Getting ready for my first backpacking trip. I’m planning on going sobo from port Clinton to boiling springs. I’ve done a lot of research, have my gear and feel pretty well prepared. Anything I should know or any tips for my journey?
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Getting ready for my first backpacking trip. I’m planning on going sobo from port Clinton to boiling springs. I’ve done a lot of research, have my gear and feel pretty well prepared. Anything I should know or any tips for my journey?
Like the AT is closed? Or dont drink the water once off the mountain going into Boiling Springs? Lots of farm run off. Or dont camp in Boiling Springs unless you can sleep thru train horns in your ear. Best advice I got was from an ATC employee who said keep going...its an easy hike to Kennedy Shelter. This of course assumes you are not exiting at Boiling Springs. As motivation to continue for a pickup outside of Boiling Springs the Twirly Top near James Fry shelter is a great reward for completing your hike.
Planning on getting picked up in boiling springs. Thanks for the tip about the water!
There's some nasty sections of rocks here and there. You'll run into them right off. Look out for Raddle Snakes, they love those sunny piles of rocks. Don't mess with them. You ignore them, they ignore you. Do the climb out of Port Clinton in the morning, it's pretty steep. In fact, try to get up with the sun and do most of your miles by noon.
Stop at the Doyle
Definitely will be watching out for those snakes. I thought about starting at 183 but I want the challenge of that initial climb. Thanks!!Quote:
Originally Posted by Slo-go'en
For sure stopping at the Doyle for a beer!!
Thats what I did(183) as I wanted to do only 90-100 miles. Its an interesting mix of super easy and there goes my average speed. Overall it was very enjoyable and for a low miles/day guy, it was fun to do 22 miles and not be tired.
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Originally Posted by Mongoskater99
Is it still true that the AT is closed in PA? I'm seeing some outdated closure information online, and it seems to be spread across many different websites. So it is kind of hard to know the latest information with certainty.Quote:
Originally Posted by Crossup
It is my understanding that shelters are closed in PA, but the trial is open and camping is allowed in most campsites and shelter locations along the trail. Can anyone confirm or refute this?
Regardless of the official rules, lacking any attempt at enforcement people are doing whatever they please. It's the American way.Quote:
Originally Posted by FlyPaper
Quote:
Originally Posted by FlyPaper
I have a friend who started a flip flop in Harper's Ferry a couple of weeks ago and is finishing up PA, and it mostly open. Pine Grove Furnace SP and the such have been closed and hitching has been slower, but everything else sounds pretty status quo. The shelters have been open.
Is the Doyle open for business?Quote:
Originally Posted by HankIV
Stopped there couple years ago - the place was unreal
That is a nice way of saying it.Quote:
Originally Posted by igost
In Boiling Springs I stayed at the Allenbury which was a great stay and took in a play. IDK of they still are open but it was a popular place for thru hikers and had a special building and rates for us.
Doyle was open 2 days ago. No food or alcohol sales. Hikers only. Was told Allenberry does not want hikers.