When I finish posting this I am driving to the local REI store and buying a backpack. I have a weeks vacation in July, I am looking for a 5-6-7 day hike on the lower half of the AT. I read back through the posts here( through December of last year), but ( I think) my request is a little different...
I am looking for a section to hike where I do minimal camping. I would prefer a hostel or hotel when ever possible. I work long hours outside; the heat and lab does not scare/ intimidate me. But I have never slept well on the ground ( I am planning to attend REI seminar on hammocks ). And I would be quite content to snack during day and eat at restaurant or evening meal. This is my vacation...
I think Shenandoah Park would work. My first preference would be to either start or end at Damascus Va, and have family meet me and bike ride the Va. Creeper trail. That would eliminate shuttle.
I have looked the mile by mile descriptions of trail, but cannot tell for sure what areas would work best. So I decided to ask here. My goal is to say I hiked 50 miles of the trail on vacation. I may have a chance in June to do a 3 day hike; I am considering driving to Springer (beginning of trail) or Franklin NC, hiring a shuttle to take me 20-30 miles out, then hiking back to the car.
So that is my plan so far- can anyone give me some ideas? THANKS!
PS - 1st post! Thank you Rick for help registering!