Due to unforeseen life circumstances I find myself able to attempt a thru-hike starting Sept. 21st. While I completed a NOBO thru-hike in 2001 and another 4-section NOBO hike afterwards, all my AT hiking was mostly during early spring to late fall (I do have other winter hiking and camping experiences not part of thru-hiking). Given my start date, I believe it would be better to go SOBO. Even though I feel my prior hiking experiences and skill level are more than adequate for winter hiking in the mid-Atlantic and southern states I am concerned about the conditions I may find in Sept. and Oct. while hiking the New England states (esp. ME and NH). I would like to hear from others about a 9/21/19 SOBO start date, especially regarding equipment I should start out with. Thanks in advance!