View Full Version : Neels Gap to Dicks Creek Gap in 4 days?
So, my gf and I are planning a hike for Labor Day Week/end. We were planning a 5 day hike starting at Amicalola and finishing at Neels Gap. We have decided to extend our hiking days to 9 days.
We will still start at Amicalola and are planning on hitting Black Gap Shelter or Springer Mtn Shelter on day 1, day 2 to Hawk Mtn Shelter, day 3 to Gooch Mtn Shelter, and day 4 to Wood Hole Shelter. On day 5 we will stop at Neels Gap and shower, wash up our hiking clothes, restock our food supplies and maybe pick up some more gear. We would like to take a minute to look around at some of the gear and talk with some people, grab something to eat and then get back on the trail and make it to Bull Gap and stay at the campground on the 5th night. Question about the campground (Bull Gap Campground), is this a campground where we would have to make reservations or pay? If so we were thinking about maybe stealth camping somewhere round abouts here. (Is that legal?)
From there were not sure. I would really love to make it to the GA/NC border but I dont think we want to push that much. I was wondering about this: day 6 to Low Gap Shelter, day 7 to Rocky MTN Campground (and if so is this another reservation/pay site, or how about the stealth camping?) and on day 8 to Deep Gap Shelter. On day 9 we would need to catch a ride back to Amicalola, so we were thinking about hitting Dicks Creek Gap to catch that ride on day 9. Of course this leg (from Neels Gap on) is not finalized, we are asking for some input on this part of the trail!
We were thinking we could set up a ride for our end destination while we were at Walasi-Yi on day 5. Would that be an ok time frame to try to set up a ride, or should we begin our search before this time?
Thanks for any info, we will gladly take all that is given!!
So heres a rough breakdown with daily mileages:
(Based on 2009 Thru Hikers Companion)
Day 1: Amicalola to Springer Mtn Shelter: 9 miles
Day 2: SMS to Hawk Mtn Shelter: 7.6 miles
Day 3: HMS to Gooch Mtn Shelter: 7.3 miles
Day 4: GMS to Woods Hole Shelter: 11.9 miles
Day 5: WHS to Bull Gap Campground: 4.8 miles
Day 6: BGC to Low Gap Shelter: 9.7 miles
Day 7: LGS to Rocky Mtn Campground: 10.7 miles
Day 8: RMC to Deep Gap Shelter: 11.8 miles
Day 9: DGS to Dicks Creek Gap: 3.5 miles
This is a total of 76.3 miles over 9 days. Also we are newbie hikers. This will be our first real hike, other than day hikes we have done around our hometown.
Any comments or suggestions on this would be greatly appreciated! Thanks!
Mileage is very doable tho I've not heard of the 2 campground you mentioned.
Enjoy your hike! :)
Survivor Dave
07-09-2009, 21:21
Mileage is very doable tho I've not heard of the 2 campground you mentioned.
Enjoy your hike! :)
Sure you have! We hiked by one of them on the way to Wildcat. Bull Gap about 0.9 miles past Neel Gap on the left.:)
I don't remember the other one. I think it's on the mountain just past Unicoi Gap.
I think he meant campsite instead of campground.
Dances with Mice
07-09-2009, 21:26
Question about the campground (Bull Gap Campground), is this a campground where we would have to make reservations or pay? If so we were thinking about maybe stealth camping somewhere round abouts here. (Is that legal?)No fee or reservations anywhere north of Amicalola FSP. At all. Bull Gap is just a wide spot in the trail, campsites on both sides. Nice enough area but if you want to push further there are other campsites available all along the way.
From there were not sure. I would really love to make it to the GA/NC border but I dont think we want to push that much. I was wondering about this: day 6 to Low Gap Shelter, day 7 to Rocky MTN Campground (and if so is this another reservation/pay site, or how about the stealth camping?) Again no fees or reservations but it's easy enough to walk from Low Gap to Tray Mtn instead. The Rocky Mtn campsite is a shoulder of the mountain about 50'ish yards past a small spring that you'll have to step across during the climb up Rocky.
and on day 8 to Deep Gap Shelter. On day 9 we would need to catch a ride back to Amicalola, so we were thinking about hitting Dicks Creek Gap to catch that ride on day 9. Of course this leg (from Neels Gap on) is not finalized, we are asking for some input on this part of the trail!
We were thinking we could set up a ride for our end destination while we were at Walasi-Yi on day 5. Would that be an ok time frame to try to set up a ride, or should we begin our search before this time?Give them a call ahead of time, before you leave for Amicalola. They would probably appreciate that more than if you just showed up asking for a shuttle.
Your plan looks fine but consider going from Low Gap to Tray Mtn, it's an easy trail leaving Low Gap Shelter most of the way to Blue Mtn. Once over Rocky take a break and see how you feel. The worst part of that day's hike will already be behind you. If you don't feel like going all the way to Tray then the Cheese Factory is another nice campsite with water further along the way.
Sure you have! We hiked by one of them on the way to Wildcat. Bull Gap about 0.9 miles past Neel Gap on the left.:)
I don't remember the other one. I think it's on the mountain just past Unicoi Gap.
I think he meant campsite instead of campground.
Ok, "campground" threw me for a loop. ;)
kolokolo
07-09-2009, 21:34
My son and I camped at Bull Gap two weeks ago. It's just a sort of a clearing near the trail. There is no charge. We didn't encounter any campsites in Georgia that needed reservations or charged, although if you get away from the trail you might find some that do.
As for setting up a ride, you can probably find Cool Breeze at Neels Gap and set up something with him.
max patch
07-09-2009, 23:00
Since this is your first hike, and you're a couple, I'd suggest you'd consider staying a night at the cabins at neels gap (unless you have a tight budget). It'd be a nice break.
Sorry guys about the "campground" as I did mean campsite. And I noticed that the elevation changes (again according to the 09 Thru Hikers Companion) werent real drastic past Neels Gap, except for a few places (not implying its a walk in the park either though!).
I would really like to end our hike at Muskrat Creek Shelter in NC, but I dont want to set my mileage high and not get to enjoy the hike, or hurt myself, or my gf, thinking that we have to be this far by this time. This is a big reason that I was wanting to wait and try to set up a pick up at Walasi-Yi. At least by this time we would have an idea of the kind of mileage we may be able to accomplish and be able to come up with a more definate pick up spot. I would be afraid that I would set up a point and then either miss it or feel that I had to drag it out to make the meeting. (That make sense?)
Also, we were wondering about bear activities in GA. We were planning on staying near the shelters instead of in them but have read that sometimes bears are more active around shelters since thats kind of a known spot for "food." Would it be "safer" to actually not stay near a shelter, but instead just at random campsites?
Oh, and bear spray, I think we will be getting some, but how necessary is it???......
We have talked about staying in a lodge or cabin along the way, but I am really wanting to stay in the tent as much as possible. We were planning on spending some time at Walasi-Yi to "freshen" up. Take showers and wash our hiking clothes and what not....but we will see!!
And how about campfires? Are they typical along the AT, in this part?
Sorry for all the questions, but I really do appreciate all the replys so far, so please keep them coming!!!!
Thanks
"safe" is relative - if you're camping near the shelters and hanging your food on the bear cables, I wouldn't worry about bears.
bear spray - I brought it on my last trip (wife insisted, and was with my son)...regretted the weight all week. I won't again.
campfires - another advantage of staying near the shelters - there's always a fire ring, and fires are "typical."
enjoy your hike!
Sorry guys about the "campground" as I did mean campsite. And I noticed that the elevation changes (again according to the 09 Thru Hikers Companion) werent real drastic past Neels Gap, except for a few places (not implying its a walk in the park either though!).
I would really like to end our hike at Muskrat Creek Shelter in NC, but I dont want to set my mileage high and not get to enjoy the hike, or hurt myself, or my gf, thinking that we have to be this far by this time. This is a big reason that I was wanting to wait and try to set up a pick up at Walasi-Yi. At least by this time we would have an idea of the kind of mileage we may be able to accomplish and be able to come up with a more definate pick up spot. I would be afraid that I would set up a point and then either miss it or feel that I had to drag it out to make the meeting. (That make sense?)
Also, we were wondering about bear activities in GA. We were planning on staying near the shelters instead of in them but have read that sometimes bears are more active around shelters since thats kind of a known spot for "food." Would it be "safer" to actually not stay near a shelter, but instead just at random campsites?
Oh, and bear spray, I think we will be getting some, but how necessary is it???......
We have talked about staying in a lodge or cabin along the way, but I am really wanting to stay in the tent as much as possible. We were planning on spending some time at Walasi-Yi to "freshen" up. Take showers and wash our hiking clothes and what not....but we will see!!
And how about campfires? Are they typical along the AT, in this part?
Sorry for all the questions, but I really do appreciate all the replys so far, so please keep them coming!!!!
Thanks
We will definately be hanging our food!! And an other smellables. We were actually planning on hanging our packs as well. Is that acceptable, or even recommended?
Trailweaver
07-10-2009, 00:54
I am very familiar with the area you are planning to hike. As "newbies" I think you may be stretching it a bit. I would need to know how heavy your packs are, and how good your backpacking skills are to be certain, but I can say that the elevation gains you will be hiking are strenuous at times for new hikers.
I would suggest that you not hike the Amicalola approach trail but start instead at Springer's parking lot off the Forest Service Road 42. That is one elevation that you could do without. From the parking lot, you would hike to the top of Springer (sans pack even, as it's about a mile), do your photo op, then come back to the parking lot and begin your way to Hawk Mountain, passing the Springer shelter as it's just a short hike in from there.
Making your packs as light as you can, but taking a tent is a good idea as there won't be any "lodges" for you - just shelters. There are numerous campsites along the way if you feel you just cannot make it to the shelter, but the shelters are generally close enough to get from one to the next.
Another suggestion for you is that you take the phone number for the Hiker Hostel, located in Dahlonega, GA. It is 770/312-7342. Leigh and Josh Saint are the owners of this hiker's heaven, and they will pick you up and deliver you to wherever you need to be taken should you need to cut your trip short, take a shower, re-supply food, etc. They know the trail in the area and will be able to meet you anywhere along the route. Their charges are reasonable, and you could talk to them prior to your departure.
Bear spray will not be necessary. The bears are typically afraid of you and will run when they see you. That being said, don't be stupid and approach one of them. If you see one, back away slowly, make noise, etc., and stay away from mamma bears with cubs. Do not sleep with food in your tent, and use the bear cables where they are provided. There is one at Springer's shelter.
Campfires are done only in the fire rings at the shelters, and if there isn't a fire ring established where you camp, please don't make a new one. Trail maintainers will not love you for making new ones that they have to clean up. Fires are sometimes nice, but you don't have to make one. . . cook on your stove and save the energy for hiking the next day. You're going to be tired. Why trot around gathering firewood?
Sorry. . . didn't mean to get longwinded.
Hope you have a wonderful time, but do take phone numbers of Hiker Hostel and Walasi-Yi, as they do shuttle service, and you may need it.
Trailweaver, I dont have scales to weigh our packs and even still, we are still getting a few of our things so its hard to say right now. I am shooting for 35-40 for myself and 25 for my gf, if that helps. (I am 5'11", 200#s and my gf is 5'1" 95#s.) As far as our skills, we havent been hiking in the kind of conditions that is described as this portion of the AT, however we are out and about as much as possbile. So while we arent experts, we are pretty familiar with toting our packs around and with the equipment we do have.
And I really want to start at Amicalola, Im not sure why, it just seems right to me to do so. Even though its not part of the "AT" somehow it seems it is to me and I would be missing out on the first of it. I am going to be one of those picky people that want to begin and end pretty much at exact points, so well see....
And yes, we really have no desire to stay in a shelter, lodge or cabin, unless we have to. I would like to stay in my tent every chance that is available! Besides thats why I bought it, and why Im carrying it!! It only makes sense.
Thank you for the phone numbers. I have already contacted Josh and Leigh for a ride from Neels Gap but now our schedule has changed so I may plan on calling them closer to time and talking with them. Like I said, the hardest part is gong to be a pick up spot, I dont want to push it and get hurt, and we definately want to enjoy being out there!! But I will definately put this number and the number for Walasi-Yi in my phonebook.
As far as bears, I couldnt imagine why anyone would want to walk up to one!!! Thats crazy, but at the same time, you can never know about bears. They are animals, the same as dogs, and I have been around many friendly dogs that have bitten people, so you just never know. I would rather know that I had some sort of protection and not needed it than the other way around! I have been reading up on bears as much as I can on the internet and thinking of ordering some books to read before hand to. Bears are serious, I want to come out of the woods alive, so I will definately treat them seriously!
And as far as fires, I love a fire, it makes the night, but I agree with you, I wouldnt want to fun around finding wood, then staying up all night to make sure its out then cleaning it up in the mornings to stay with the LNT guidelines. Also, have you tried to sleep while others are around a campfire? I cant hardly do it, the talking, laughing, and the flickering lights! Dont get me wrong, thats good times, but not when you are trying to sleep, which is another reason that I would not prefer to stay at a shelter. However, those bear cables.....
Anyway, thanks for all the good info! We are looking forward to being out there on the trail!!
Trailweaver
07-10-2009, 01:45
Get some bathroom scales, weigh yourself, then your "loaded" pack. You should not have more than 25% of your body weight be your pack weight. Shoot for less than 40 lbs.
Don't worry too much about the bears. These are black bears, and they are afraid of people. The Smokey Mountain bears have become accustomed to people and are different - a little more "brave" about approaching people. The bears near Springer are going to run away when they see you. I did (accidentally) walk right up on one which was just beside the trail around Dick's Creek and when it saw me, it sprinted away.
If you start hiking at Springer and hike north, just hike as far as you can and then call the Hiker Hostel . . . they'll come get you wherever you are. That way you really won't have to worry about where you will "come out." Obviously, you'll want to plan your food for however many days you think it will take, but if you run out, again, the HH will fix that - take you into town if you need a re-supply. They are really that good. And. . . for a night in comfortable surroundings, they do have a queen-sized bed/room available. Have you gone on their website?
My son and I went SOBO from Dicks Creek to Neel in 3 days. We travel lite. I would suggest SOBO because its easier to get picked up at Amicalola than at Dicks Creek. Amicalola has phones, and other amminities. Dicks Creek is a wide spot in the middle of nowhere. If you are going to use a shuttle I would park at Amicalola, and get shuttled to Dicks Creek, and hike SOBO back to your car.
bloodmountainman
07-10-2009, 05:56
Nine days is plenty of time to do this hike.
You will probably not have a problem with the bears. They are truely skittish creatures and they do avoid humans.
Be advised there is a camp-fire ban through the Blood Mt wilderness area.
Blisters are the main reason folks get off the trail early in Ga., so toughen up those feet and have good footware.
I live in the area and will offer any assistance (town ride, resupply, first aid. etc.) Send a PM for phone # if you desire.
Have a good hike and welcome to Georgia
bloodmountainman
07-10-2009, 06:09
During late summer, the number one "danger" is not the black bear.It is the lowly yellow jacket. They get a little aggressive that time of year.;)
Bloodnountainman, thanks for the warning about the yellow jackets, I would have not expected those! And I know how mean they can be! Was one of my worst child hood expierences, stirring up a nest of those things....it didnt turn out good!! I wonder though, we will be using permethrin treated clothes and Ultrathon lotion on exposed body parts, so will these deterents help with the yellow jackets?
And yes, boots.....I still have to get mine. I have been walking in my regular tennies in the mornings with 50 #s of dirt in my bag tring to get conditioned for carrying the bag. But yes, I am going to get my boots this coming weekend and start breaking them in. I am torn between the Vasque Breezes GTX, the Merrell Moab Ventilators GTX, and a pair of Timberland Chocura GTX. Question though, my gf really wants to get a pair of the Merrell Moab Ventialtors in a low cut. I advised no, but what does everyone else think?
And yes I am going to pick up a bathroom scale and do the weighing trick, but we also plan on getting another weight before we leave Amicalola on thier scales!
Jessie, I havent really put alot of thought into the SOBO hike, for some reason I think I would get more enjoyment going NOBO, I dont know, I guess I would feel like I was still moving away from everyday life, and coming back south feels like coming back home. Wierd huh? We will discuss this option more though, thanks for the idea!
Trailweaver, that would be great if we do go NOBO and are able to give Josh and Leigh a call when we finish up on Saturday. The hardest part for me right now is trying to figure out a for sure ending place. I am planning on calling them sometime in the next few weeks to discuss my situation with them and see what works out from there. Bloodmountainman, I may get back with you on a ride if for some reason the ther doesnt work out. I will keep checking back on this forum and get back with you when time gets alittle closer. Thank you for the offer though.
As far as food, we know that it will be a 9 day hike (if all goes as planned, or at least close to plan, you know....) so we will restock for 4 days worth of food at Walasi -Yi. However agian here it would be nice to know that the HH would be able to be available if needed.
Another question, cell phone service. I have mine with CellularSouth (not sure how big they are but I think its a "Southern" thing. My gfs is with AT&T. Is anyone familiar with the coverage of wither of these two companys along this part of the trail?
Again, thanks for everything! Please keep it coming!!
Ghosthiker
07-10-2009, 15:22
I use an AT&T phone and I can usually get good coverage on peaks with it.
bigmac_in
07-10-2009, 16:09
There is nothing wrong with your original plan, it is definitely do-able, even for newbie hikers. Don't be afraid of bears. Enjoy yourselves.
thats an awesome hike! the wife and i hiked from amicolola falls to neels gap over the july fourth weekend! the folks at mountain crossings are amazing! hyoh! have fun and be safe! :)
Droptop, what was the weather like on your trip? Temps for night and day? And how did you go about your shuttle? Did you set it up well in advance?
Trailweaver
07-12-2009, 02:28
I just got back here and found a question about the phone service. I have AT&T and have had a bit of trouble with reception on the AT, but not much. Service is certainly better on the peaks, but I've always been able to reach the HH. I do hear that Verizion is a little stronger there.
I do recommend having ankle support for this trail. . . whatever your gf's shoe choice, make sure it has that since you'r newbies. And, you do know to wear two pairs of socks? One is the thin nylon pair (liners) and the other is the wool socks to wick away sweat. This prevents blisters.
Thanks Trailweaver. We are hoping that we dont even really hae to turn our phones on except for maybe at nights to call families and let them know that we are still ok. I thought about a spot for this, but its more money than we want to spend right now.
Also, I have tried out the 2 pair (liners and thick wool) and to me it feels like my foot is slideing more with the 2 pair. It seemed to do better with just a pair of medium smartwool hiking socks. I will try it out some more around home, but right now Im thinking I will probably use the one pair of hiking socks.
Thanks again for the info. Also, we are still wondering about the (possible) temperatures we can expect.
Thanks
w.a.s.h.a.d.
07-12-2009, 17:49
Sounds like it will be a lot of fun. I hope to be on the FHT with my nephew that weekend.
For overall pack weight, a reasonably accurate bathroom scale works fine. If you are trying to shave weight, you'll probably have to get more details on the items you are packing. (I really like the "Escali" digital scale from Amazon -- $25. Very accurate and weighs items up to 11 lbs. Split the cost with a fellow hiker/backpacker and share it.) As someone still fairly new to backpacking myself, I can already attest to the smile factor of losing a few pounds from my pack.
Finally, as so many in this forum have pointed out, experience is a great teacher. If you two can do even one weekend trip together on a similar trail before Labor Day, it will really help you decide what works best. Better to discover a really annoying flaw on a weekend than on your first day of a multi-day trip.
Enjoy!
w.a.s.h.a.d., thanks for the heads up on the scale, Ill give it a look-see later tonight! I do agree with you on the bigger smile with less weight, I can tell that with the few expierences I already have!! And while I have made some purchases that I will upgrade eventually because of the fact, I did figure it out pretty early in my purchases and have made some (what I would call) wiser choices on alot of my acquired gear. Especially for my gf, she did not start with her purchases until after I had made some of these discoveries, and was able to make better decisions so she has benefited from this from the beginnig of her purchases!
And we are keeping our eyes out for weekend trips, its very difficult for us though because we both take call at our jobs (a hospital) so if ones not one call usually the other is! We have been making these plans for September since this past March. I have already made plans for next March/April to pick up where we leave off and hit another 9 days so thats cool!
Thanks for the info!
Trailweaver
07-12-2009, 20:47
Don't do Blood Mt. SOBO. . . too much rock climbing that way.
Lone Wolf
07-12-2009, 20:49
Don't do Blood Mt. SOBO. . . too much rock climbing that way.
you ever hiked up north? :) i would hardly consider blood mtn. rocky or tough
you ever hiked up north? :) i would hardly consider blood mtn. rocky or tough
Hahaha no :) But considering this will be our first "real hike" as compared to the hills that we have here in North MS, Im imagining it as rocky and tough!! At least if Im wrong my feelings wont really be hurt...;)
Sorry that wasnt to me huh? Oh well, it still applies though! And we will be NOBO, just for the record.
MikenSalem
07-12-2009, 21:31
I just finished that section last weekend. I used a BB on AT&T no problems with signals at camps. Water is good something every 3 or 4 miles. Those bears are used to being hunted unlike the GSM's and run when they saw me, hogs too. DO overs - Stay atop Big Cedar there's a weep spring there for water views are good, Stay atop Blood Mt. pack water from Slaughter Creek views are awesome! Deep Gap Shelter has something climbing the bear rigging, or a flying squirrel, eating into packs. I thought it was a joke turns out it wasn't. Hang your food on the rigging, hang your pack near your bed. Water is plentiful this year but will soon start to fade as the table drops right now not a problem every 3 or 4 miles. My temps were in the mid 80's, were in the 90's here at home (W of Clemson SC) nighttime saw the upper 50's I LIKED IT! hammock camping is the bomb. You can drop a box at Neels gap for a dollar. You can mail home whatever you don't want to keep packing and buy what you need. Hot weather = smelly dorms - camp out! nuff said. Walking downhill for hours will kill your feet if you're not used to your shoes, I pray you buy some tomorrow. Also cut off your toenails, downhills will force them into the growth section.
Mikensalem, thanks for the update!
I have a BB but Im with Cellular South, my gf has an iPhone and with At&T but like I said we are only planning on using them at camp to call famalies and let them know we are still making it!
Thanks for the tips on the bears, but I still think that we are going to carry some bear spray, better safe than sorry!
I have debated staying at Blood Mtn, but Im not sure. Seems like its a very happening place, and I am looking forward to campsites that are somewhat empty. The most intrest I have in staying at a shelter is that there are bear cables in place, but if needed we will just hang our own at campsites We will just have to see though.
We have a daily itenerary (as posted in the first post) but we are going to see day to day. Like I said I would love to make it across the GA/NC line and the above itenerary doesnt quite make it, so we will see. We will definately keep an eye out for the flying squirrel at Deep Gap Shelter if we stay there! Question though, you say to hang our packs near our beds. We are using a tent (we want to try the hammocks but not yet) so do you mean on a tree limb near our tent? We are going to leave all the pockets open of course, but if it looks like rain we will put our rain cover over them at night. Will they not eat through a rain cover too though, sure they would. Anyway, we were originaly thinking of hanging them next to our bear sacks.
I think that every chance we get we will be toping off our water. We both have 100 oz Camelbaks and I plan on carrying a .75L Camelbak bottle. Im not sure if my gf will be carrying anything more than here bladder. This maybe a little overdoing it, I dont know, but its my plans!
Man those temps seem almost just right! Maybe just a little warm, but mid 50's at night, hope its the same in September!!
I will be getting my boots this weekend and I will wear them every chance I get! I want to be very familiar with them. Thanks for the warning though!!
pyroman53
07-12-2009, 23:21
Did this section a couple years ago, during the drought (Springer to Unicoi). Only problem was water (due to drought). Keep phone number for Hiker Hostel, and they'll pick you up wherever you are, if need be. Resupply at Neels to keep ypur load light. Don't worry about the details. That's all you have to worry about once you start and you'll work it out. Bears should be no problem. And so what if they are, plenty of bail out locations to resupply and get back on. This is probably the most historic section of the AT for me (since so many thru-hikers at least make it though most of this section and journal about it) and it is awesome country. Stop at Neel Gap, meet Winton, and see the hostel that everyone writes about Enjoy a night there and a shower. One of the finest showers ever! Not nice, but one you'll appreciate like no other. We did it late September, highs in low 90's. lows in mid 50's. VERY hot going up Sassafras Mtn. 90% RH (hard on an AZ guy!). No bugs, NO problemas! Its awesome. Relax and enjoy. You've got plenty of time to do this, so you should have a great time. I gotta say, I was sore after a few days, sorer after 5 days. Ready to go after that. You won't want to get off after 9 days, You'll feel strong and ready to keep going up the other side of the Gap when its all over. Remember that feeling...its one of those feelings that haunt me and keep me dreaming about doing longer sections of trail,(not just a week). The GA mtns are great.
MikenSalem
07-12-2009, 23:27
The BB was awesome I got the web and email and laughed because I had no intention of answering anyone! Cept the wife, can't make her mad else I'll do a forced thru hike to the house... I'm sure you'll both have a great time. Oh the best advise for bears never let your girlfriend smear you with peanut butter thinking she's being a little kinky, not good-not good at all. Bears like peanut butter covered idiots best of all... Anybody seen my rubber arm??
gearfreak
07-13-2009, 11:36
I'd consider camping somewhere vs. adding a mile roundtrip out and back to Woods Hole Shelter. Maybe shorten this day and add that mileage to your following day which is short. :cool:
unclehud
07-14-2009, 22:39
So, my gf and I are planning a hike for Labor Day Week/end. We were planning a 5 day hike starting at Amicalola and finishing at Neels Gap. We have decided to extend our hiking days to 9 days.
Day 1: Amicalola to Springer Mtn Shelter: 9 miles
Day 2: SMS to Hawk Mtn Shelter: 7.6 miles
Day 3: HMS to Gooch Mtn Shelter: 7.3 miles
Day 4: GMS to Woods Hole Shelter: 11.9 miles
Day 5: WHS to Bull Gap Campground: 4.8 miles
Day 6: BGC to Low Gap Shelter: 9.7 miles
Day 7: LGS to Rocky Mtn Campground: 10.7 miles
Day 8: RMC to Deep Gap Shelter: 11.8 miles
Day 9: DGS to Dicks Creek Gap: 3.5 miles
This is a total of 76.3 miles over 9 days. Also we are newbie hikers. This will be our first real hike, other than day hikes we have done around our hometown.
Any comments or suggestions on this would be greatly appreciated! Thanks!
Your itinerary is reasonable; my little doggie and I did all 80 Georgia miles in 7 days last September. My I offer the following advice?
1. Dick's Creek Gap is indeed a wide spot in the road with no cell phone service. SOBO is better because you end up in civilized Amicalola.
2. You're crazy to start at the bottom of Amicalola, but hey, we're all crazy, right? At least consider starting at the top of the falls. The approach trail isn't trivial, and swallowing all nine miles on day one will be a challenge.
3. Don't worry about encountering bears during the day. They've always run away from me when I scream like a little girl. I've never had the chance to use my cool anti-bear whistle.
4. Hang your food and garbage every night without exception. Raccoons, mice, possums, and lots of other varmints beside bears like Clif bars.
5. Mind your feet and treat hotspots immediately.
6. The Georgia miles are steep and long. Don't get discouraged! If you can train by climbing stairs with your backpacks, it will help.
7. When you get down to 1 liter of water per person, stop at the next water source and refill. Georgia can be very dry in September.
8. Pumps/filters work great and preserve the sparkling taste of mountain water. Carry iodine or chlorine as backup.
9. NEVER FORGET: this is supposed to be fun! If it isn't, slow down and look around.
Best of luck!
Uncle Hud
JaxHiker
07-14-2009, 22:53
Sounds like you'll have some fun. My friends and I did Woody to Hogpen in Feb and we're doing Hogpen to Dicks Creek the same Labor Day weekend. Here's what we're looking at doing:
Day 1: Hogpen Gap to Blue Mountain Shelter - 11.6 mi
Day 2: Blue Mountain Shelter to Tray Mountain Shelter - 7.8 mi
Day 3: Tray Mountain Shelter to Deep Gap Shelter - 7.5 mi
Day 4: Deep Gap Shelter to Dicks Creek Gap - 3.5 mi
Of course most of us hang so the shelters aren't a necessity. We'll probably just stage vehicles at either end like we did the last time but the shelter may not be a bad idea.
Unclehud, thanks for the post. Great info and well taken.
1. The thing is we wont arrive till around midnight the night before we start our hike. We have already called the Park and was told that we could arrive at the park at any time of the day, in fact it was the only State park that was open 24 hours a day in all of GA. We would rather not show up to one of the hostels that late at night and cause alot of ruckus that late at night. Plus its a good cheap place to park our car. So we will be calling this weekend to reserve our campsite at the park. I have called Sally and Joyce and set up a shuttle for the day that we will arrive at Dicks Gap, or Blue Ridge Gap, we still havent decided.
2. I dont know, it just feels right to me to start at Amicalola. Plus we will be there the night before we hike out. We are planning on making it to Black Gap Shelter at least, or if we feel good enough, to Springer Mtn Shelter or maybe even a little farther. We are leaving that open, and always keeping in mind that we can stop anytime we feel we need to and stealth camp if needed. We dont want to feel that we absolutely have to be at a certain point at a certain time, of course we will still have our itenerary in mind. There must be a balance!
3. I am hoping on this very same thing! I will still have a can of bear spray though, to me it just seems better safe than sorry!!
4. We will be taking EVERY precaution that we know of!! I dont want a bear to come and wake me up in my tent, and I dont want mice chewing any extra holes in our packs!! We also plan on hanging our packs as well. (By the way, any tips on hanging our packs?)
5. This is something that I only know to be prepared for and to pay attention to while on the trail. I will be getting my boots/shoes this weekend and plan on spending all hours I can in them to try to get the feel for them. We are bringing Mole Skin in case we need it as well, and we will be making all efforts to keep our feet dry. We will also be carrying extra socks so that we will always have a (semi) clean and dry pair if needed (if all goes well!! Haha)
6. We are actually going to the local high school and doing bleachers with our packs. Plus we are going to start walking everyday down the roads, and maybe some days we can actually hit some trails too!
7. Thanks for this bit of info. While it seems like it would be hard to run out of water on the trail, Im sure that it is quite possible! Both my gf and I will be carrying a 100 oz Camelbak bladder and at least one .75L Better bottle. I will be watching our water very closely!
8. I have a Katadyn Hiker Pro filter, and currently have Polar Pure for backup, but am planning on getting the Aqua Mira tabs (for the crypto!!)
9. I cant agree more! This is what I want, this is what it is about! We arent going to set records, but to get away and enjoy Gods Great Earth, and hopefully to become closer to God and ourselves while out on the trail!! We are very excited about going. The only thing that I can imagine not liking is the end, and I know I wont like that!!
Again, thanks for the info.
Jaxhiker, thats awsome, yall will be just ahead of us then. We will be starting out Friday morning at Amicalola.
We would like to hang, but we are still new and still getting some of our needed gear so we dont have the time or money for hammocks right now, but we are hoping to try it out some next year.
Hope yall have a great trip!
If you think of any info please let us know!!
JaxHiker
07-17-2009, 08:07
I'd definitely look into hanging. It sure does give you some flexibility.
NCYankee
07-17-2009, 09:32
I did this hike in May with some friends and it was incredible, even with the constant rain.
We started at Springer, skipping the approach trail but our plan was essentially:
Day 1: Springer to Hawk Mountain
Day 2: Hawk Mountain to Woody Gap (we stayed in Dalonaga, but there is camping there if you dont want to press onto the next shelter or go to the Hiker Hostel and wash up)
Day 3: Woody Gap to Neels Gap (stayed at hostel)
Day 4: Neels Gap to Low Gap
Day 5: Low Gap to Tray Mountain
Day 6: Tray Mountain to Dick's Creek Gap
We really liked having showers and found that if we hiked less miles that we just spent too much time sitting around. Then again, we didn't contend with much heat, for us it was just rain.
Good luck, this is a great section and you should have a blast.
JaxHiker
07-20-2009, 13:33
Hmm, I read the trail guides this weekend. They were split into Hogpen to Unicoi, Unicoi to Tray, and Tray to Dicks Creek. The levels were strenuous, strenuous, and very strenuous. Looks like I'd better hit the cardio. :-)
JaxHiker
07-27-2009, 10:21
1. Dick's Creek Gap is indeed a wide spot in the road with no cell phone service. SOBO is better because you end up in civilized Amicalola.Uncle Hud
Not sure how I missed this earlier. Our plan was to stage vehicles but then I started thinking about the HH. However, it seems that if we hike NOBO we might have trouble getting a call out to be picked up. What's the driving distance like between Hogpen and Dicks Creek?
I'm not sure now which would be more prudent. Stick to the plan? Hike NOBO and pray for cell service at the end? Or hike SOBO and get picked up at Hogpen? Then again, I can't recall if I had cell service at Hogpen or not.
Also, I wonder how busy they'll be shuttling since we're hiking over Labor Day.
STICK,
If you do start at AFSP, the lodge at the top of the falls serves up a buffet three times a day.
chefjason
08-17-2009, 12:18
I am resurecting this thread to add my two bits! I will also be going NOBO from Neels to Dicks over LDWE. I will be solo packing, unless I decide to bring the mutt with me, and I am hanging for the first time. This past weekend I camped with my family at Unicoi SP and yesterday I drove my truck to the Unicoi Gap and then around the mountian to the Dicks Gap. I had cell service the whole time, I know cause my wife was on the pjone with my mother-in-law the whole time, and I use Verison. The wife is supposed to be picking me up at Dicks on Monday, unless I get a turbo boost and push on to Bly. The point is, I will be in the area and have a 6 seat belt truck, if some one needs a lift. PM for numbers. Just to drive one more point home to the others planning this walk, do not do the approch trail if you don't HAVE to. It is known for ending peoples plans on day 1! Also, don't go NOBO on Blood. Knee killer. Plus, don't underestimate Sasafrass at the end of a long day. There is a three way intersection of roads called Horse Gap at the SO base of Sasafrass. It is a HORRIBLE place to camp. If you are not going to have the mustard to make it to the top of Sasafrass, stay at Camp Gap rather than Horse. Trust me from a sad experience. Also, a very important note, if you happen to hear automatic gun fire, don't freak out! The GA National Gaurd run training exercises in that area on a regular basis. I had to assure my daughter that we were not under attack. I did find about 100 spent .223 cartridges around Justice Creek. Indicating a cool fire fight! :banana
I went from Springer to Unicoi with my wife and daughter 13 at the time a few years back and had a great hike. My wife does not hike a lot but my daughter and I do. We made it with no problems. My advice is the same as others.
Good boots
cut your toenails
pack light (leave the bear spray at home)
skip the approach trail!
don't necesarrily shy away from the shelters, they are all nice in this section and ad a social and historical aspect to your hike, my wife loved meeting other hikers and socializing at the shelters, it was one of the highlights of the trip for her.
Thanks again for posting! I really do appreciate all the info everyone has contributed!
So, with that said, Ill say this, I dont know why but it feels right that I do Amicalola. I have heard many horror stories about the approach trail from friends that have been there, and people on this site as well as others have reinforced that horror. So, I dunno....maybe thats why I want to start there....to tackle the beast that everyone says that it is....maybe I just want to defeat it....or maybe I want to see the falls and walk up all the steps....I really dont know. All I know is that something is telling me to do it. So we are.
That said, yes we do have an itenerary, but by no means do we feel like we HAVE to meet it. Yes stay close to it considering we have to resupply, and of course set up our ride out. With our ride though we will call from Neels Gap to set up our final ending, so by then we will have a little bit of a pace and a better understanding of what we can do and how far we think we will be able to make it.
About the shelters, we are not making any plans (other than the unexpected plans) to stay inside any of the shelters. We want the freedom and privacy of staying in our tent. However we want to stay relatively close to the shelters to use the bear cables and of course to fellowship with others that are along the way as well. But we would always have the option of walking off to our own little spot (hopefully!)
We are looking forward to our trip so much! The time is getting so close. Im starting to get a little nervous just from how real it is finally becoming! This will be our first real trip, other than overnighters in local parks, so this will be our real first test of true backpacking.
Why is the approach trail so bad? Is it the hundreds of steps to the top of the falls at the park? I have done that as a tourist. Or is it strenuous after that also? Just wondering.
Hikes in Rain
08-17-2009, 19:48
Not really all that bad. Just adds a day.
Why is the approach trail so bad? Is it the hundreds of steps to the top of the falls at the park? I have done that as a tourist. Or is it strenuous after that also? Just wondering.
Im not exactly sure, but I think that that may be part of the reason that I wanna do it! I have heard that its just rough going. Maybe it has something to do with it being the very first day too, I dont know, but I will find out, soon!!
pyroman53
08-17-2009, 22:23
do not do the approch trail if you don't HAVE to. It is known for ending peoples plans on day 1! Also, don't go NOBO on Blood. Knee killer. Plus, don't underestimate Sasafrass at the end of a long day.
Nothing bad about the Approach Trail. Its historic and not all that big a deal. Its uphill, but so is half the remaining GA miles. Of course, I always dreamt about walking through the arch and heading up to Springer Mtn. Kinda the reverse of summiting Katahdin. Blood Mtn going north was no big thing. Got to the top and wondered where the big climb was. Smoked that climb. Downhill got my attention. I agree, Sassafrass was a mutha.
Have fun!
chefjason
08-18-2009, 07:49
Why is the approach trail so bad? Is it the hundreds of steps to the top of the falls at the park? I have done that as a tourist. Or is it strenuous after that also? Just wondering.
You don't have to do the steps. Yo ucan walk right out the back door of the visitor center at Amicalola and right up the trail. The reason folks say to skip it is because it is a rather strenous 8 mile hike straight up to Springer with no flats or down hill. So as a VERY FIRST experience, it can be a bit of a shock to the system as well as create some nasty blisters and soreness for day two, three....
Not really all that bad. Just adds a day.
Not bad is all relative I guess. But I don't wanne be one of the "hike my hike" jerks that we see from time to time on here.
Im not exactly sure, but I think that that may be part of the reason that I wanna do it! I have heard that its just rough going. Maybe it has something to do with it being the very first day too, I dont know, but I will find out, soon!!
Bingo! 8 miles of blood (sometimes) sweat (ALWAYS) and tears (often).:)
Makes day two a little rough on the knees cause day 2 is almost all down hill to three forks. And down hill with 40# on the back is hard on those joints. Man, as I type this I realize my wild youth of motorcycle wrecks, back yard fight clubs and stupid jumping off house kind of stunts have left me darn near a cripple!!:mad: Anyway, you are young and you know your body and it's ability better then any one else, so do what you want, but don't be supprised with the " I told ya so's"!! LOL, JK.
Nothing bad about the Approach Trail. Its historic and not all that big a deal. Its uphill, but so is half the remaining GA miles. Of course, I always dreamt about walking through the arch and heading up to Springer Mtn. Kinda the reverse of summiting Katahdin. Blood Mtn going north was no big thing. Got to the top and wondered where the big climb was. Smoked that climb. Downhill got my attention. I agree, Sassafrass was a mutha.
Have fun!
Were you day hiking or were you sportin' the 40#? I have done both kinds from both directions and decided I would never go North on Blood with a full pack again. Of course i got caught in a North Georgia Gully Washer right as I made it to the granite balds near the top. So I was exposed to lighting, wind gust and torential rain. The trail was literally 12" deep in raging waters trying to sweep my feet out from under me. Actually one of me fondest memories just from the mear thrill of it. :banana