a half though because I know that will be useless because my pace will change and I should start hiking some more miles.
Yeah, I woke up this morning and the 1st thing I said was, WOW just 15 months now! lol Kinda had a lil funny feeling then and now that I have had a lil time to think about it that feeling has gotten stronger. I would go crazy if I didn't have something to keep my mind off of it. lol As for me with the job thing.... I am vert lucky in that department. I work for myself so it isn't a big deal for me. My house and cars are paid for so there isn't a worry there either. :rolleyes:
longneck
10-01-2008, 15:50
Join the club. I will be quiting my job too.
I was just going to bring my laptop along and work on the trail.....
...
haha yeah right! :D
I'm debating between using my current backpack or getting a new one for 2010. I have a Kelty Coyote that has served me well over a lot of miles and has always been comfortable, but it is a tad heavy, nearly 6lbs. So I am debating getting a lighterweight pack or not. I am hesitating getting a new pack, what if I find it isn't comfortable, or just doesn't work. I heard if your a member of REI that you can return used gear no questions asked. Is this true? Does anyone know?
retiring July '09, section hike of NJ in July, Long Trail in Sept, and AT NOBO in March!!!
TwistedToad
10-05-2008, 18:38
I'm debating between using my current backpack or getting a new one for 2010. I have a Kelty Coyote that has served me well over a lot of miles and has always been comfortable, but it is a tad heavy, nearly 6lbs. So I am debating getting a lighterweight pack or not. I am hesitating getting a new pack, what if I find it isn't comfortable, or just doesn't work. I heard if your a member of REI that you can return used gear no questions asked. Is this true? Does anyone know?
I just bought a Kelty Coyote 4750 for $50 brand new!! Yes it is a lil big and like you said nearly 6 pound. But for that price I couldn't pass it up! I love it already fits and feels great!!
I am not going to go on a rampage here about ounces and pounds and this is not intended towards TwistedToad so please do not take it that way.
We all need to be careful of the stuff we carry. We are going to be carrying it for about 2,176 or so miles. If you think "it is just another 1/2 ounce or a pound" and then say that for about 5 or six items then it starts to add up. A bargain is a bargain but for me there are two considerations when purchasing something. Do I really like it, do I really need it, and how much does it weigh. The price does play into the fact some too.
I am not one of the ounce weenies that tries to go a light as I can but I am careful with the weight that I carry. I have also been planning my thru hike now for over five years so I have had time to research a lot of items and save some money for the lighter weight items that cost a little more.
TwistedToad
10-05-2008, 21:34
I am not going to go on a rampage here about ounces and pounds and this is not intended towards TwistedToad so please do not take it that way.
We all need to be careful of the stuff we carry. We are going to be carrying it for about 2,176 or so miles. If you think "it is just another 1/2 ounce or a pound" and then say that for about 5 or six items then it starts to add up. A bargain is a bargain but for me there are two considerations when purchasing something. Do I really like it, do I really need it, and how much does it weigh. The price does play into the fact some too.
I am not one of the ounce weenies that tries to go a light as I can but I am careful with the weight that I carry. I have also been planning my thru hike now for over five years so I have had time to research a lot of items and save some money for the lighter weight items that cost a little more.
There's no worries here over what you posted! Yes, I thought about the weight of the pack. I figured I will make up for it else where. You have a very good point to everything you said! I had found myself counting ever lil ounce on everything and it started driving me bonkers! So I said to myself..... don't sweat the small stuff. lol
There's no worries here over what you posted! Yes, I thought about the weight of the pack. I figured I will make up for it else where. You have a very good point to everything you said! I had found myself counting ever lil ounce on everything and it started driving me bonkers! So I said to myself..... don't sweat the small stuff. lol
It was just a little reminder to let everyone know that the weight of things should be in the back of there minds.
I am thinking of carry a few unneeded items that I would like to carry to help my family track. me. I purchased a Spot and that is about 8 ounces. I will also may be carrying a GPS and a blackberry phone for my journaling to help me with updates to the book Appalachian Pages (http://www.appalachianpages.com). Now that I may be carrying these items I need to find a way to loose about 2 to 3 pounds to make up for carrying these items.
My main concern about switching packs is whether a new one will be as comfortable as my current pack. I plan to switch out my current msr stove for a lightweight alcohol stove, and I am also looking at replacing my tent with a lighter one, so I will save a little weight there. But I also plan on replacing my 1/2 in. air mattress with a thicker BA air mattress which will be a little heavier, so my overall weight difference probably wont change. The biggest weight difference I can make will be switching to a lighter weight pack. Decisions, decisions... I guess these are merely the first of many I have to make.
m0rpheu5
10-06-2008, 23:41
i am hopefully doing a 2010 nobo thruhike depending if i can do it financially, in college right now but working in my spare time, im going ultralight so i need money for gear then money to give to my parents to payback loans while im gone then another 1500 to 2000 for the trail. We'll see, fingers crossed...planning on hiking the triple crown within 5 years lord willing.
Monkeywrench
10-07-2008, 07:31
The nervousness is not about the hike but quiting my job and not having one to come back to at my age.
I hear you on that. I will be quitting my job next March (5 months from now!). I will be 50 years old at the time, and with the economy doing a nose-dive, who knows what I'll be coming home to in the fall. But if I stayed home and worked, I could end up in the same situation work-wise, and would miss out on one of life's great adventures. Besides, I hate my current job!
Well if the economy continues its decline until 2010, what better place to be than on the AT? I just have to make sure I keep my student loans in deferment while I'm away. :D
Chenango
10-09-2008, 06:15
That stock market decline goes two ways. Good time to be out on the AT, but can I now afford to retire in 2010? Yes, this has me spooked a bit. :eek: Retiring at 54 is risky enough, but with my portfolio way down ... ouch! A friend from church recently died at the age of 55 and I know he put much of his life on hold waiting to retire in his early sixties. :( I do not want to be like that. I will far from starve and my wife will continue to work for a couple of years. The market will rebound within 5 years ... I hope. Bottom-line: I need to do this in 2010!
Soooo, I am still on track for 2010.
warren doyle
10-09-2008, 08:45
We just completed our second preparation session for the 2010 Expedition (Oct. 3-6). It was a 63-mile, 3-day backpack on the trail from Linden to Rt. 40A (Turners Gap) followed by half-day 'reality check'. The hopefuls that attended were quite impressive (considering some were fairly new to backpacking). Out of the eleven who participated: nine completed the entire distance, one stopped the morning of the third day (Harpers Ferry) and one decided that the required mileage was too much.
Out of 60 people that expressed interest in the 2010 Expedition, we are now down to 34 people (19 women; 15 men; average age is 53; 20 states represented). We have 12 more days of preparation left in which this number (34) will decrease.
More info on the 2010 AT Expedition is on the website below. There also will be an info session on it at the ALDHA Gathering this weekend.
Happy trails!
That stock market decline goes two ways. Good time to be out on the AT, but can I now afford to retire in 2010? Yes, this has me spooked a bit. :eek: Retiring at 54 is risky enough, but with my portfolio way down ... ouch! A friend from church recently died at the age of 55 and I know he put much of his life on hold waiting to retire in his early sixties. :( I do not want to be like that. I will far from starve and my wife will continue to work for a couple of years. The market will rebound within 5 years ... I hope. Bottom-line: I need to do this in 2010!
Soooo, I am still on track for 2010.
I know exactly where you are coming from. This one of the reasons I want to do it now. If I wait to much longer then I may be to old and who knows what my health will be like further down the road. I want to do this while I am still in semi good health. I also want to do it while I am still alive.
I also want to do it while I am still alive.
I agree, that is the best time to do it :D
TwistedToad
10-09-2008, 13:57
I agree, that is the best time to do it :D
ditto!:banana
NorseWoman
10-09-2008, 18:42
Hey ATTROLL What is a Spot?
Wow, a lot of decisions to be made, was thinking 2 years but it is only 17 months- have the gear but will try and lighten up (keeping comfort in mind) even more. The biggest place for me to lose weight is myself- so will start to work on this
The financial crisis has had me thinking maybe I won't be able to go- I will keep planning jic
Nana
walkin' wally
10-10-2008, 08:26
I know exactly where you are coming from. This one of the reasons I want to do it now. If I wait to much longer then I may be to old and who knows what my health will be like further down the road. I want to do this while I am still in semi good health. I also want to do it while I am still alive.
Well lets get goin then.
Gorp-Gobbler
10-10-2008, 22:02
That stock market decline goes two ways. Good time to be out on the AT, but can I now afford to retire in 2010? Yes, this has me spooked a bit. :eek: Retiring at 54 is risky enough, but with my portfolio way down ... ouch! A friend from church recently died at the age of 55 and I know he put much of his life on hold waiting to retire in his early sixties. :( I do not want to be like that. I will far from starve and my wife will continue to work for a couple of years. The market will rebound within 5 years ... I hope. Bottom-line: I need to do this in 2010!
Soooo, I am still on track for 2010.
I'm with you on this one Chenango.
Having just gone through the better part of two years with out FULL Time employment, I set myself the goal of fulfilling my dream of a Thru-Hike. I tried doing it several years but something always came up that prevented me from succeeding.
Now I'm at a job that I wouldn't leaving even though I'm getting out of debt, I am as we all are, getting older.
Since my decision to try to become debt free by 010' to do the trail, I started experiencing pain on the bottom of my right foot right on the heel.
With this and the fact I work third shift at my job and do all sorts of Handi-Man work during the day, I am suffering from the lack of sleep.
So I feel I owe myself this trip.
I won't have much of a retirement but that hasn't really bothered me. With a B.S. in Business Mgmt. and my A.A.S. in Culinary Arts, I figured I'll try to find work somewhere along the trail in order to give back to the hiker community.
The next year is going to be a tough one, but Lord willing I'll get through it and hopefully join you out there.
Hey ATTROLL What is a Spot?
Here is a link to the Spot.
http://www.findmespot.com/Home.aspx
The financial crisis has had me thinking maybe I won't be able to go- I will keep planning jic
Nana
As I said I started planning for this almost 5 years ago and have been trying to put away $200 every month since I started. If anyone is going to plan this then don't wait until the last minute to start saving money. What a lot of people fail to realize is that a thru hike is not cheap. Plan on spending at least $4,000.
Well lets get goin then.
I am ready Wally. The only worry I have is you bailing on me. You are my ride to Springer.
NorseWoman
10-11-2008, 01:28
The actual cost of the thru hike is not a problem. I have planned for it. I don't believe it has to be as expensive as ATTROLL said. I will minimize trips to towns cause that where the excess $ is spent
It's the car payment, insurances and other continuing bills, and especially coming back to no source of income (have to quit job) and especially the effect the countries financial crisis has on my savings. It's all a little overwhelming right now but the plans go forward cause I want to hike.
Good luck to all in your own prep for the Thru Hike
When I said $4,000, I was going on the light side when I said that. About 5 years ago the thru hikers were saying that you could do a thru hike for about $1 per mile for the length of the Appalachian Trail. Back than that was about $2,000. Now there saying that the average is $2 per mile which is about $4,000. Most people I have talked to that have completed a thru hike have spent between $4,000 and $6,000 on there thru hikes.
I am sure it can be done for cheaper then $4,000. I am just stating what has been said and what I have found from my research.
Pedaling Fool
10-11-2008, 10:32
The actual cost of the thru hike is not a problem. I have planned for it. I don't believe it has to be as expensive as ATTROLL said. I will minimize trips to towns cause that where the excess $ is spent
It's the car payment, insurances and other continuing bills, and especially coming back to no source of income (have to quit job) and especially the effect the countries financial crisis has on my savings. It's all a little overwhelming right now but the plans go forward cause I want to hike.
Good luck to all in your own prep for the Thru Hike
What ATTROL says is right. Yes you can lessen the price considerably, but that's would be at a cost - not a monetary cost; rather a comfort cost. Most who think the can afford that cost cannot.
As for the other costs, I'm lucky there, I hate bills and everything I purchase, including my house I do so with a plan to pay it off quicker than the normal plan. Most people suffering financially put themselves in that situation and didn't know it until problems surfaced. Take a real hard look at your bills and come up with a plan.
Even if you are not planning on spending $4,000 for a thru hiker I would still go into it with at least $4,000 or more. If you don't use all $4,000 then you will have it when you come back to the real world. One of the reasons among others that some people do not finish a thru hike is because they run out of money. I would not want to start something I was not prepared to finish financially.
NorseWoman
10-12-2008, 21:58
$4000 for 6 months (26 weeks) is about $154 a week spent on the trail- seems like a lot to me but I'll go with your suggestions. Now I need to get creative with the finances
Thanks for bringing reality to me Nana
$4000 for 6 months (26 weeks) is about $154 a week spent on the trail- seems like a lot to me but I'll go with your suggestions. Now I need to get creative with the finances
Thanks for bringing reality to me Nana
I was not trying to be a pain. I was just trying to let you know that it is not as cheap as people think it is. I think that most people think they just throw a backpack on and have mail drops sent to post office boxes and they can do their whole hike that way and you probably could. I don't know if I could or even what to live off mail drop food for six to seven months. I know I am going to want to gorge myself when I get into towns. Your body is going to burn a lot of calories and you need to replace those so you do not get run down. Your going to want to stay in hostels and hotels too. Hostels can be some what cheaper but you can not find a hostel everywhere. If you use a shuttle service the going rate are bout $2 a mile. Then you have to be prepared for the unexpected. If you get injured or get sick, that could take you off the trail for a few days and every day spent of the trail is money spent.
Look at the bright side if you put the money away and don't use it all then you will have some money to come back to. On the down side if you do not put enough away then you are going to be pretty upset at yourself when you run out.
Gorp-Gobbler
10-13-2008, 00:33
I know what attroll is talking about Nana, I for one don't one to worry about money on the trail. If I want to get off for a day or two to "pig-out" at a restaurant instead of eating Ramens I will. If I want to do some side trips, that may require $$, I will do them and not worry about doing them.
Thanks for the advice Troll, I may switch my planning modes for 2011. I just don't think it will be feasible to make it in 010'.
Hey! what the heck? My other 4 or 5 Thru-Hikes I planned didn't materialize either or some reason or another.
Gorp-Gobble
You know the saying. "Proper planning is everything" or something like that.
Gorp-Gobbler
10-13-2008, 07:08
Gorp-Gobble
You know the saying. "Proper planning is everything" or something like that.
Ya, I think it is "Proper Planning Prevents P___ Poor Progress".
I just didn't take everything in prospective. My focus was on paying off the creditors which I'm doing quite well.
I knew in my mind I'd have equipment to replace but I never really gave having the money for the hike much thought.
It will still be close and possilbly even doable depending on the amount of painting contracts I have next year, how many landscapping jobs I get, how many powerwashing jobs I do, and the other many Handy-Man jobs I do, plus the work I do in the restaurant.
I may have a career change take place as well in which case I'll wait on retirement before taking the BIG HIKE. I'm trying to get back into Management. I worked as a Deli/Bakery Manager with a local supermarket.
I'll stay focused and keep touching bases here.
Yes money is my biggest worry. It is not the money for the hike that worries me because I will have that. I have three loans that I am paying on right now that we be paid off before the thru hike. That was one of my other reasons for picking 2010. I am in a very good paying job right now with a pension and 401K. I mean I am getting paid fairly decently. They will not give me leave of absents or a sabbatical at all. That means I will have to quite my job. I know I will not be able to come back to it or get a job paying like this when I get done with my thru hike.
I will have the normal electric, house and car insurance and medical insurance while I am hiking. The only big bill that I will have is my mortgage and as of right now I have that covered. It is the unexpected things that will pop up while I am hiking that my wife may not be able to deal with. My wife is disabled and can not work a full time job, she can not work more then 20 hours a week and the job she has is minimum wage. This is not so much as a big worry because I am sure everything will be fine.
My biggest worry is coming back to the real world and not getting a job paying like I have now or at least one that will support the both of us and our normal hobbies.
Hi everybody! I've just recently decided I want to thru the AT starting in/around June '10 - right now I'm leaning SOBO if just to get the hardest part done early...err...first. Realistically, this is a partial pipe dream as I write this since a) I've never thru'd anything - just a few day hikes - and b) I have no idea how my leave of absence request will be rec'd. :confused: I have made plans to thru the 165 mile Tahoe Rim Trail in June '09. I figure if I can do that in 8-10 days I'll be AT worthy.
Two questions:
1) Having read the entire thread, I'm surprised nobody has mention David Miller's 'Awol on the Appalacian Trail'. It's a quick read and has stoked my passion for actually doing this. Does anyone with AT experience have an opinion on this book? It's supposed to be one of the better ones out there.
2) I figure I've got one shot on the LoA request, which I plan on submitting in a few months. I've never made such a request in my career. Anybody have a suggestion or two or three?
I'm happy I found this thread and look forward to getting to know the Class of 2010.
Hi everybody! I've just recently decided I want to thru the AT starting in/around June '10 - right now I'm leaning SOBO if just to get the hardest part done early...err...first. Realistically, this is a partial pipe dream as I write this since a) I've never thru'd anything - just a few day hikes - and b) I have no idea how my leave of absence request will be rec'd. :confused: I have made plans to thru the 165 mile Tahoe Rim Trail in June '09. I figure if I can do that in 8-10 days I'll be AT worthy.
Two questions:
1) Having read the entire thread, I'm surprised nobody has mention David Miller's 'Awol on the Appalacian Trail'. It's a quick read and has stoked my passion for actually doing this. Does anyone with AT experience have an opinion on this book? It's supposed to be one of the better ones out there.
2) I figure I've got one shot on the LoA request, which I plan on submitting in a few months. I've never made such a request in my career. Anybody have a suggestion or two or three?
I'm happy I found this thread and look forward to getting to know the Class of 2010.
I also think this is the best one out there at this time. I am not being bias just beacuse Awol and I have become good friends. Before I become good friends with Awol I had already formed the opinion that this is the best AT read and still feal this way.
Chenango
10-23-2008, 13:27
Ditto to what AT Troll said. Awol's book is one of the best, if not The Best.
Footslogger
10-23-2008, 14:24
I think it's the best ...but I have to admit to a touch of bias. I hiked some with Awol in 2003 and even got an honorable mention in the book.
Seriously though, what I like most about the book is that it documents both the miles and the emotions. Plenty of "how to" books out there but if you are interested in getting a feel for the experience of a thru-hike before you actually undertake one it wins ...hands down.
'Slogger
I think it's the best ...but I have to admit to a touch of bias. I hiked some with Awol in 2003 and even got an honorable mention in the book.
Seriously though, what I like most about the book is that it documents both the miles and the emotions. Plenty of "how to" books out there but if you are interested in getting a feel for the experience of a thru-hike before you actually undertake one it wins ...hands down.
'Slogger
Yeah I'm about two thirds through Awol's book. I *think* I saw you pictured in there but maybe I'm confusing you with another guy. From his writing it seems like you guys had your own personal thunderstorm following you up the trail. Sure hope that doesn't happen to me since I don't think I can stand enduring those conditions for such an extended period.
Footslogger
10-23-2008, 17:59
Yeah I'm about two thirds through Awol's book. I *think* I saw you pictured in there but maybe I'm confusing you with another guy. From his writing it seems like you guys had your own personal thunderstorm following you up the trail. Sure hope that doesn't happen to me since I don't think I can stand enduring those conditions for such an extended period.
========================
I hope you don't either ...but in the end if you are committed to getting there, you'll endure !! After a while we all got used to everything being damp and musty. Made an occasional night in town all the more special !!
'Slogger
Wrangler88
10-27-2008, 11:43
I'm going to thru starting NOBO in mid-May of 2010 because of college. I've never been anywhere near the AT but I've been reading a lot and buying gear and it's been my one and only dream for the past few years. I need to get out there and start some practice hikes. Although its hard to find anything comparable around here in north Texas. I'm jealous of all of you living around the mountains.
I'm also planning a section from Harper's Ferry south to the Smokies at the end of next June.
I hope to meet a lot of you out there.
Hey 'Slogger (or anyone else who's done the the trail in NH and VT),
I finished Awol's book over the weekend. There was one particular point - I forget if it was in New Hampshire or Vermont - where he wrote about a steep decline of about 45º, the footholds were a long reach, and the short trees nearby had been partially uprooted from hikers using them as aids in getting down.
Do you remember that part of the trail? Since I'll be going SOBO, I'll have to climb that part. I'm not an experienced mountain climber in the least and I'd hate to reach a point which is impassable for me. It's not going to keep me off the AT but I'd rather avoid being surprised by an incline which is too vertical for me.
Please advise.
walkin' wally
10-28-2008, 18:43
I'm not Footslogger but on page 185 of his book AWOL desribes the descent of the north face Mt. Mooselauke NH into Kinsman Notch about as you have described.
Macallister Vagabond
10-28-2008, 19:12
I'm in. Starting quite early. Intend on experiencing four seasons.
I have added a new forum titled Class of 2010 (http://www.whiteblaze.net/forum/forumdisplay.php?f=487) and moved this thread into it. I will start a 2011 forum at the end of October in 2009.
~ I'm not an experienced mountain climber in the least and I'd hate to reach a point which is impassable for me. It's not going to keep me off the AT but I'd rather avoid being surprised by an incline which is too vertical for me.
Please advise.
Nowhere in the Whites, is the AT so steep that it be characterized as impassable; even for this old guy.
There's no need to stress about this. Honest. By the time you reach the climb to Moosilauke, you will be a hiking machine - having completed the most physically challenging section of the Trail.
Most find steep sections to be less intimidating when going uphill. You will enjoy Beaver Brook Trail. Trust me.
Chenango
11-02-2008, 08:20
Class of 2010 has its own thread in the Class Forums. Hooray!! It is getting closer.
Do you remember that part of the trail? Since I'll be going SOBO, I'll have to climb that part. I'm not an experienced mountain climber in the least and I'd hate to reach a point which is impassable for me. It's not going to keep me off the AT but I'd rather avoid being surprised by an incline which is too vertical for me.
Please advise.
Hey, Bunk--There's nothing on the AT you can't do. People older, weaker, fatter, lamer, and less experienced than you have hiked the whole thing.
That said, there are some obstacles that you'll be surprised are part of a long-distance trail.:D
NewEnglandMiles86
11-03-2008, 17:47
planing a thru hike in 2010 if my long distance section this year goes well ! see you all on springer in 10!! (can we call it 10? or is it 010? im unsure)
TwistedToad
11-03-2008, 21:43
planing a thru hike in 2010 if my long distance section this year goes well ! see you all on springer in 10!! (can we call it 10? or is it 010? im unsure)
it's '010
Flatlands Girl
11-09-2008, 12:38
I plan on a NOBO thru hike for 2010, leaving out mid Feb with my dog.
Tim Hudson
11-10-2008, 01:36
I'm planning a thru in spring of '10. I am giving myself from jan to july as a Nobo walk.
'010 ain't coming soon enough. Now that my retirement date from HQMC (Headquarters Marine Corps), I will be leaving my beloved Corps on the 1st of November 2009, home to spend some quality time with my family and final preparations for the coming thru-hike. I look forward to meeting all you early NOBO's. I am still leaving out according to plan (6 March 2010). I am not doing the approach trail again and will be making arrangements with the Hiker Hostel to drop me off and away we go. Anyone planning to take off that weekend, let me know. Just posting to keep up with the goings on with the Class of 2010.
I was thinking today. 1 year and 4 months. woa :-?:D
I was thinking today. 1 year and 4 months. woa :-?:D
Exactly. Only 16 more months. It is not really that far away.
Its crazy, it is going to totally creeping up. I still need to save a bunch more. But i know ill be ready in time.
Its crazy, it is going to totally creeping up. I still need to save a bunch more. But i know ill be ready in time.
It is crazy! It is totally creeping up. I still need to save a bunch more but, I know I will be ready in time.
I really wish I could edit my posts. :o:(:confused:
It is crazy! It is totally creeping up. I still need to save a bunch more but, I know I will be ready in time.
I really wish I could edit my posts. :o:(:confused:
Yeah I need to try and put some more aside too and your right it is creaping up fast.
Hopefully... Gotta work out a lot of things first. I'm planning on deferring my college admission a year so I can hike the trail. We'll see how things go.
Chiaroscuro
11-18-2008, 15:27
Zoinks! I have my heart set on a SOBO thru in 2010, but the money / life / retirement discussion is sobering.
I am hoping to offset, if not completely defray the cost of my mortgage by renting my house out. I also have to find foster homes for my dog and cat. I have no gear as yet, having not backpacked in about 27 years.
So, I'm researching, buying gear one piece per month or 2 months for the bigger ticket items. Initially concentrating on the basics so I can start some training hikes. Only day hikes thus far.
Mt. Moosilauke was the Everest that caused me to hang up my pack all those years ago. I'm hoping less ego and more patience will make the difference.
Retirement? Hah! I must work until I die. Really. Career in the unremunerative "Arts".
Next gear purchase will be a food dehydrator.
Glad you are all here.
. I also have to find foster homes for my dog and cat. .
Couldn't you leave them with family or something. Won't you miss them when you get back. I love my dogs so i felt the need to say something lol.
2010 isnt coming soon enough. I am getting fed up with school and work. Between the 2 its like im working 80 hr weeks. I am getting to the point where its all i think about. Maybe alittle to obsessed.
80 is prolly an exaggeration it is more like 60. I just cant wait to start hiking.
Gorp-Gobbler
11-19-2008, 02:03
80 is prolly an exaggeration it is more like 60. I just cant wait to start hiking.
I'll work Santa you go to school, course I'll keep the money too.
I'm out of work but looking HARD. I had to change plans and am going for 011'.
So hang in there and keep on doing what you need to do.
I know what you mean. I originally wanted to go in 09 but it wasnt realistic for my plans. But everything happens for a reason. I am set on 2010 though. I dont care what it takes.
im 16 right now and i'll be graduating HS in 2010.. so i am forsure thru hiking sobo in 2010.. word
Chiaroscuro
11-22-2008, 17:19
santa, yes I will miss them terribly. I insist the foster homes are temporary, as I fully intend to retrieve them when I get back.
And yes, friends and family. I couldn't let them go to strangers.
Chenango
11-24-2008, 12:45
Well, my 2010 trip is off. With the current stock market crash, I cannot retire as planned. I want to make sure my family and I are financially secure. Retiring at the end of 2009 would be a stretch. My monthly hikes are now important than ever. These need to carry me through the next 3-4 years of work!!
To the class of 2010: best wishes for your times on the trail!!
Well, my 2010 trip is off. With the current stock market crash, I cannot retire as planned. I want to make sure my family and I are financially secure. Retiring at the end of 2009 would be a stretch. My monthly hikes are now important than ever. These need to carry me through the next 3-4 years of work!!
To the class of 2010: best wishes for your times on the trail!!
hey everything happens for a reason man. Good luck and have fun hiking.
There's no need to stress about this. Honest. By the time you reach the climb to Moosilauke, you will be a hiking machine - having completed the most physically challenging section of the Trail.
Sounds great - except for the fact I'll be going SOBO. Guess I'll just have to take the "where there's a will, there's a way" approach.
Thinking about it, but it depends when in 2010 my son graduates from college.
I sat down with the fiancee, and got the OK for a 2010 thru. Now, just to figure out and save all the cash needed.
That may be the hardest part.
I am kind of psyched right now :D
mudtoy1986
12-03-2008, 21:13
well planing to hike either march or april of 2010 aiming for march saving as we speak
I am planning on doing my 1st thru-hike in 2010. Looks like I will be going at it alone, unless I can con my buddy ,who tried it two years ago, to join me.
I am very psyched right now though. All of my family is really supporting me. My girlfriend isn't so receptive, but I am sure she will come around, or deal with it.
JoeBanks
12-12-2008, 11:48
I am planning to hike the remainder of the AT starting in Erwin, TN going north in 2010. I hiked from Amicalola to that point this year but would really like to finish the sooner the better, however 2009 is just unrealistic finance wise at this point.
I am still on for 2010 but the way the economy if heading right now is really starting to scare me. I hope it does not stop me from my thru hike. I have the money set aside but I hope that I do not need to dig into it the way things are going.
Doubletime
12-12-2008, 12:25
My wife and I are planning an early march of 010. All the stars have to align, but so far so good.
Chenango
12-12-2008, 17:36
I am back and forth on 2010. Like AT Troll, the economy has me rethinking my retirement decision. I reeeeeeeeealy want to go in 2010.
walkin' wally
12-15-2008, 13:28
I am still on for 2010. Things have changed a lot lately, like other posters say, but I am still going. Exactly 15 months from today. I may have to go back to work after but I don't care. It's time. At least I won't have to stay home and see how bad (maybe) things are. So be it. Onward and upward.:sun
I am still on for 2010. Things have changed a lot lately, like other posters say, but I am still going. Exactly 15 months from today. I may have to go back to work after but I don't care. It's time. At least I won't have to stay home and see how bad (maybe) things are. So be it. Onward and upward.:sun
I here you Wally. I am still on for 2010, just a little concerned. I know when I get done I will have to go back to work, just worried about what the job market will be like.
I will be there on your start date. See you then.
Doubletime
12-15-2008, 15:14
010 is out for me, but 09 is in.
Gorp-Gobbler
12-17-2008, 13:32
I here you Wally. I am still on for 2010, just a little concerned. I know when I get done I will have to go back to work, just worried about what the job market will be like.
I will be there on your start date. See you then.
I was sure wanting to go in 2010, but as it is now, I'm out of work. I believe 2011 is more realalistic for me.
coheterojo
12-19-2008, 21:03
I'm definitely planning to go NOBO in 2010. I gave my 2 year notice at work last year. Who needs a perfectly good job anyways? I plan to leave in late March or late April. I haven't decided yet. I've section hiked from Amicalola Falls to Davenport Gap over the last 4 years. I'll be doing another 81 miles, from Davenport Gap to Sam's Gap, starting next week on the 27th, with a couple of friends.
Section hiking is fun but I've developed a burning desire to do the whole thing in one fell swoop. So here's to 2010!
Well I'm back on WB. I was spending waaayyy too much time here and not taking care of business that I had to ban myself until classes were done. Still on track for 2010.
Chenango
12-20-2008, 20:07
Waiting to hear about a job transfer to Cincinnati. If I get it, then 2010 is definitely out for me. :( On the flip side, I should be financially secure for a 2012 or 2013 hike. :) I guess I am not much of a risk taker when it comes to money for my family. As long as I can continue my monthly hikes, I can wait a little longer. Have fun class of 2010. I will be following you on TJ (if it ever gets fixed).
Well I was all for the AT for 2010, however, the day before Thanksgiving found me laying in a hospital bed after having a minor stroke. I write this from my home in Michigan where I am doing physical therapy and enjoying 9 inches of snow instead of at the barracks living the good life as a Marine in SC with 70+ degree weather. After speaking with my wife and doing a lot of re-evaluation, 2010 is out and weekend jaunts on the NCT will be my alternative. I will be hitting the trail with a guy in PA and another one in TN when I get the chance. Not giving up the dream, must off the table til I can figure out what God has in store for me. PS....I am almost physically back, just some coordination and strength issues.
Tony
Lillianp
12-23-2008, 23:10
Sorry to hear that Tony. I hope that the Thru-Hike becomes part of what God has in store for you. Whenever that happens.
As a soon to be college graduate, I'm still trying to figure out where the money will come from. But its still on, will do whatever in order to get this in the works.
Well I was all for the AT for 2010, however, the day before Thanksgiving found me laying in a hospital bed after having a minor stroke. I write this from my home in Michigan where I am doing physical therapy and enjoying 9 inches of snow instead of at the barracks living the good life as a Marine in SC with 70+ degree weather. After speaking with my wife and doing a lot of re-evaluation, 2010 is out and weekend jaunts on the NCT will be my alternative. I will be hitting the trail with a guy in PA and another one in TN when I get the chance. Not giving up the dream, must off the table til I can figure out what God has in store for me. PS....I am almost physically back, just some coordination and strength issues.
Tony
Keep the spirits up. You will recover. Maybe a 2011 thru will be in store for you.
Retiring in July 2009!!!!!!!! Couple of warm ups and off in March! Ankh
I am planning on doing the hike in 2010. I will be fully retired by then and want to get it accomplished before I get too old. This is number 1 on my list of 10 things I want to do when I retire.
Right now I am seriously considering hiking North to Harper's Ferry and then jump up to Maine and hike South to Harper's Ferry.:)
It's been quite some time since I posted in these forums. The last time was when i was deployed on the USS Fitzgerald floating around in the middle of South China Sea! Well now, I'm in Kuwait and leave for my year long deployment to Afghanistan this EVENING!
In short, I'm totally stoked for this. My enlistment will be up and my dad will be retiring from the army around the same time. I'll be back from Afghanistan (as of right now) Jan 2010. I may extend my deployment closer to my estimated out of service date so I can leave Afghanistan and START my hike! I have yet to decide if I'm going to do the International, or stick to the traditional Katahdin to Springer. This deployment (being tax free and all) is going to allow me the freedom to hike for a couple years IF i so choose. SO! After the AT hopefully ONWARD to finish the tripple crown. WE SHALL SEE!
:banana:sun:D:sun:banana:sun:D:sun:banana
Oh hell, why not throw my hat in the ring? If 2009 goes the way I have it planned I will be in a good place for a 2010 SOBO. I'm never going to stop thinking about it until I go do it.....June 14th 2010 probably...my birthday.
Outdoor ED Teacher
01-01-2009, 20:20
A friend of mine and I are going North beginning March of 2010. Others are welcome to join. I wouldn't mind meeting some others before leaving; I don't know how long my friend's knee will last out there.
Ohio Grown
01-04-2009, 14:19
I'm planning on starting my hike in mid March with an old friend. We started talking about it in high school and it seems the planets are finally starting to align for us. Kind of overwhelmed with where to start. There is a lot of good information here, though.
Thrasher
01-08-2009, 09:46
My wife and I have both asked off for work so we will be going in 2010. We'll probably be leaving in the middle of February. Can't wait! :)
I'm in for 2010. I'm planning multiple shake down hikes in 09. See you on the trail!
ac2rivers
01-11-2009, 17:19
I now plan on attempting my thru-hike in march of 2010. Was planning on going this march but problem with housing has caused me to reschedule. Hope to see you on the trail in 15 months.
Still on for 2010. Will be SO bound the end of May after my son graduates from college. Will also be retired. Starting to do a gear inventory and research on lighter gear I will need to get.
Chiaroscuro
01-16-2009, 20:55
Well, 2010 is looming, and I fear I won't have the finances together either.
Working extra jobs to pay off debt and save for trip, but it's a long way to go. Extra jobs are also preventing a practice trip I want to take.
I may find myself working very near the AT for 3 weeks this summer, so am hopeful of getting some day trips in.
If I have to push it back to 2011, such is life. I was looking forward to perhaps meeting amazonwoman and Roland and others also planning SOBO. Sigh.
Anyway, I haven't given up yet.:eek:
just checking in havent posted in awhile. Next year we gonna be on the trail!
SunnyWalker
01-18-2009, 23:11
I' in (will be) the class of 2013. :-)
Desert Reprobate
01-19-2009, 01:59
I've too decided to pack it in and hit the trail next year. I'll be starting Marchish and can't wait to get on the trail.
Hey SunnyWalker, I just noticed you live in Pampa, which is just "up the road a ways" from me. Nice to see someone else from the panhandle here on WB.
Llano
Crow-Call
01-19-2009, 22:04
I'm hoping to be in the class of 2010 after I graduate university, once I get all my plans figured out...Coming from Canada, it could take a bit of figuring, but I really hope to accomplish this!
HeartFire
01-21-2009, 01:01
I'm planning to head back out in 2010. I'm gonna make it this time!
SawnieRobertson
01-21-2009, 21:30
I'm planning to head back out in 2010. I'm gonna make it this time!
Absolutely, you will! And I hope to see you out there too.--Kinnickinic:banana
NorseWoman
01-26-2009, 18:42
Our 2010 AT thruhike is being postponed till 2011. One hiking partner has job issues and can't get away in 2010. I am not too disappointed as this will give me another year to get in better financial shape as I will have to quit my job. I'll have more time to update some gear also. I will do at least a week on the AT in 2010 and 5 or so shorter AT trips So good luck 2010er's Here I come 2011er's
Nana
Assuming I pass all of my rotations, exams, and practicals, I'll wrap up med school early and be on the trail February 1st! Might be a little lonely, but I start the rest of my life in late June with residency and want to give myself enough time to thru and enjoy the AT. Anybody else heading out early and looking to do some solid miles?
This is the new information I come across.
Lisa11
Camping (http://www.talkingcamping.com)
timebreaks
01-31-2009, 11:27
I would like to to be out on the trail for a NOBO hike in March 2010! I have to see what happens after school ends in May, but I think it may be an opportune time to go.
Leo the True
02-05-2009, 11:14
I should be out on AT by January 2010 going NOBO for Thru. Giving the state of the economy now, I don't think it will change much by 2010. Maybe Obama will give it a new foundation, but it'll take time to rebuild. So I'm down for hiking, anybody else starting at Springer in Jan. 2010?
Retireing in Oct. Heading out of Springer about mid-March. Never did the AT. Hoping to meet some of you on the trip and maybe walk for awhile. I'm in for the journey not the destination. Many pictures and journal of the trip, hope some of you good people will be in it.
Just Lisa
02-05-2009, 23:54
I am planning NOBO thru end of March 2010!
I'm northbound from Springer in 2010!
SOBO 2010... I've done a myriad of dayhikes in N. Georgia and Smokies so I like the thought of finishing in familiar territory. Currently trying to convince some buddies to tag along.
TrailBlazer2010
02-10-2009, 06:27
I plan to start at Springer Mountain, GA in March 2010. Would like to complete the thru hike, and hope to find a partner for the trek. Not a lot of backcountry experience, but am a long distance runner/biker and hope to rise to the challenge. Let me know if you're seeking a partner, too.
I plan to start at Springer Mountain, GA in March 2010. Would like to complete the thru hike, and hope to find a partner for the trek. Not a lot of backcountry experience, but am a long distance runner/biker and hope to rise to the challenge. Let me know if you're seeking a partner, too.
Yes it would always be nice to have a partner. I would like one too but the fact of the matter is that everyone has their own pace and most of the time you are hiking throughout the day you will probably be alone. Everyone usually meets up at the end of the day at either shelters, campsites, or in town. You will usually not be alone at the end of a day. I know ideally have a partner for the whole trip would be aswesome. I will be starting my trip alone also. I will be riding down with another person and we will start the same day but I will probably be lucky if I am with this other person for two days because he hikes fast and does more miles a day then I do. We are just sharing the ride down together.
It now looks like I'll be starting a flip-flop or SOBO in June, '10. Anyone else starting in June?
I should be SOBO in Late May early June.
I've been thinking about a thru hike a good many years, but I'm actually starting to plan for it now. (you guys are contagious :)).
I'm unofficially semi-retired and have some flexibility at this stage of the game, so NOBO Jan 2010 is my current target.
Gear is pretty much in order.
My wife and I live near Damascus.
I think she can re-supply me about once a week up till about Front Royal, so that's a big help.
I've hiked very little of the AT outside my immediate area and am looking forward to the adventure.
See ya out there,
jjj
Lone Wolf
02-10-2009, 21:40
I've been thinking about a thru hike a good many years, but I'm actually starting to plan for it now. (you guys are contagious :)).
I'm unofficially semi-retired and have some flexibility at this stage of the game, so NOBO Jan 2010 is my current target.
Gear is pretty much in order.
My wife and I live near Damascus.
I think she can re-supply me about once a week up till about Front Royal, so that's a big help.
I've hiked very little of the AT outside my immediate area and am looking forward to the adventure.
See ya out there,
jjj
wolf's got your back, J :cool:
I should be SOBO in Late May early June.
Great! I'm still trying to decide between SOBO and flip-flop. I live in Pa, so it would be easy to get to the trail here, hike to Maine, then come back here to start South.
Late May is an early start for SOBO. Are you worried about flies in Maine?
Gorp-Gobbler
02-11-2009, 11:33
Hey Palmer am I to assume you're not going in 2011 now?
Gorp,
Yeah, 2011 now seems unlikely. Last week I tried to tell my boss I wanted to quit my job so I could thru in 2011. He convinced me to take a leave of absence and go in 2010. As of today, there's talk of me taking a promotion, which would probably mean I wouldn't thru until '15. Too many decisions.
Gorp-Gobbler
02-11-2009, 20:35
Great! I'm still trying to decide between SOBO and flip-flop. I live in Pa, so it would be easy to get to the trail here, hike to Maine, then come back here to start South.
Late May is an early start for SOBO. Are you worried about flies in Maine?
Am I to assume you're not going in 011' now Palmer?
Gorp,
Yeah, 2011 now seems unlikely. Last week I tried to tell my boss I wanted to quit my job so I could thru in 2011. He convinced me to take a leave of absence and go in 2010. As of today, there's talk of me taking a promotion, which would probably mean I wouldn't thru until '15. Too many decisions.
If your going to get a promotion and they are still willing to give you a leave of absence in 2015. I would take the promotion and wait.
Gorp-Gobbler
02-12-2009, 10:29
If your going to get a promotion and they are still willing to give you a leave of absence in 2015. I would take the promotion and wait.
Amen to that troll, especially with the job market the way it is right now.
It doesn't look like it will get any better either.
I've been out of work since Nov. 3rd and there is nothing around here.
Some of the Hispanics are thinking about going back to Mexico, it that doesn't say something about the way things are.
Gorp-Gobbler
02-12-2009, 10:31
Oh! Sorry about the double question Palmer.
I was put in a tight spot last week too. They eliminated my job on second shift. I had to bump someone junior to me and move to third shift. I almost quit and packed up to do my thru hike this year. The economy the way it is told me not to. I will be in a lot better position next year financially to d0 it.
Does anyone have a Facebook account. I created a Facebook Appalachian Trail 2010 (http://www.facebook.com/groups/edit.php?success=1&customize=&gid=50820317604#/group.php?gid=50820317604) group.
mambo_tango
02-19-2009, 14:11
so i'm thinking about attempting another thru in 2010 ~ just thinking about it makes me very nervous, a little freaked out and a tad excited.
so i'm thinking about attempting another thru in 2010 ~ just thinking about it makes me very nervous, a little freaked out and a tad excited.
Welcome to the club. I know exactly what you mean.
hard humper
02-19-2009, 14:47
pass the word since i cant figure out how to start a new post class 09 right here leaven feb 20th. you can call me booger. i look foreword to seeing any of all you out on the trail
walkin' wally
02-19-2009, 20:19
I'm still on for mid March 2010. I had a knee exam today. No surgery so far but some therapy needed to make it stronger. I hope this works.
Johnny Paycheck will be singing to my boss at the end of the year if all goes well. ;) :banana:D
I am contemplating a 2010 hike.
kizzybean
02-21-2009, 00:57
I'm hoping to join the class of 2010 as long as none of my adult children plan weddings or such events for that year. My plans are a little unconventional as I'm working on a day hike or short backpack schedule continually as a thru-hike. I started section hiking in 2007 and will get some more miles in this summer before my daughters wedding plans take all my free time.
Kizzy (aka - Pokey Princess)
Hi folks, I'm relatively new to the site. I am planning on a northbound 2010 thru hike. I plan to start in Late February or early March.
Mask&Jono
02-27-2009, 03:19
also new to the site as of today. i plan to go north starting the first week of may and go as far as i can before i have to be back for classes in late august
Desert Reprobate
03-02-2009, 21:23
Looking at the weather for the last couple of days it may pay to start a little later. Next year I planned to start mid Feb. I think I'll plan on a little later start. Depends on the weather next year of course
Lillianp
03-02-2009, 23:14
Yeah, with this cold snap going on here in Ohio, I'm seriously contemplating dealing with the crowds and hiking a little later in march than originally planned. Who knows, maybe I'll be a faster hiker and will be able to at least get past the first shelter half way to the next, therefore avoid some of the crowd.
I'm planning on going 2010 with a friend... would anyone be interested in joining us? Please email me at
[email protected] if so. Thanks!
Hello!
I'm currently planning a SOBO 2010 with a friend.
NOBO Beginning of May 2010!
Leo the True
03-07-2009, 13:31
NOBO Late January. Springer, Georgia. Anyone interested?
BostonAndy
03-07-2009, 23:09
SOBO mid 2010
Im doing the LT this summer to prepare
I am terminating my employment this summer (July) so I can prepare and train for a thru-hike. I plan a mid-March departure for a nobo thru-hike, starting at Springer Mtn. Any Floridians interested in training before then can PM me. I will be making a few assaults on the southern sections GA, NC & TN before next year, leaving from and returning to Jacksonville and points south.
I retired from the Air Force after 30 years and have been planning to NOBO since my deployment over Christmas of '08. :jump
My husband and I have the home rented and are full-time RVing. We're going to spend the summer as campground hosts at Deer Lodge, MT for the summer then back to Florida for the winter. I might be able to find a trail or two to help me increase my fitness level a little more.:D Anyone familiar with the area?
HD Mama.. I have been training here in Florida and so far the best area I have found with any real topography challenge is Torreya State Park just west of Tallahassee. There are numerous trails in Florida including the Florida trail but many of them are without much vertical challenge. Central Florida near suprisingly has a few areas (near Gainesville) that offer some vertical workout but comaparing it to north GA or western N Carolina/ or eastern Tennessee is like apples to oranges. I will be leaving Jacksonville in the fall to make several assaults on the southern end of the AT before I start out for the thru-hike in spring of 2010. If you guys want to try to coordinate a combined effort I'm all ears.. You can PM me through the site..
Try these websites for your research:
http://www.floridatrail.org/
http://www.dep.state.fl.us/gwt/guide/
I'm seriously contemplating a 2010 NOBO, however there are still quite a few "if"s that could change that to a '11 trip, namely work. I can take a LOA, however in my union contract it's written that if I take a LOA, my employer doesn't have to garentee me a job when I return... So if the economy doesn't pick up it'll be a roll of the dice whether I'm employed when I get back...
Even so, I'm planning and training for 2010!
Gorp-Gobbler
03-11-2009, 10:37
I'm seriously contemplating a 2010 NOBO, however there are still quite a few "if"s that could change that to a '11 trip, namely work. I can take a LOA, however in my union contract it's written that if I take a LOA, my employer doesn't have to garentee me a job when I return... So if the economy doesn't pick up it'll be a roll of the dice whether I'm employed when I get back...
Even so, I'm planning and training for 2010!
Hey Medic: Even though I started this thread thinking I'd be able to go in 2010, I had to change my plans to 011.
I begin to wonder if this is going to be feasible as I've been out of steady employment since November of last year.
We still have close to two years so anything is possible. You can always join the class of "2011".
sarahgirl
03-12-2009, 02:34
Im planning for a NOBO thru 2010. I'm a female hanging solo, so if there are any other ladies out there who wanna meet up I would welcome the company. I'm new to hammock camping, so it will be a first out on the trail, and also I might be a little fearful of black bears eating me in the night. Ha. I really would just rather not be eaten alone I think.
HeartFire
03-12-2009, 17:39
I'm planning a 2010 thru. I started a thru in 2006 but ended up with a torn rotator cuff in my shoulder after a fall some where in Va and got off the trail in SNP. In 2007 I went back to SNP and got as far as Mass. People tell me I should just go back to Mass and finish the last 4 states. I want to do a thru hike instead. Am I nuts? I'm also feeling very guilty about taking off and leaving my husband for months at a time AGAIN.
sarahgirl
03-13-2009, 03:07
No you're not nuts! I did a nice chunk of it back in 01, and have dreamed about a thru since then. I'm at a good time in my life for it though, single, no kids, my legs work, I'm not dying in a hospital somewhere. I've got to take advantage of all these things. Sorry to hear about your injury :( You must have a very understanding husband:) good luck whatever you decide!
Well, maybe I'll see you ladies on the trail. When are you planning on starting?
HeartFire
03-16-2009, 14:03
I'm hoping to start very early March
sarahgirl
03-17-2009, 02:50
I don't know...I keep changing the date. Original date was march 25th I think. Nothing is set in stone though, who knows maybe I will get a wild hair and start in Feb. I prefer fall hiking. Would rather be cold than hot!
I will be on Springer one year from tomorrow. I will also be hiking solo and hope see some of you next year. A year seems like a long time but I expect it will go by fast.
Lillianp
03-19-2009, 19:41
Sarahgirl, I too will be a solo woman/girl hiker. I'd be willing to at least entertain starting with you-it would definitely relieve some of the fears my family has been having! I'm thinking of starting earlyish March, probably around the 10th or a bit later. I'm worried about finding a job until next February, but hopefully, that'll work. I'll sell my car if it comes to that! :-P
my name is carl and i'm planning a northbound thru-hike for 2010. been wanting to do the at my whole life and at 51, have decided i will wait no longer.
i'm considering shooting the trip with a high quality 3 chip DV camera.
i know it will be somewhat cumbersome. that's why i am only considering it at this stage. does anyone know of a lightweight case/pouch that i could hang around my neck or strap to my chest with a 6 lb camera inside. one that would be comfortable for a long trip.
i'm hoping to keep my pack weight down to a maximum of 30 lbs with food and water which i think is doable. now add a camera and tripod....not so sure.
at any rate, feel free to respond or email me.
i'll be a solo hiker and though i know i will crave those days of solitude, i would very much like to get to know the community for the coming year so we may already be friends when i see you on springer.
here's to the beginning of dream fulfillment...
carl
Carl, I am right there with you. I will be 50 years old next year and I don't want to put it off any longer. I figure if I wait any longer then I may pass my window of opportunity.
If you are really serious about carrying the camera and tripod then what I would do is try a couple long distance hikes carrying it before you tackle carrying it on your thru hike next year. I would hate to see you start your thru hike and find out then that it may be to cumbersome to carry around.
you are absolutely right about that, at troll.
i will need several shakedown hikes to see if it's something i want to do, but i need some additional equipment first, before i can really try it out.
it is more important to me to hike the trail and LIVE the trail then it is to document it, but i would love to do both if i can.
i make documentaries for the local pbs station and right now i'm working on one that has to do with the emotional and psychological effects of entering middle age (ie, over 50.) i'm thinking that incorporating an at thru-hike would be a wonderful aligory. but by the same token, i don't want to ruin my OWN thru-hike experience.
nice to meet you, at troll.
cflamm & attroll.. I will also be attempting a northbound thru hike starting next March. I am 51.. Maybe we should let cflamm film the whole thing and we can have our own reality show.. Ha Ha!
Seriously though.. cflamm...I am doing quite a bit of training before then on parts of the Florida trail and I plan to make a few trips GA, NC & TN between now and spring of next year to get myself acquainted with those sections of the trail. If you are interested in trying to go just let me know.. send me a PM.
Yeah it could be a reality show called "The Fearsome 50's" or "The Old Timers" or even "The Last One Standing".
What do you thin Cflamm are you going to film us?
walkin' wally
03-21-2009, 20:38
Gee, what is with all these 50 somethings anyways?? Bunch of young pups.:rolleyes::-?:D See you guys there....
Gee, what is with all these 50 somethings anyways?? Bunch of young pups.:rolleyes::-?:D See you guys there....
OK, I forgot we do have one old fart in the bunch.
didymus128
03-21-2009, 22:22
i'm heading out may 15, 2010. Anyone else leaving this late?
myself and 2 friends plan to head out about a week earlier than that, so our paths may cross!
how many of you 45+ers are just taking a leave from your job, or are well-suited money-wise, and are leaving your house in the hands of someone else?
in order to make this dream finally come true, i'm probably going to have to quit the job (and security) that i've had for 16 years.
i also will be selling my house so i don't have to worry about mortgage payments.
probably sell a good deal of my furniture and stuff as well so i don't have to store it. i could also use the money to finance the trip as well.
the big question is, what do i do when i finish the trail (providing i finish the trail?)
well, the short answer is i plan to work somewhere for 6 months, save as much as possible, then do the pct. afterward, if i'm still alive, do the same thing for 6 months then hike the cdt.
now you might say that i am being foolish planning like this and leaving myself no net if things don't work out on the trail. and if i were a young tot i might agree. but at 51, and after dreaming about this my ENTIRE life (no kidding) if things DON'T work out on the trail, i have absolutely no idea what i will do with the rest of my life, so i'll be starting from scratch again anyway.
i almost feel like i need to corner myself into leaving no choice but to get on the trail in 2010, because i'm afraid if i don't back myself into a corner, i may never take the leap to hike the AT at all.
really really really so want to do the trail in 2010. but very afraid of losing security.
does any of this make sense? inputs welcome.
thanks
In order to make this dream happen I will also be quitting my job and leaving the hoouse in the hands on my wife.
What I will do after I finish the trail is also a big concern of mine. I planned for this hike years ago so I have been putting money aside for years. Currently I have enough money set aside to do a thru hike at this time. The only reason I am not thru hiking this year is because the timing is not right. I have to many other things going on now that is preventing me from doing it this year. I will have to come back to my house and wife and hopefully get back into the job market. Now that is the scary part.
I have also thought about doing the PCT next or biking across the United States. When I tell my wife that she says "you think your going to leave me eaver summer for six month you have another things coming". I will have to work on her. The main thing is that I have to complete this thru hike first. I don't think you foolish because I am already thinking a head in the same manner but then again maybe I am foolish too.
If you really that worried about scurity maybe you should pospone it for another year or two to put some money aside.
I will be leaving my husband to take care of the house and kid. After returning to school a number of years ago I will finally be getting my degree in December of this year and will be postponing looking for a job or applying for grad school until after my thru hike. I figure if I don't do it now I will never have another chance, luckily my husband agrees with me that this will be the best time for me to do this.
Attroll, I also have dreams of hiking another long trail (the CDT), but don't tell my husband, he would have the same kind of response as your wife. :D
"If you really that worried about scurity maybe you should pospone it for another year or two to put some money aside.[/QUOTE]"
very good point, attroll, but then i will always be able to find something to be worried or insecure about if i look hard enough, and if i let it, fear of the unknown will keep me off the trail forever.
my name is carl and i'm planning a northbound thru-hike for 2010. been wanting to do the at my whole life and at 51, have decided i will wait no longer.
i'm considering shooting the trip with a high quality 3 chip DV camera.
i know it will be somewhat cumbersome. that's why i am only considering it at this stage. does anyone know of a lightweight case/pouch that i could hang around my neck or strap to my chest with a 6 lb camera inside. one that would be comfortable for a long trip.
i'm hoping to keep my pack weight down to a maximum of 30 lbs with food and water which i think is doable. now add a camera and tripod....not so sure.
at any rate, feel free to respond or email me.
i'll be a solo hiker and though i know i will crave those days of solitude, i would very much like to get to know the community for the coming year so we may already be friends when i see you on springer.
here's to the beginning of dream fulfillment...
carlWay back in the bad of days of heavy SLRs, I carried mine in a Dana Design Dry Rib Pocket. It attached to the shoulder straps of any backpack and stretched across the front of your chest/belly. A bit heavy at close to a pound, but it was large and sturdy.
They don't make them any more, but you might find one online. There is one on eBay now:
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=110364558907
I used a short (12" tripod) which I have since replaced with a short lightweight 6" tripod.
If you needed something taller, and can make do with a monopod, you can get one without the weight penalty if you mount a bolt with the right tripod-mount threads onto the top of one of your hiking poles. Unless you are doing a very long exposure, a monopod is usually enough to steady the camera.
thanks frosty. i have a wet rib too from my dana bridger. it's great, but not nearly big enough.
maybe i should just use a padded stuff sack and keep the camera in my pack. but that means having to take it out and put it away every time i use it. might miss a lot of stuff that way.
thanks for the suggestion though frosty.
thanks frosty. i have a wet rib too from my dana bridger. it's great, but not nearly big enough.
maybe i should just use a padded stuff sack and keep the camera in my pack. but that means having to take it out and put it away every time i use it. might miss a lot of stuff that way.Yes, keeping a camera in your main pack is not the way to go. It isn't just that it's a pain in the butt, but you can forget about getting animal shots, and when it's late inthe afternoon and you're tired, it is hard to get up the energy to be bothered to take pictures.
One other possiblility. I've traveled a bit, and I use a backpack for all my stuff, and a day pack for sightseeing, leaving my main pack in a locker in a hostel. When traveling between cities/hostels, etc I wear both packs at once, putting my day pack in front. This works amazingly well and actually help balance. Not sure I'd want to do that 8 hours a day for five months, though.
If you, or someone you know, is handy, you could take a big fanny pack and attach one end permanently to you hip belt and attach the snap end of the belt to the other side of hte hip belt. The after you put on your apck, you just snap in the fanny pack. But if you try somethign like this I would definately try it out on weekend hikes first.
The Lion King may not read this thread. Try PMing him and ask how he manages his camera equipment.
Good luck.