My son and I will begin our years in the making conquest of the AT this summer. There is no way either of us can do a through hike so we will be tackling it in sections every summer. I've done plenty of day hikes, but no overnight backpacking (besides the Army) since the early 90's. I'm really overweight and will need to take it slow initially so I'm hoping to avg about 10 miles a day. I'm also trying to get organized so I don't find myself in a situation without supplies.
So after numerous website visits and reading journals, I've come up with what I think is a realistic itinerary that will get me from Amicolola Falls to the Nantahala Outdoor Center.
Day 1-3
Amicolola Falls to Neels Gap, resupply at Walasi-Yi center
Day 4-6
Neel's Gap to Dick's Creek, go into Hiawasee to resupply, stay at Budget Inn.
Day 7-9/10
Hiawasee to Standing Indian Campground
The question I need answered is: Is this a good spot for a mail resupply? I don't see it on any lists, but it seems like it would make sense.
Day 9/10-12/13
Standing Indian Campground to NOC.
The plan is I'm never more than 3 days away from resupplying/civilization. I'm trying to get a good feel for the AT. I'll obviously need to pick up my pace at some point or it will take me 15 years to hike the entire thing.
I plan on using my Army Ruck sack with a frame. I just don't see going out and buying an expensive pack to use once a year. I've got my sleeping pads and sleeping bags from the Army and I bought two one man tents. My son still needs a pack and I still need a good way to charge our phones. I saw a steamer that does it but it costs over $200.
Any tips on food (hot vs. cold) would be appreciated as well as any other bits of advice.