View Full Version : Unicoi to Franklin
Unicoi to Franklin
I plan to continue my hike of the AT this spring! I hope to get into better shape by the start of my hike but don't believe I will realistically be able to do more than 8 miles/day.( recovering from back surgeries). Therefore I'm looking at it taking me 7-8 days to cover the approximate 57 miles I plan!
I know I won't be able to carry enough food at the start to last me 8 days! Is there a place to get off the trail around day 4 to resupply?
Thanks
max patch
12-16-2012, 15:04
I can come up with 3 alternatives.
1. My pack can hold 11 days of food. Consider carrying all 8 days; that would be my personal preference.
2. Deep Gap NC is 32 miles (4 days at your pace) from Unicoi. It can be reached via a good FS rd. Consider leaving a food cache there.
3. Dicks Creek (US76) is 16 miles (2 days) from Unicoi. If you are going during peak thru hike season I believe Ron Haven is running daily shutles from there to Hiawassee. Free to hotel guests, but I'm guessing he would take you on a fee basis. You would probably have to hitch back. That would save you 4 pounds or so at the start. Wouldn't be worth the hassle to me but then again I haven't had back surgery.
Food cache sounds like the best idea! Where can I find a map that would show FS roads!
The Maps from the ATC have them.
max patch
12-17-2012, 21:43
To reach FS 71 from Franklin, NC, go West on US64 about 13 miles. When you see sign marking the Clay / Macon County line you are almost there. You'll make a left hand turn off of 64 onto FS 71. Its an excellent road, about 6 miles to Deep Gap. Road is closed in winter, generally 1/1 to 3/15.
And as Astro said, its shown on the map.
max patch
12-17-2012, 21:44
To reach FS 71 from Franklin, NC, go West on US64 about 13 miles. When you see sign marking the Clay / Macon County line you are almost there. You'll make a left hand turn off of 64 onto FS 71. Its an excellent road, about 6 miles to Deep Gap. Road is closed in winter, generally 1/1 to 3/15.
And as Astro said, its shown on the map.