View Full Version : Who's leaving in April?
stranger
12-19-2009, 00:13
Hey, thought I might start this thread for prospective thru-hikers or long distance hikers leaving Springer Mountain in April 2010.
I expect to be leaving Springer around 13-16 April, heading to Harpers Ferry this time (hopefully)
Who else will be around!
coheterojo
12-19-2009, 09:53
I'm starting on Wednesday, April 21st. 125 days from today but who's counting.
Red Beard
12-19-2009, 10:13
@ Stranger, if all goes well (meaning no more medical scares) I'll be leaving around that time. Hope to see you on the trail. Happy hiking folks.
Nomaderwhat
12-19-2009, 21:32
I'm heading out with my brother sometime in early April. It's going to sneak up on me. I have to move twice before then, and still haven't bought any gear. I just wish it would get here already..
Chaco Taco
12-21-2009, 10:33
See ya'll when you hit NC and TN
I'm seriously considering another thru attempt starting in mid April. I think it's a great time to start b/c you miss a lot of the early season traffic.
I will be up there on April 10 starting from Copper Gap and going for 8 days. See where I end up and time allows.
stranger
12-21-2009, 18:32
It's a great time to start, and there are still plenty of hikers out there, I left 9 April last year and still had some major thru-hiker clusters.
The weather is also much better, atleast warmer, in my experiences. Although the rain does seem to fall a tad more as well!
daddytwosticks
12-22-2009, 08:49
Hope to do a section hike starting from ASP to Neels on or about 4/10. Maybe see you out there! :)
ATSeamstress
12-23-2009, 07:31
Right now plans are to leave right after Easter in the Smokies. Rather than do a thru-hike, I'm going to do a "Finish-Up" hike. I've accumulated 1030 miles and will shuttle around the sections I've already done.
mumbles mcgee
12-28-2009, 23:14
Heading out mid-April depending on who will be the luck one to drive me!
warraghiyagey
12-28-2009, 23:42
I think Bulldawg is heading out in April. . . .
stunt man
01-01-2010, 20:45
im starting my thru early april. dying to get out there!
I'm planning to do late April at the moment, no date picked out. I did a lot of my planning months ago before finishing my thesis and getting my MS, and now it's time for me to really kick the prep into high gear...already have most of my gear set up, just need to start doing shakedowns.
hikingshoes
01-03-2010, 18:10
Ill be starting April21 to do a section: GA/W.VA.
The_Saint
01-04-2010, 13:05
I wish I was leaving again in April! I left April 19th and that was a good start date. If/When i were to do it over again, I'd start 2 weeks earlier though. I'm so jealous of everyone!
stunt man
01-04-2010, 13:46
I wish I was leaving again in April! I left April 19th and that was a good start date. If/When i were to do it over again, I'd start 2 weeks earlier though. I'm so jealous of everyone!
why would u start earlier? any particular reasons?
The_Saint
01-04-2010, 16:56
Fortunately I didn't sustain any injuries, but had I, I wouldn't have made it. I also would have hung out more at certain hostels and places I wanted to see. Either way, it was great.
Brian (aka Skippy)
01-11-2010, 15:06
April 1st! Woot Woot! Almost got everything ready...sooo close now. Just a few more things
Saint: you said you left in late April, when did you finish?
pollywog
01-29-2010, 15:01
1st week in April, not sure exact date yet. A few yrs ago was backpacking in Nantahala in mid-May and water bottles would freeze at night if not in the sleeping bag, so starting earlier doesn't appeal to me and am concerned about starting later and making it to northern terminus by October. Yes, I know I could leapfrog :-)
The Flatulator
01-29-2010, 16:52
I'll be leaving Amicolola on April 13. Flying into Atlanta the day before. Third times a charm!!! (So were the first two!)......Looking at many of the pictures posted, I see there have been quite a few changes over the years. I am sure the Trail will be busier than when I did my first two trips. Look forward to meeting many of you.
I'm currently planning to start south from Kent CT on or around April 19. I'll hike about 735 Miles to Virginia 652 Finishing by the end of June. Then flipping back to Maine to do a Mid Week hike of Katahdin after July 4th and hiking south to Kent By the Middle of September. Then Flipping back to Virginia Picking up where I left off in June to finish hiking home to GA during the fall and ending before thanksgiving.
Leaving from Springer April 18th. ~K2~
superman
02-03-2010, 19:01
I think Bulldawg is heading out in April. . . .
I'm starting late March or early April depending on the weather. I only hike on wicked nice days plus it makes it easier for the caterer to get my meals to me. :)
... I only hike on wicked nice days plus it makes it easier for the caterer to get my meals to me. :)
I like the way you think. I hadn't considered using a caterer. It could get kind of expensive having to pay their tolls for the private roads in the 100 mile wilderness.:banana
superman
02-03-2010, 21:02
I like the way you think. I hadn't considered using a caterer. It could get kind of expensive having to pay their tolls for the private roads in the 100 mile wilderness.:banana
Exspensive...yes...but the medical expenses from eating my trail cooking should more than justify the catering. I only hiked the AT in 2000 because of the picture of the pretty young woman who was smiling and hiking on a clear, beautiful day with a comfortably cool temprature. Can you imagine my surprise when I found out it isn't always like that...and not all the women who hike the AT are babes. I used to say "but this isn't like the picture." In order to continue hiking I have just become more selective about the days that I hike. I also found that the babes look just fine if I hike without my glasses.:banana
I'll be starting 23 April 2010...
Looking forward to the many experiences along the way.
I want to enjoy the journey,.
My destination is made up of many journeys.
See y'all on the trail.
E-Z
superman
02-09-2010, 20:00
I think Bulldawg is heading out in April. . . .
Is he going to do the BMT to start? If so I'll keep looking behind me for when he catches up.:)
kitticat53
02-13-2010, 12:38
My husband and I are planning for around April 20th. We're looking forward to seeing everyone!
Bear Bag
02-13-2010, 23:10
Exspensive...yes...but the medical expenses from eating my trail cooking should more than justify the catering. I only hiked the AT in 2000 because of the picture of the pretty young woman who was smiling and hiking on a clear, beautiful day with a comfortably cool temprature. Can you imagine my surprise when I found out it isn't always like that...and not all the women who hike the AT are babes. I used to say "but this isn't like the picture." In order to continue hiking I have just become more selective about the days that I hike. I also found that the babes look just fine if I hike without my glasses.:banana
I wanna see that picture!
v5planet
02-13-2010, 23:31
woot woot. buddy and i hit the trail on or slightly before the 15th.
The Food Network
02-14-2010, 11:45
Just decided that my last day at work will be April 2, so I will hopefully hit the trail on the 3rd or 4th, depending on how seriously we drive.
Have to stop on the way to take a picture of me flipping off the "Welcome to Florida" state sign. :)
THOR the hiking viking
02-26-2010, 23:31
I'll be going thru hiking nobo, leaving between april 12 - 15 with a friend from college. can't wait to meet everyone.
AzWildflower
02-27-2010, 20:37
I had planned to start on Springer in mid-March. I have been reading journals and following the weather so I have delayed my start 3 weeks. I am in no hurry. I am a slow hiker. Perhaps I will flip to Katahdin at the end of June, or maybe not.
Chillfactor
03-01-2010, 19:13
I'll be leaving Springer on April 16th and heading for VA. See you soon!
Staying at the Hiker Hostel April 9th and starting the trail on the 10th. Watching the weather this year makes an April start early enough for me. :)
daddytwosticks
03-02-2010, 08:42
Starting at AFSP on April 11 (maybe 10th?) for a section hike to Neels Gap. See you all out there. :)
wildpony
03-02-2010, 11:19
planning on a April 1st week start
hoping we start to get some warmer nights
When I was planning to go SOBO no Flips, I was going to start May 31 - June 15. When I decided to go with Cool Breeze, and 2 Flips, I moved the date up to April 19 from Kent CT. Now watching the weather, I'm opening my mind up to starting anywhere from mid April to mid June, and adjusting the itinerary accordingly. My goal is to finish the entire trail before Thanksgiving, and to have an enjoyable hike. Wet I can handle. But, I don't plan on getting out there and freezing my butt off. I really respect all the early starters, but it's not my thing to do any more.
BTW It's March 2, 2010, and it's snowing in Metro Atlanta today. I was looking at old photo's the other day, and I noticed that it snowed in Metro Atlanta on March 1, 2009 as well.
purple66sbc
03-03-2010, 13:38
Just got someone to rent my house so it looks like ill be able to make it out this year! Heading out in early-mid April too! Got alot of last minute planning to do. Look forward to meeting everyone!
I'm driving up to AFSP either Mar 30th or 31st, staying at AFSP lodge the last nite. Hit the approach trail the next day, probably April 1st or 2nd. Was going to head up there a week earlier, but some last minute stuff came up here at home. One month to go, and my 2nd bedroom looks like an REI showroom with all the extra hiking gear I've accumulated over the last year.
Still deciding on aquamira or Katadyn Hiker Pro for water treatment, and deciding whether I'll need the R2 Regulator jacket along with the MH Nitrous down jacket for camp, or just bring the Nitrous jacket for camp, leave the R2 fleece...and bring Cap2 or Cap3 for hiking baselayers when daytime temps drop to the 40s.
I'm approaching this thru a bit different than past section hikes, much more intent on shaving ounces to save weight, at the expense of a few comfort items I would bring on a typical 4-5 day section hike.
Leaving 1st week in april. I hate the bus could use a ride from Damascus to springer. Split gas cost.
Brokenheart
03-08-2010, 23:06
Hope to be leaving last week of March or first week in April. This will be my second attempt. Made it to Franklin in 08 but had to bail because of a knee problem. Hope to make it all the way this time. Have all my gear sorted out but debating on how much cold weather clothing to bring, also fine tuning menu selection. Can't wait to see Springer again!!
wildpony
03-09-2010, 08:53
I am planning a start from Springer April 4. Not sure what my speed will be. I am sure it will not be too fast at first. I'm 56, and my backpack is ready to go.
now I'm moving start date to April 5th due to a few late March obligations at home. weather is finally starting to warm. From what I've heard, the Smokies may not be clear til mid to late April anyway, so I'm in no rush to get out of the starting gate.
will meet many of you on the trail, stay safe and have a great hike
jnl82381
03-09-2010, 11:03
I'll be leaving 13APR and staying at the hiker hostel the night before. It'll definatelly sneak up because i'm leaving on monday for two weeks in the grand canyon! I can't wait to be out there and start walkin'!
coheterojo
03-09-2010, 11:10
I still plan on starting Wed., April 21st. I already have a room reserved at the Amicalola Lodge for the 20th. I plan to spend one last night in the lap of luxury, have an early am wake-up call and a hearty breakfast and be at the foot of the approach trail around 7:00 or so.
Only 43 more days to go!
El Flaco
April 7th Springer to Damascus section.
roy_hiking
03-09-2010, 14:40
Leaving April 1, 2010 - Appalachian Trail GEEZER HIKE 2010.
And YES I am ready to go, no thru-hike or major backpacking. I will be the driver for the "Geezers". So, I willl just be doing some walks in the woods, and some old town touring.
:sun
Hiker Jeff
03-09-2010, 18:18
April 1 nobo thru-hike! I'm counting down the days and planning a couple of shakedown hikes in the coming weeks. Staying at Hiker Hostel on March 31.
I'll be starting on Apr 1 as well. Only 1,900,800 seconds left! God I can't wait!
stranger
03-12-2010, 02:15
Finally sorted...leaving 16 April, headed to Harpers Ferry this year
starting april 5th! cannot wait! i think my mind has already begun hiking because i keep dreaming about how i've showed up on day one and forgotten my gear or it took me three days just to do the approach (which in dream land, also happened to be in my backyard and i kept getting distracted with music festivals). haha. looking forward to the adventure! see you on the trail! - yum yum
Was gone to leave on March 4 But after reading about all the snow and hiker getting off
the trail move my date to April leave Washington on April 1 get to the hiker hostel April 2
Leave on April 3 any of you folks staying at the hostel.
HiKen2011
03-13-2010, 13:20
April 2-5 for me!
I am flying in to Atlanta on 3oth March and am hoping to start the approach trail on the 1st April if I can find somewhere to stock up on food on the way to Amicalola! Really looking forward to it, all my friends think I am a fool here in England so I thought best start on April Fools day!!:D
roy_hiking
03-15-2010, 11:41
MrVix, how are you getting to Amicalola?
Hi Roy hiking, I am flying into Atlanta late on the 30th and have booked into one of the Airport Hotels for the night, and will probably take the easy option and get a taxi up to Amicalola via a Supermarket for food supplies the next morning.
roy_hiking
03-15-2010, 12:24
MrVix, then you will have a lot of options along the way to stop at a store. Good Luck and see you on the AT
Thanks Roy Hiking, see you soon.
North out of Damascus on April 14.
Short Term
03-15-2010, 15:21
Heading out for a section - NOC through the Smokys - 3/27! I hope some of the snow melts by then!
StormBird
03-16-2010, 16:36
march 31st --- >i know it's not april, but close enough.;)
SawnieRobertson
03-16-2010, 16:49
April 25, SOBO from North Adams, Masachusetts--enjoying Cool Breeze slightly adjusted itinerary. GW!--Kinnickinic
April 25, SOBO from North Adams, Masachusetts--enjoying Cool Breeze slightly adjusted itinerary. GW!--Kinnickinic
I'm looking forward to meeting you. I'm starting +/- April 20, hiking NOBO from Daleville VA, to Kent, CT before Flipping to Maine to hike south. Can't miss 8th grandchild's Baptism on the 18th.
Patrick Powers
03-18-2010, 11:10
from fat pappy' am departing toledo april 18 on grey hound to arrive in gainsberg ga. on the 19 .am leaving springer the 20 heading towards damascushoping to see you all on the way.
The Flatulator
03-18-2010, 11:14
I'll be seeing you on the Trail. Flying into Atlanta on the 12th and leaving Amicalola on the 13th. Best not to follow me too closely : )
nblackmon
03-18-2010, 11:20
Flying into Atlanta on the 5th, starting out on the 6th.
ashley_nicole
03-20-2010, 13:04
Leaving 16 April! Can't wait to meet you guys out there!
tennesseered
03-25-2010, 10:00
had to push back my start date to april 3rd. will most likely be alone. hope to see y'all out there
from fat pappy' am departing toledo april 18 on grey hound to arrive in gainsberg ga. on the 19 .am leaving springer the 20 heading towards damascushoping to see you all on the way.
Guess I'll miss you this trip. I'll be heading north from Daleville VA around the 20th of April. Maybe I'll catch up with you another time.
free4now
03-25-2010, 21:29
im heading out in two weeks from A Falls and an anxious
More-to-Do
04-23-2010, 09:43
I'm leaving from Hot Springs, NC on May 1st, Going to Parisburg,Va. Maybe we'll meet.
More-to-Do
Left Daleville on Friday. Reached Jennings Creek Sunday. Early in trip taking zero at Middle Creek Campground. Doing laundry, and picking up some extra food.