Class of 2008, but it seems A LOT longer than that. Taking a week off in June to clear the head and lose some weight but wanted to know what folks are seeing out there with everything going on. Looking at about an 70-90 mile stretch and because of location/logistics I will be doing something like Neels Gap NOBO to NC or Erwin area SOBO to Smokies. I will have my dog and have to assume it is a lot harder to catch a hitch into town right now so that could come into play.
Leaning SOBO because I could stop in Hot Springs and have to worry about resupply. But NOBO GA is by far more remote with less of an urban interface so we wouldn't have as many encounters with dayhikers which is EXACTLY what I am looking for.
Is the trail jammed packed right now from Erwin to Smokies or could it be at that time? More so than GA I have to assume?
Has hitchhiking been pretty much impossible?
Not messing with the smokies but does either section have any issues with closures or worries with a dog?
It's hard for me to recall which section is better in terms of views...etc. Any help is appreciated.