3 nighter in June

[Wethu123]

My husband and I are hiking from Springer to Neels Gap. We have pretty clear plans to hike 8 miles the first and second day. But leaving our second day from Justus Creek, we're having difficulty splitting up the third day's mileage. Best option we see is to go 11 miles to Jarrad Gap and 5 miles the last day to Neels. Is there anything out there that a more experienced hiker knows about that's a few miles before Jarrad Gap that would break this up a little better? Also, if we aren't staying in the shelters where is the best place to store food to keep the critters out?

[FatMan]

The typical 3 night hike from Springer to Neels is:

1. Springer to Hawk Mtn Shelter
2. Hawk Mtn Shelter to Gooch Mtn Shelter
3. Gooch Mtn Shelter to either Lance Creek or Woods Hole Shelter
4. Finish at Neels Gap.

But answer your direct question, you can stay at Lance Creek which is a couple of miles before Jarard Gap.

[Wethu123]

Thank you! Very helpful.