Return Transp Options Back to Springer

[Bravefoot]

Will start northbound in March, 2006 hoping to finish in July. I see the air fares are running $400-450 one way BGR to ATL, and Greyhound is running $181 from BGR to Gainesville, GA, but the latter takes 2 days. What other options are there for the return trip that aren't as costly(air) or interminable(bus)?

[Almost There]

That's about it man, unless you can find another hiker with family from GA who is planning on driving up to Maine for the summit event. Might want to hunt around and see, of course, then you are dependent upon someone else's hiking speed and ability to finish. Or you could just play it by ear and hope to summit with someone from GA. Your only other option is to rent a car...but that will cost almost as much as a plane ticket. Go with the bus, it will be your cheapest option. Another option is to take a bus to a city close by where you could catch a train to ATL. Cost would be between a plane and bus. Good Luck!!

[hustler]

I would hike to Maine, and then figure out how your getting back. Things will fall into place. There will be a good chance you will be able to find a ride back to Georgia. If nothing else just buy a bus ticket up there and prepare for a long trip home. You don't want to burden yourself with having to be a certain place at a certain time.

[mdionne]

buy a bus ticket from bangor, or better yet take the train from portland, to boston and get a flight from boston. the prices should be a lot cheaper going between two major airports. good luck.

[PeterB]

A flight on AirTran (airtran.com) - nonstop Boston to Atlanta will cost you about $150. If you catch a sale (they happen around the 1st of every month) and you fly on a Tue/Wed/Sat, it will cost you about $90. Of course, it may be difficult to predict the day you want to fly ahead of time so you will pay more if you book later. For example, a flight for tomorrow will cost you around $275

[Almost There]

The problem with planes is then he is on a set schedule, unless he strolls in a buys a ticket for his flight home. This can be expensive, and then he has to arrange for his pack, which means a bag to put it in, etc. I know some people who have had packs destroyed by airlines...plan on karma getting you through!