View Full Version : Dropping like flies...
alxflwrs
04-05-2013, 18:52
Geeze, c/o 2013 is making me nervous. Caught up on a few trail journals today and to my sad surprise many that I followed have given up. Getting somewhat discouraged--some say they spent too much time before hand preparing physically and not mentally.
=/
Geeze, c/o 2013 is making me nervous. Caught up on a few trail journals today and to my sad surprise many that I followed have given up. Getting somewhat discouraged--some say they spent too much time before hand preparing physically and not mentally.
=/
REALLY? As I read it many have been injured. So that would be physical
T.S.Kobzol
04-05-2013, 19:36
Most of the journals I read have hikers without winter gear hiking through winter conditions in the mountains. No wonder they are miserable and end up injured and quitting.
sent from samsonite using tapioca 2
Slo-go'en
04-05-2013, 19:43
This was not a good year to start early. We tried telling them that but would they listen - no. I want to get ahead of the crowds they say. I want to make sure I have enough time to finish, they explain. Well, I guess in a way it worked out for them, but not as they expected!
REALLY? As I read it many have been injured. So that would be physical
you will find that many, not all, that quit for physical reasons actually quit for mental reasons. I saw many hikers that quit with ailments that many that finished just dealt with.
This was not a good year to start early. We tried telling them that but would they listen - no. I want to get ahead of the crowds they say. I want to make sure I have enough time to finish, they explain. Well, I guess in a way it worked out for them, but not as they expected! Yes you did. I guess they were planning on last year's conditions.
you will find that many, not all, that quit for physical reasons actually quit for mental reasons. I saw many hikers that quit with ailments that many that finished just dealt with. Yeah It is easier to hike when and ailment when the weather cooperates.
Yes it is easier to hike with an aiment when the weather cooperates.
The Cleaner
04-05-2013, 19:58
I liked the Trail journal entry where a hiker left camp and left his tent where he set it up.Said it was frozen to the ground.Some real hikers out there this year:eek:.Wonder who will pack that out.Probably wasn't a very good tent anyway...
Pedaling Fool
04-05-2013, 20:03
If they're saying they're injured, they are lying bastards. But then again most that don't make it blame it on injuries, or money, or family...anything but themselves. If they are quitting more than normal than it's because of CC ;) :D At least that's the reason they're giving for the cold.
The Cold is demoralizing, especially for people that really didn't have it in them anyway.
The Cleaner
04-05-2013, 20:13
Geeze, c/o 2013 is making me nervous. Caught up on a few trail journals today and to my sad surprise many that I followed have given up. Getting somewhat discouraged--some say they spent too much time before hand preparing physically and not mentally.
=/ And with trail magic or a hostel at every other gap too.One hiker made it about 30 miles and said he couldn't wait for a real bed and a hot shower.I thought people went backpacking to be out in the woods and to "Get away from all that".New term for hiker slang-Hostel Hoppers...hike from one hostel/town to the next eating crappy food,being cold&wet all day.Some couldn't even stop to take a photo because their hands were too cold or their batteries were dead...
hikerboy57
04-05-2013, 20:20
its been primarily some March winter weather. yesterday was dangerous with trees and tree limbs falling all over the place. a lot of people were very on drink wit for the weather. me I'm loving it.im at the noc. what if you are out of condition as well.
alxflwrs
04-05-2013, 20:22
I liked the Trail journal entry where a hiker left camp and left his tent where he set it up.Said it was frozen to the ground.Some real hikers out there this year:eek:.Wonder who will pack that out.Probably wasn't a very good tent anyway...
Definitely not LNT practice...
alxflwrs
04-05-2013, 20:25
Most of the journals I read have hikers without winter gear hiking through winter conditions in the mountains. No wonder they are miserable and end up injured and quitting.
sent from samsonite using tapioca 2
definitely a surplus of people using the wrong gear for this time of year...did anyone else SEE those pack lists?...
WingedMonkey
04-05-2013, 20:27
Geeze, c/o 2013 is making me nervous. Caught up on a few trail journals today and to my sad surprise many that I followed have given up. Getting somewhat discouraged--some say they spent too much time before hand preparing physically and not mentally.
=/
Why is it making you nervous?
Jack Tarlin
04-05-2013, 20:33
The Gloom and Doom pronouncements from people who get their information on-line is amusing. As for those of us on the ground, no, the attrition rate this year is perfectly normal, for unlike last year (i.e. the Year Without Winter) there have been some periods of snow, ice, and really cold weather. This is normal for North Georgia and North Carolina at this time of the year. It is a phenomena called "winter" or "early spring." It generally takes place every year. Nothing to be alarmed about. The dropout/attrition rate is expected, normal, and perfectly well understood, so please spare me the thoughts and sentiments from Connecticut or wherever these wild and over-wrought posts hail from, which is obviously NOT from anywhere near the Trail or actual 2013 hikers. This week the number of hikers demanding a shuttle ride to the Train station or airport from Neel Gap was Zero. The Class of 2013 are NOT "dropping like flies" and however gleefully happy this pronouncement may be to some people, it is decidedly not a true one. The Class of 2013 is great, doing well, and having a ball. ---JT, Blairsville GA (Neel Gap).
The Cleaner
04-05-2013, 20:34
They should have watched several episodes of "Yukon Men" instead of reading "The Barefoot Sisters".One really has to have many days&nights of winter experience to enjoy the cold instead of just surviving it....
The Cleaner
04-05-2013, 20:40
Why is it making you nervous? If he's nervous now just wait till he gets on the trail:eek:......
sublimety
04-05-2013, 20:54
I am one of those hikers who started early fully aware of the possible conditions and have enjoyed the beauty that is with the bad weather. I agree that a lot of people are under prepared, but is it really any different than any other year? I mean the success rate is under 30% for a reason. If it was an easy endeavour everyone would finish.
alxflwrs
04-05-2013, 21:19
And with trail magic or a hostel at every other gap too.One hiker made it about 30 miles and said he couldn't wait for a real bed and a hot shower.I thought people went backpacking to be out in the woods and to "Get away from all that".New term for hiker slang-Hostel Hoppers...hike from one hostel/town to the next eating crappy food,being cold&wet all day.Some couldn't even stop to take a photo because their hands were too cold or their batteries were dead...
I think part of it has to do with just proportion of people learning about it, and heading out in general. Say 15-20 years ago (maybe more 30 years ago, probably closer to the seventies than nineties) the only people who knew about the trail were people who were in a network that would know/encounter/run into the Trail. So in that way, these days, theres just hundreds if not thousands more people who just know about the trail, that without internet or other major media (AT Documentary is one of most watched things on Netflix and every joe schmoe has Netflix) they just wouldn't know about the trail.
With this said, you're right. A lot of people go out there and are expecting some luxury, romantic, fun thing. Can't stop to take a photo? Sounds like you don't have the right gear. If they had the right layers, gloves, shoes, hats, etc I find hiking can be a fairly enjoyable experience, even in sleet, hail, snow, etc. So, we're probably just running into and reading those types of peoples trail journals. I could be wrong.
Jack Tarlin
04-05-2013, 21:43
The 2013 season, weatherwise, is perfectly normal. And so is the thru-hiker attrition rate. In recent days, i.e. the last week, we have brought ZERO people to the airport or bus/train station from Neel Gap so they could go home. The suggestion that there is anything unusual about the 2013 season or its attrition rate, or the suggestion that people are "dropping like flies" is not, in my opinion, supported by facts, nor does this argument seem to be put forth (never mind supported) by people actually on the ground, i.e. people who would be in a position to know. The attrition rate for 2013 is perfectly normal.
Boogie Monster
04-05-2013, 21:56
Most physical ailments create mental weakness and cause the excuses that lead to getting off. Everyone has knee pain out here, blisters hurt, feet and tendons are strained and bruised. I waddle through towns and camps in crocs at the end of the day. Push thru, keep going. You can make it.
Thru hiking is not about having instant fun. many times it is like " Endure now ,enjoy later remembering your endurance".
max patch
04-05-2013, 23:42
The "25% of all prospective thrus quit by Neels Gap" is a statistic that someone pulled out of their azz years ago and keeps getting repeated.
Ron Haven has a scheduled pickup every day at Unicoi and Hiawasse during peak season because he knows he will bring enough people back to his hotel to make it financially worthwhile. If 25% of hikers quit by Neels he - and every other shuttler and local taxi service - would be parked at Mountain Crossings every morning just waiting to take all that low hanging fruit to Atlanta or Gainesville to go home.
you will find that many, not all, that quit for physical reasons actually quit for mental reasons. I saw many hikers that quit with ailments that many that finished just dealt with.
+1 Ditto!
If they're saying they're injured, they are lying bastards. But then again most that don't make it blame it on injuries, or money, or family...anything but themselves. If they are quitting more than normal than it's because of CC ;) :D At least that's the reason they're giving for the cold.
The Cold(*Can Be* IF YOU LET IT) is demoralizing, especially for people that really didn't have it in them anyway.
Harsh but IMHO damn well right!
John, lying bastards? Tell us what you really think. Didn't think you had that in you.:D
They should have watched several episodes of "Yukon Men" instead of reading "The Barefoot Sisters".One really has to have many days&nights of winter experience to enjoy the cold instead of just surviving it....
Perhaps, you are right my friend.
C'mon it's the AT. You're hiking the MOST OVER ANALLYZED MOST DOCUMENTED CONTINUOUS LONG DISTACE BLAZED TRAIL IN THE WORLD! This isn't the first manned trip to Mars. You aren't on the Nina, Pinta, or Santa Maria sailing beyond the edge of the known world facing a mutiny. There are shelters, blazes (LOTS of them too!, it's kinda like paint by the numbers but this is hike by the blazes), oodles of trail magic, abundant cheap hostels, obvious tread, food resupplies every few days, help is rarely VERY far away, few signicant wildlife threats(as an AT hiker you'll be at the top of the food chain), etc. Whie the AT certainly has it's fair share of challenges it isn't the hardest trail in the world to hike. Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. But But What If What If. Just stay on the trail and walk and soon you'll have a state finished. You'll have your hiker legs. With some more walking and lots of laughter and a good attitude another state will be done. You'll have your thru-hiker legs. Before long this can be the mentality: *Hey, this ain't so bad. I can do this. Wow, it's GREAT being able to actually be DOING this rather than just talking about things from behind a computer and not taking action. WOW, it's GREAT being able to actually be DOING this when SO MANY others would not or could not.* You'll start finding that trail rhythm and trail lifestyle that's right for you. You'll meet more and more BELIEVERS - Those who put something behind in order to GROW - To step ahead! - To reach forward! Then, with every moment with every step you know you are somehow getting stronger, more determined, and seeing things through. You are somehow knowing you are getting better and better. Then as you enter Maine after all the aches, cold, heat, rain, hunger, sweat, dirt, greasy skin, smell, bugs, gut busting, waiting hrs for rides, and possibly a little blood and tears, even though you might feel a big ache inside you because another page of you life is about to turn onto the next page, you realize IT WAS ALL WORTH IT. With all the challenges you faced hiking through 14 different states you also know you rose to meet ALL those challenges. Now, you are somehow better! You will probably see some things differently post hike. You will have gained a GREATER AWARNESS. You may realize your hiking endeavors WERE NOT just about hiking! Your life interconnected, perhaps for only a brief period, with other people's lives. Know this too - the book isn't over. You merely enjoyed one hell of a well written page! For some, like me, it's just a beginning to becoming something greater than I previously was. Some may never do another long distance hike again. Whatever you decide to do or be or offer to share with others after that - KNOW THIS - You are now and always will be a member of THE TRIBE. Do you have what it takes to be a member of THE TRIBE?
A quitter will always justify why they quit. Perhaps sometimes that was the right path for them at the time. What are you going to do? How do you have enjoyed the feel about yourself when you quit? when you fall short? when you fall down/get knocked down in the second round of a 15 round fight? This is another oportunity to switch onto a different path! This is an opprtunity to break from a quitter mentality to a more empowering mentality.
I am one of those hikers who started early fully aware of the possible conditions and have enjoyed the beauty that is with the bad weather. I agree that a lot of people are under prepared, but is it really any different than any other year? I mean the success rate is under 30% for a reason. If it was an easy endeavour everyone would finish.
You are probably right Sublimety. And, Jack agrees. Good enough for me
Did you quit. You demonstrate a good attitude with your post. Did you/Do you have it on the trail consistently?
I like what you said, in that you find the beauty in all types of weather. Maybe that rephrasing helps eliminate the thought of "bad weather." It's not about good and bad. It's all just weather to be prepared for and find beauty in. Maybe you can apply that same thing to your last sentence and the thoughts inherent in it. Maybe it just an endeavor that's different in the sense it's one you are NOT YET fully accustomed. When one is more accustomed to something it tends to get easier. Play with how you define things until it supports attaining your goal. In other words, when you change the way you look at things the things you look at change. This process will not only make you more mindful of the thoughts you have but also the imbedded assumptions others have in their communication to you. Advertisers and marketing reps, politicians, religious leaders, cults, educators, all manner of professionals, your parents, friends, couples, and many who desire to influence others apply these techniques consciously often without us even realizing it. You'll start becoming aware of things that go on behind the curtain that might astound you.
A lot of hikers quit in the past 2 weeks according to the approximately 25 I picked up and brought into Erwin. Also, a lot of them are skipping sections of trail with the intent to come back and hike them later.
Some of them ones staying on the trail are in a good mood - others are struggling very hard not to quit. It's something to see the different attitudes.
All I can add is... I'm still out here! Had to take some unplanned zeroes because of snow and ice (I'm trying to hike responsibly), but I expected that with the early March start. I should be out of the Smokies in about three days.
"Spring where are you?"
a quote from someone who is still on the trail:)
Every year a couple of guys boast about wanting a wilderness experience and plan their budget for no town stays at all. Wonder how thats working out this season? :)
Zippy Morocco
04-06-2013, 08:19
I have seen 3 hikers go. In the 350 miles I have been on the trail. One because of injury, one left with his injured brother, one bought a van and became a trail angel.
Every year a lot of people quit. Every year the number 1 reason is not being prepared. It's fine out there. The only reason I took off time for the snow is because I didn't have snow shoes. So, I guess I was unprepared too. Ol' well, we are still walking.
Capt Nat
04-06-2013, 09:22
You folks tend to be so harsh and take this stuff so seriously. Hiking is a hobby. It's something we do for pleasure. We don't get paid to walk through the woods and camp. Not only is there no reward for climbing Katahdin, almost no one really cares that you did.
I hike around one to two hundred miles a year here in Florida, usually on loop trails but sometimes the Florida Trail through 3 Lakes and Prairie Lakes. I don't mind a little discomfort. Rain, mosquitoes, mud, and swamp are part of the adventure along with the aches and pains that are part of hiking.
I started the Appalachian this March and it handed me my butt, sent me hobbling home. Very different from hiking in Florida, both weather wise and terrain wise. No shame, just a great learning experience and idea on how to prepare and gear differently next year. I'm not going to pay to do something that causes undue pain or injury if it stops being enjoyable.
If hiking the Appalachian Trail is more important to you than your friends, family, and health you need to stop hiking and fix what is wrong with the rest of your life.
The folks that I met on the trail this year were some of the brightest most motivated young people I've ever met. They were supportive of me and each other, not just in the hike, but in general life. Didn't see any harsh judgement or attitudes at all. What a pleasure!
I am changing my exercise program this year to accustom my ankles to slopes. Next year, I'll show up at Springer again in different shape, with different gear, but the same attitude. I'll hike and camp and enjoy the camaraderie as long as it feels good and is a joy. Hiking shouldn't be a competition, that's why so many of us hike instead of play ball. So if I hike to Maine, for three months, or just a week, some of you can "tsk tsk" all you want to, I'll be grinning just the same...
I liked the Trail journal entry where a hiker left camp and left his tent where he set it up.Said it was frozen to the ground.Some real hikers out there this year:eek:.Wonder who will pack that out.Probably wasn't a very good tent anyway...
this is a classic post, Cleaner. Love it. Not only did these folks quit, but they didn't bother to pack out their own gear. Just left the tent there. talk of not being real hikers!!!
brian039
04-06-2013, 12:07
The 2013 season, weatherwise, is perfectly normal. And so is the thru-hiker attrition rate. In recent days, i.e. the last week, we have brought ZERO people to the airport or bus/train station from Neel Gap so they could go home. The suggestion that there is anything unusual about the 2013 season or its attrition rate, or the suggestion that people are "dropping like flies" is not, in my opinion, supported by facts, nor does this argument seem to be put forth (never mind supported) by people actually on the ground, i.e. people who would be in a position to know. The attrition rate for 2013 is perfectly normal.
Agree. People who keep online journals are not the majority of hikers by far. They don't represent the rest of them.
You folks tend to be so harsh and take this stuff so seriously. Hiking is a hobby. It's something we do for pleasure. We don't get paid to walk through the woods and camp. Not only is there no reward for climbing Katahdin, almost no one really cares that you did.
I hike around one to two hundred miles a year here in Florida, usually on loop trails but sometimes the Florida Trail through 3 Lakes and Prairie Lakes. I don't mind a little discomfort. Rain, mosquitoes, mud, and swamp are part of the adventure along with the aches and pains that are part of hiking.
I started the Appalachian this March and it handed me my butt, sent me hobbling home. Very different from hiking in Florida, both weather wise and terrain wise. No shame, just a great learning experience and idea on how to prepare and gear differently next year. I'm not going to pay to do something that causes undue pain or injury if it stops being enjoyable.
If hiking the Appalachian Trail is more important to you than your friends, family, and health you need to stop hiking and fix what is wrong with the rest of your life.
The folks that I met on the trail this year were some of the brightest most motivated young people I've ever met. They were supportive of me and each other, not just in the hike, but in general life. Didn't see any harsh judgement or attitudes at all. What a pleasure!
I am changing my exercise program this year to accustom my ankles to slopes. Next year, I'll show up at Springer again in different shape, with different gear, but the same attitude. I'll hike and camp and enjoy the camaraderie as long as it feels good and is a joy. Hiking shouldn't be a competition, that's why so many of us hike instead of play ball. So if I hike to Maine, for three months, or just a week, some of you can "tsk tsk" all you want to, I'll be grinning just the same...
Kuddos to you for learning, adjusting and giving it a second try. Here's the only problem I have with your post. If a hiker gets on the trail to go hike fine. If they declare to the world that they intend to thru hike then they should prepare for that. If they don't make it then they fail their STATED objective. You can call that harsh but it is the truth. Every year there are countless people that have done little to no hiking, meet someone in the bar that thru hiked and decide that they will embark on a multi month endevour with absolutely no clue what they are getting into. Aspiring thru hikers can spend hours on WB and read hundreds of journals but in the end, experience counts. Short cut it and the odds are against you. Experience teaches you to handle the cold, the rain, the discomfort, the boredom, the heat, the minor injuries and everything else that gets inside your head when you have hours upon hours to just think.
good luck on your prep for next year.
max patch
04-06-2013, 12:19
Anybody who leaves before April 1 has no right to complain about the weather. Its called winter for a reason.
johnnybgood
04-06-2013, 13:53
Many started in late febraury thinking that ole' man winter had packed up and left town. The fact remains that you must be prepared for winter conditions through the month of April in higher elevations and cold wind driven rain can occur anytime during the spring
Often times newbie hikers have this fantasy in their mind on how the trail is a walk in the park. Reality then sets in and they feel somewhat ashamed and need a legit excuse
Now, I'm not saying this is always the case , some injuries do in fact take hikers off the trail.
Last summer I met a thru hiker, Coffee Pot, and his mix hound Scout at Calf Mtn Shelter.
He had injured the arch of his foot picking up his dog at Dragoons Tooth and carrying him over the sharp talus rocks.
Not wanting to leave the trail for fear of being a failure he hobbled on. I believe he suffered from a stress fracture , and that doesn't heal quickly , only with rest and time. If he finally was forced off the trail due to injury I applaud his gallant courage to hike for miles in such obvious pain.
Long story short,...he had attempted a thru the year before and left the trail for reasons he didn't elaborate on,and felt determined to walk the entire distance this time no matter what.
The Cleaner
04-06-2013, 13:55
this is a classic post, Cleaner. Love it. Not only did these folks quit, but they didn't bother to pack out their own gear. Just left the tent there. talk of not being real hikers!!! Back in 1984 I was doing a loop trip in the Cosby area and stayed one night at Tri-Corner Knob shelter.Well it snowed about 4-5 inches overnight.Not that much,but a lot stuck to the trees and made some great pics.I l hiked out with 4 other hikers headed for a backcountry campsite.Upon arrival at the campsite,there was a tent already there set up with no footprints or other sign of activity.Well we started thinking was someone in the tent and something had happened to them.Too sick to move or maybe dead?:eek: We kind of thought about it for a few minutes and which of us would open the tent to see what had happened.Well I was the most experienced one and volunteered to investigate.I slowly opened the tent door and found no hiker dead or sick.Only a pair of wet blue jeans and some other assorted junk.Must have got cold & wet and had to bail out to their car or some other place.So it looks like this could be a common thing for those who hike in without proper gear or cold weather knowledge.Probably not the 1st to do this and not the last....:(
Agree. People who keep online journals are not the majority of hikers by far. They don't represent the rest of them.
Don't see folks like Scott Wiliamson, Justin Lichter, Pharr-Davis, Billy Goat(PCT), Skurka, Taupin, Roman Dial, Ryan Jordan, Ninblewiil Nomad, etc spending excessive amount of time analyzing everything on the internet related to hiking either. Guess why? Possibly, it's because they aren't talking about hiking they are hiking! Time for me to go.
hikerboy57
04-06-2013, 15:11
I passed a hiker last week crossing the ga line,told me ga.was the second hardest state after nh.i said huh?i found it pretty easy.some people out here have never hiked hills becore,let alone mtns.
It's like this every year, it's SAD it really is, you even meet people that starts at AFSP just to turn around .5 mile up trail and go home. but like i tell people if you can make it to Damascus you can go all the way.
Almost There
04-06-2013, 23:47
If your in semi-decent shape you should be able to complete the AT in five months. If you can manage that then starting early April then you should be done end of August/early September. Those who take longer do so for various reasons, but there is no need to start in February or early March. If you want to avoid the crowds then go SOBO...problem solved.
Chaco Taco
04-07-2013, 08:18
Geeze, c/o 2013 is making me nervous. Caught up on a few trail journals today and to my sad surprise many that I followed have given up. Getting somewhat discouraged--some say they spent too much time before hand preparing physically and not mentally.
=/
Why are you nervous? Because a handful of people on the internet are going home? People get out and realize it isnt what they thoughht. Lots of partying and folks calling themselves hikers, leaving their crap strewn all over the trail, using shelters as trash cans..... With the popularity of the trail growing every year, there will never be low numbers for NOBO's. If these hikers think GA and NC/TN are challenging mentally, then they really were never in the GAME in the first place. You should have seen the early birds in 2009. They had 4 feet of snow on the ridges in the Smokies. Most postholing the entire GSMNP. Its all part of it and the internet does not indicate what is really happeneing on the trail.
Cookerhiker
04-07-2013, 08:39
[QUOTE=moytoy;1455497]"Spring where are you?"
a quote from someone who is still on the trail:)[/QUOTE
I just finished reading Chin Music's entries from the last several days. IMO he's a role model for the physical and mental aspects of both preparing for the hike and doing the hike. It all comes down to clear thinking and common sense.
I have few observations to add. First, there seemed to be many more early starters this year than previously so it only makes sense that we see more early starters dropping out. But by the same reasoning there are probably more making it. Second, it is now April and I have not had to help anyone off the trail this year. Usually by this time I have had to help more than one off so at least at this point I have not run across any miserably unprepared folks yet but that doesn't mean they are not out there. Third, I have not seen the large amount of trash and TP Blooms that I normally see this time of year. Maybe the earlier starters are spending more time off the trail due to the nastier weather. Or maybe the trail maintainers are working overtime or just maybe this year's group gets it when it comes to cleaning up after themselves.
Anyway, all looks pretty good this year from mile marker 17.5 at Grassy Gap. Heading out in the next 10 minutes to enjoy a beautiful spring day on the AT and other local foot paths.
RhinoMama
04-07-2013, 09:08
WAHOOOOOOO!!! Glad to hear it!! We start walking on April 15th and can not wait!!! In seeing the posts above, we have certainly prepared mentally. As we understand it, the trail does have it's physical parts but most of this journey is mental. We are prepared with our gear and food and journals. This will be a life changing journey and we a excited to be the new people we will be when we are finished. Thanx for the good news JT!!! :0)
Cookerhiker
04-07-2013, 10:22
If you're in semi-decent shape you should be able to complete the AT in five months. If you can manage that then starting early April then you should be done end of August/early September. Those who take longer do so for various reasons, but there is no need to start in February or early March. If you want to avoid the crowds then go SOBO...problem solved.
Everything you said is absolutely true.
johnnybgood
04-07-2013, 10:45
Everything you said is absolutely true.
I concur. Also reading as many trail journals beforehand will open your eyes to the reality of the trail.
Good weed them out. I started early in a decent snow year and it was great. The folks in my bubble after the smokies were a good crew and almost all made it. The snow cleaned out the wussies and frat boys in a hurry.
"the fewer survive the greater the share of honour"
It's like this every year, it's SAD it really is, you even meet people that starts at AFSP just to turn around .5 mile up trail and go home. but like i tell people if you can make it to Damascus you can go all the way.
My day one hike from Amicola I met a duo taking a day two zero 6 miles in. It snowed that night, and I bet they never even saw a white blaze.
Slo-go'en
04-07-2013, 12:31
WAHOOOOOOO!!! Glad to hear it!! We start walking on April 15th and can not wait!!! In seeing the posts above, we have certainly prepared mentally. As we understand it, the trail does have it's physical parts but most of this journey is mental. We are prepared with our gear and food and journals. This will be a life changing journey and we a excited to be the new people we will be when we are finished. Thanx for the good news JT!!! :0)
The catch 22 is that nothing can really prepare you mentally or physically except by being on the trail. Unless you've already done a reasonably long hike, there is no other experiance which comes close. I'll be heading out a few days after you, so I might bump into you between Springer and Damascus.
Using the, "I quit because I wasn't prepared" excuse IS LAME. NO ONE CAN prepare for ALL contingencies on a hike, and for a long distance hike, fug etta about it! YET, DESPITE THAT FACT, HIKERS STILL FIND WAYS TO COMPLETE THEIR HIKING GOALS!
Same with other endeavors in life! If you quit the goal of thru-hiking it's my illusion that you are generally a quitter at a whole more than hiking! If you have a quitter mentality don't get mad at me, get mad at yourself! Use that as leverage to re-condition yourself to a more empowering WINNER MENTALITY! Not too late to change your path!
If one advances confidently in the direction of his dreams, and endeavors to live the life which he has imagined, he will meet with success in common hours.
http://thinkexist.com/images/book/corner.gif
I was at a bar once and met this guy with a ZZ top beard. He was telling of tales of the AT, and I thought....darn it, I'm going to buy me a 7 pound pack and pack it with the kitchen sink and take me a walk. In cotton jeans............5 lbs boots......and one of those camp showers. Yep thats what I'm going to do.
You folks tend to be so harsh and take this stuff so seriously. Hiking is a hobby. It's something we do for pleasure. We don't get paid to walk through the woods and camp. Not only is there no reward for climbing Katahdin, almost no one really cares that you did.
Those who consistently see things through to completion often have to take those things so seriously in order to achieve them. That's how once thought of as impossible things often become the typical things in life. What we do for pleasure or as hobby connects to what we do for a living and the rest of our lives. There may be no Starbucks Latte or Shiny Trophy or pretty pin or patch or pay raise awaiting us atop Mt K but there CERTAINLY are rewards but most of them are internal rewards. If all you care about is being noticed by others with your achievements is that a sufficient enough motivation for having those achievements? Can one even consistently attain various goals if the only known reward is just being noticed by others?
You folks tend to be so harsh and take this stuff so seriously. Hiking is a hobby. It's something we do for pleasure. We don't get paid to walk through the woods and camp. Not only is there no reward for climbing Katahdin, almost no one really cares that you did.
Those who consistently see things through to completion often have to take those things so seriously in order to achieve them. That's how once thought of as impossible things often become the typical things in life. What we do for pleasure or as hobby connects to what we do for a living and the rest of our lives. There may be no Starbucks Latte or Shiny Trophy or pretty pin or patch or pay raise awaiting us atop Mt K but there CERTAINLY are rewards but most of them are internal rewards. If all you care about is being noticed by others with your achievements is that a sufficient enough motivation for having those achievements? Can one even consistently attain various goals if the only known reward is just being noticed by others?
Please I was being sarcastic, previous posted a scenario about meeting someone in a bar who hiked the AT and now wants to do the same. I too agree, this is not a helpful group sometimes. Shoot you down before you even get started.
I was at a bar once and met this guy with a ZZ top beard. He was telling of tales of the AT, and I thought....darn it, I'm going to buy me a 7 pound pack and pack it with the kitchen sink and take me a walk. In cotton jeans............5 lbs boots......and one of those camp showers. Yep thats what I'm going to do.
You probably aren't the first to have this thought. And, you probably will not be the first to do it either IF you do it.:D
Hey, no problema. This Yankee wants no problem while on the Sheltowee Trace.:D Besides, I lived in FL for many yrs.:D
When I did my AT thru, I was fortunate enough to have hiked Vermont's Long Trail the year before.
These 18 days on the LT prepared me for a thru-hike far more than any online forum or gear discussions. ;)
The tuition may be high in the school of experience, but it is a great education. :)
Hey, no problema. This Yankee wants no problem while on the Sheltowee Trace.:D Besides, I lived in FL for many yrs.:D
I live close to a section of the ST, good choice. Heck I don't care where your from, we are all here for the same reason.
hikingshoes
04-07-2013, 14:01
I just look forward to my thru-hike next yr. I really enjoy chatting with hikers at the shelter's and on the trail. I just think that makes life more fun,relaxing, and enjoyable...
vamelungeon
04-07-2013, 15:52
I wish I live closer to the southern terminus so I could pick up some nice gear cheaply or free. I wonder what kind of tent that was left frozen to the ground?
I wish I live closer to the southern terminus so I could pick up some nice gear cheaply or free. I wonder what kind of tent that was left frozen to the ground?
The best gear can actually be found on the approach trail. I have found, food, a mess kit, rope, tent, axe and a bear canister... And that was just one trip last spring. Need a bear canister?
WingedMonkey
04-07-2013, 17:47
I wish I live closer to the southern terminus so I could pick up some nice gear cheaply or free. I wonder what kind of tent that was left frozen to the ground?
On my '95 hike, there was a guy trail named "Scavenger". Some of the worry types might have considered him homeless.
He hiked from Springer to Fontana, would get a temporary job and then hike back again. All along the trail picking up discarded gear and foodstuffs. He looked like an old time peddler with all the stuff hanging off his pack.
HikerMom58
04-07-2013, 17:57
I thought all thru hikers were homeless! ;)
johnnybgood
04-07-2013, 18:07
The best gear can actually be found on the approach trail. I have found, food, a mess kit, rope, tent, axe and a bear canister... And that was just one trip last spring. Need a bear canister?
Needless to say, these motards should just plain & simple stay off the trail. I'm sure they won't be missed.
beautifulpoetman
04-09-2013, 10:44
The negativity in this thread distorts factuality and erodes practical help. How about a thread about former "successful" thru hikers who have spent
post trail getting obese and spitting venom on the internet. Yes, preparation is vital. So is having a dream. Hike your own hike. The mountains are oblivious to our definitions.
Firefighter503
04-09-2013, 12:25
The negativity in this thread distorts factuality and erodes practical help. How about a thread about former "successful" thru hikers who have spent
post trail getting obese and spitting venom on the internet. Yes, preparation is vital. So is having a dream. Hike your own hike. The mountains are oblivious to our definitions.
QFT.
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QFT.
10 Characters.
QFT+1
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If I ever get a chance to thru hike (considering job, family, pets) I would finish if I had to crawl. I'm just that stubborn. I don't give up easily.
If I ever get a chance to thru hike (considering job, family, pets) I would finish if I had to crawl. I'm just that stubborn. I don't give up easily.
neither does this thread.......
WingedMonkey
04-11-2013, 10:40
If I ever get a chance to thru hike (considering job, family, pets) I would finish if I had to crawl. I'm just that stubborn. I don't give up easily.
Apparantly you ain't stuburn enough or you would have thru hiked by now.
Apparantly you ain't stuburn enough or you would have thru hiked by now.
just for once, could you restrain yourself? ;-(
Apparantly you ain't stuburn enough or you would have thru hiked by now.
As always, there is always the smart remarks I've come to expect. Thank you :D
I was wondering how long it would take, only 27 minutes.......FTW
maybe clem
04-12-2013, 06:39
Capt Nat - excellent post. Honest and full of wisdom.
Hairbear
04-12-2013, 07:21
Im looking for the thread that starts as follows,Class of 2013 wow most of them have made it farther than i ever could of. I cant find it anywhere,Iwonder why?
Lone Wolf
04-12-2013, 07:42
If I ever get a chance to thru hike (considering job, family, pets) I would finish if I had to crawl. I'm just that stubborn. I don't give up easily.
it ain't about the destination. but sadly for most it is
Chaco Taco
04-12-2013, 08:57
seems like the people that are dropping are the ones that complain about the services on social media. The one's still on the trail that log onto facebook everyday wont last long.
daddytwosticks
04-12-2013, 15:53
it ain't about the destination. but sadly for most it is
The older I get, the more I agree with your statement. :)
it ain't about the destination. but sadly for most it is
Amen. I made it to Harpers Ferry and got off trail, and couldn't give a s*** what others think about that fact, it was still life changing. Can't wait to get back out there.
Katiepecbvda
04-12-2013, 17:33
Honestly, I think everyone who even completes 100 miles or more is impressive. From everything I've read, the AT is one of the toughest things to accomplish. If I had started in March or Feb I can guarantee I wouldn't have lasted long. I am starting April 19 or 20 to avoid some of the cold weather. I've prepared as much as I can, but I won't know whether I can hack it or not once I'm out there. I've researched and bought what I think is some of the best gear for my price range, read a million AT books, and tried to think of the things I think that are most likely to make me quit and tried to figure out how I can prevent that. I've trained physically. I hope I can hack it, but I respect anyone who tries to do something this big and crazy
http://dubsontheat.wordpress.com
NOBO April 19 or 20
robertblake60
04-13-2013, 16:57
I'm a hiker ON TRAIL now (started 3/10 @ approach trail). Trail name is NorthStar.
I know of two hikers who have quit and I have been seeing the same 30-40 people pretty regularly. Sure, March was a PITA but I don't think a lot of people are quitting because of it.
I just got back from my Spring section hike an hour ago, Damscus to Erwin
Between the really rough weather in the smokies this year, last weeks rain-sleet storm and this super-nasty virus going around, no wonder that many are dropping out, this is NOT what they signed up for.
Like 80%+ of the "thru hikers" I met going SOBO have had this virus!
This was not a good year to start early. We tried telling them that but would they listen - no. I want to get ahead of the crowds they say. I want to make sure I have enough time to finish, they explain. Well, I guess in a way it worked out for them, but not as they expected!
I'm probably about the 493rd person to say this, but "ANY year is a bad year to start early".
Start later.
Start lighter.
Hike faster, farther, in better weather, in a better frame of mind,
Spend less time (and money) waiting out bad weather,
And maybe, just maybe, you'll finish (but there are absolutely NO guarantees.
Section hiking is tough enough (you never get in good shape - though thruhikers tell me it never stops hurting). Have fun! :p
It's nice everyone on here is soooooo supportive and non- judgemental. I thought it was supposed be hike your own hike, so if people want to quit, for what ever reason, that's their business.
Sorry just venting on this one
speedbump
04-14-2013, 20:27
What virus, stomach or respiratory?
I just got back from my Spring section hike an hour ago, Damscus to Erwin
Between the really rough weather in the smokies this year, last weeks rain-sleet storm and this super-nasty virus going around, no wonder that many are dropping out, this is NOT what they signed up for.
Like 80%+ of the "thru hikers" I met going SOBO have had this virus!
I'm a hiker ON TRAIL now (started 3/10 @ approach trail). Trail name is NorthStar.
I know of two hikers who have quit and I have been seeing the same 30-40 people pretty regularly. Sure, March was a PITA but I don't think a lot of people are quitting because of it.
Good to hear you are still out there. Laugh. Dance in the rain. Blow cold smoke rings. After a long ascent there''s often a great view at the top and a descent will shortly follow. Have some food. Enjoy some warmth. Laugh MORE. ADAPT. Be FLEXIBLE. FIND WAYS YO ENJOY EACH MOMENT.LIFE BEGINS AT THE END OF YOUR COMFORT ZONE!
Lone Wolf
04-14-2013, 20:55
It's nice everyone on here is soooooo supportive and non- judgemental. I thought it was supposed be hike your own hike, so if people want to quit, for what ever reason, that's their business.
correct. this is the internet. don't get butthurt when jerks like me make comments about your stupid reasons for not walkin'. leave you ithingys at home
HikerMom58
04-14-2013, 21:33
correct. this is the internet. don't get butthurt when jerks like me make comments about your stupid reasons for not walkin'. leave you ithingys at home
LW... you actually called yourself a jerk. What are we supposed to do with that? I do get hurt by typed words from people I've never met on the internet. It sounds a lil crazy but it really happens. Sometimes, I don't know what to do with that. :p
Geeze, c/o 2013 is making me nervous. Caught up on a few trail journals today and to my sad surprise many that I followed have given up. Getting somewhat discouraged--some say they spent too much time before hand preparing physically and not mentally.
=/
I highly recommend reading Zach Davis' book ... Appalachian Trials http://appalachiantrials.com/ and blog http://blog.appalachiantrials.com/ and Zach's blog http://zrdavis.com/
THIS from my own blog: Sometimes I think it's not in my best interest to read Trail Journals when they accurately describe the White Mountains and Mahoosuc Notch and such [Like this VIDEO (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qRvUVhYO3Dc)] ... I can look at the map profiles and shudder ... and reading about the days and days and days of rain and cold and wind ... and 18 inches of snow in August or September in Maine ... and who had to get off the Trail due to this injury or that illness ... and biting flies ...and Lyme Disease ... Oh, it was 'fun' to see the 'real' Maine Climbs ... rebars and ladders and all. But worrisome that I won't be able to carry heavy enough winter gear should it get freezing cold or should we have an early winter ...
Making it all the way is my goal ... but just hiking 'today' has to become my focus. In the past, I've lost my focus by concentrating on the goal. But THIS time, I'm setting my goal to be focusing on 'today's' hike ... and letting the miles pass while doing so.
Focus on "today" and the miles will fade away. And if you find a Trail Journal that starts freaking you out about how miserable/wet/scary/cold that person's hike was ... FIND ANOTHER because there are many more who will describe an AWESOME hike ... spectacular views/sunny days/happy encounters.
And if ALL else fails ... do what Datto has always done ... TAKE A NAP. And when you wake up, hike on.
:)
Coosa
There's really no great skill in being a jerk; though for some, I do believe it comes naturally. :)
Old Hiker
04-15-2013, 06:44
There's really no great skill in being a jerk; though for some, I do believe it comes naturally. :)
Actually, there IS skill in being a jerk, but only when the other person doesn't realize at first that you are being one. Some of us have to work long and hard to be one. We are deeply jealous of you who have the innate ability.
And then there is:
http://d.gr-assets.com/authors/1306133803p2/14033.jpg (http://www.whiteblaze.net/author/show/14033.Winston_Churchill) “Tact is the ability to tell someone to go to hell in such a way that they look forward to the trip.”
― Winston Churchill (http://www.whiteblaze.net/author/show/14033.Winston_Churchill)
SOBO_Pace
04-15-2013, 06:46
I just got back from my Spring section hike an hour ago, Damscus to Erwin
Between the really rough weather in the smokies this year, last weeks rain-sleet storm and this super-nasty virus going around, no wonder that many are dropping out, this is NOT what they signed up for.
Like 80%+ of the "thru hikers" I met going SOBO have had this virus!
There was a very bad virus going around like this on my SOBO thru last summer and yes it did take out 80% of the crown going both ways. And it was localized in a much more difficult section of trail.
I woke up sick as a dog on the north end of mahoosic notch as well as the rest of my group. The ones that were not sick that day were very sick the next day.
earplug94
07-31-2013, 09:53
I had kinda a hurdle to get over towards the middle of the trail. But, to get through it. There is a connection to nature and the trail that is coming that surpasses it all. A deep connection that amount of time in the woods gives you.
you will find that many, not all, that quit for physical reasons actually quit for mental reasons. I saw many hikers that quit with ailments that many that finished just dealt with.
I can agree with that. I also don't think theres any advice for mental preparation. Someone either has it within them or they don't.
-SEEKER-
07-31-2013, 10:15
I'm just a section hiker. This year my section was to be the last 380 miles NOBO. I started at Franconia Notch (the Whites are not a good section to start in). I only made it 60 miles and the last 15+ were done on a fractured tibia and torn meniscus. Injuries can happen anywhere along the trail.
I'm just a section hiker. This year my section was to be the last 380 miles NOBO. I started at Franconia Notch (the Whites are not a good section to start in). I only made it 60 miles and the last 15+ were done on a fractured tibia and torn meniscus. Injuries can happen anywhere along the trail.
Sorry to hear that. As you quickly found out northern New England is not the best place to finish a section-hike. With only a couple exceptions, at least you're through most of the restricted camping area and can take it as slow as you choose (without having to pay each night). Heal well and best of luck. Hiking in Maine is some of the best of the best.
kidchill
07-31-2013, 17:50
I think the attrition rate is fairly static throughout the years, but I think more and more hikers are blogging their experiences, so it seems as though the rate is higher than it actually is. http://www.appalachiantrail.org/about-the-trail/2000-milers If you look at the numbers, roughly half of the population makes it halfway (HF, WV), and roughly half of that number finish in ME (about the same for SOBO, just a smaller starting population). I went SOBO last year, so I was following as many trail journals as possible before I left...I wanted to get an idea of what stressors I would be facing before I left. The same thing happened while I was reading these, many of them quit before I started hiking. Also, I think some kept going, but lost interest in maintaining their journals (this happened to me as well...blogging became a chore and I think I quit writing somewhere around CT). I can easily rattle off a good 10-20 names of people I met that didn't make it. If the completion rate were 100%, there would be no real reason to work at it...if it's that easy, what's the point? It's called an ENDURance hike for a reason. Also, many people left the trail for real world reasons...family issues, job opportunities, and financial stuff. The real world doesn't stop turning while we're out there hiking. Weather patterns, illness, and injury will always be present. I remember puking/crapping for 16hours straight when I got the Gorham Plague last year...I also remember post-holing through 3ft snowdrifts coming out of Pearisburg after Sandy. At the end of the day, some people will resolve to keep going, and some people will opt out.
Drybones
07-31-2013, 18:02
I arrived just in time for the winter storm, had days the only person I saw was a guy hiking with me, a fraction of the people I saw last year...it was bad nasty out there.
Chaco Taco
08-24-2013, 07:16
Number in Glencliff are much higher than last year. There is a significant sized bubble in The Whites right now. Miss Janet and other shuttle providers have been very busy. Looks like the numbers are up from recent years with the cooperation of the weather for the most part, atleast according to about 30 Thru's and some of the hostel managers we spoke with.