Double Wide
05-15-2013, 12:24
Shiat Level: About to Get Real
Having only done overnights so far, and planning on doing a thru-hike next spring, I *really* need to do a shakedown and a multiple day trip, so I'm gonna do the first 30 miles of the AT just to see if I have what it takes. And also find out just how unprepared I am. I'm geared up and my pack weight hovers around 34-36 lbs fully loaded with water and food, (depending on how much food I bring), and although I feel like I'm ready, I just need to get out there and find out for sure.
A couple of quickie questions for you veterans:
How bad are the bugs in GA right now? I remember the damn gnats during the summer, but I didn't know if it is too early for the bugs at this point. I have one of those silling looking bug nets for my head, which I use on day hikes around here during the summer, wasn't sure if I wanted to bring it or not. Of course I have a small bottle of 100% Deet in my pack, too.
Also, while I'm bringing raingear, of course, I'm thinking that a longsleeve wool base layer and a light fleece would be all I need at night to keep warm. No need to bring the 'winter' gear, right? Or is it still pretty cold up in the mountains right now?
Sunscreen? Are we 'green-tunneled' now, or is it mostly exposed? I really hate wearing hats unless it's raining or really cold, so I'm only bringing my rain hat, which hopefully never gets used. But I don't want to carry sunscreen if I don't have to.
How are the water sources right now? I learned a tough lesson about cramps and dehydration last time out, and don't want to repeat another night of misery, so I try to carry at least a liter and a half at all times. Having never set foot on any section of the trail, I've heard that there is plenty of water in N. Georgia, especially after this crappy winter we've had. Any local, recent, first hand experience out there?
I think that's about it. Any other suggestions for someone who's not a novice, but still a relative noobie would be appreciated. Thanks!
Gonna take off Thursday morning from Springer, and hopefully roll into Mountain Crossings early on Sunday.
Having only done overnights so far, and planning on doing a thru-hike next spring, I *really* need to do a shakedown and a multiple day trip, so I'm gonna do the first 30 miles of the AT just to see if I have what it takes. And also find out just how unprepared I am. I'm geared up and my pack weight hovers around 34-36 lbs fully loaded with water and food, (depending on how much food I bring), and although I feel like I'm ready, I just need to get out there and find out for sure.
A couple of quickie questions for you veterans:
How bad are the bugs in GA right now? I remember the damn gnats during the summer, but I didn't know if it is too early for the bugs at this point. I have one of those silling looking bug nets for my head, which I use on day hikes around here during the summer, wasn't sure if I wanted to bring it or not. Of course I have a small bottle of 100% Deet in my pack, too.
Also, while I'm bringing raingear, of course, I'm thinking that a longsleeve wool base layer and a light fleece would be all I need at night to keep warm. No need to bring the 'winter' gear, right? Or is it still pretty cold up in the mountains right now?
Sunscreen? Are we 'green-tunneled' now, or is it mostly exposed? I really hate wearing hats unless it's raining or really cold, so I'm only bringing my rain hat, which hopefully never gets used. But I don't want to carry sunscreen if I don't have to.
How are the water sources right now? I learned a tough lesson about cramps and dehydration last time out, and don't want to repeat another night of misery, so I try to carry at least a liter and a half at all times. Having never set foot on any section of the trail, I've heard that there is plenty of water in N. Georgia, especially after this crappy winter we've had. Any local, recent, first hand experience out there?
I think that's about it. Any other suggestions for someone who's not a novice, but still a relative noobie would be appreciated. Thanks!
Gonna take off Thursday morning from Springer, and hopefully roll into Mountain Crossings early on Sunday.