Seven Tips for a Successful Thru-hike

[crutch]

I love rule #2.....here's a thought: if they must have a schedule, write it on T.P. and then at least it will be useful for something.

[Jim Adams]

in reference to #2
don't look at reaching the end of the trip as the goal, although it certainly is a goal. the trip is just a way to get there but the trip itself is the important item. look at what you will do next and the end "goal" is just a way to get to THAT point.
also with alot of wilderness canoeing under my belt i have found that canoeing is just luxury backpacking. take all three piles of equipment and live good. it is in the boat not on your back.

[Peaks]

I'd advise everyone to make a tentative schedule, but then be very flexible about implementing it. It allowed me to plan resupply, and gave family and others a rough time frame of when I expected to be where. If I were to do it again, I'd still make a plan.

[Amigi'sLastStand]

Have fun and remember why you're hiking is the only rule you need.

[Brrrb Oregon]

I had almost forgot. Don't forget the rest step.
http://www.npr.org/templates/story/s...toryId=5316322

[ASUGrad]

#1 is the best advice anyone ever gave. There is a 100 lb difference between 25 and 35 lbs when you are hiking.

[88BlueGT]

Responding to the person who asked if they should bring a stove, I would answer that question and say absolutely. Not only will you get tired of eating cold food every day (and that WILL happen) but having a hot meal after a long day of hiking is no longer just food, its food for the soul! Its a huge boost to have a hot meal at camp, wouldn't recommend going without one. This doesn't mean you need a huge hefty stove/cookset. Get yourself a soda can stove and a lightweight pot, you'll be perfect.

[sbhikes]

I agree with throwing out the two piles. If you miss anything, you can always add it back. If you don't, you will have saved yourself some pain and postage.

[sheepdog]

Kind of goes with number 7 ; I like , "take what the trail gives you." When I first started hiking the AT I kept hoping for gentler slopes, a level spot what-ever. I became much happier when I just took what the trail gave me and worked with it.

[Hoofit]

you forgot one-take good care of your feet - everything is riding on them!

[gunner76]

Have enough time to complete your adventure

To me going on a trip implies everything is already planed and you know what to expect and when. Boring

I preferr an adventure as you never know what will happend or when.

I also agree that we should each hike our own hike.

[Ehrickah]

a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. - lao tzu

[MyName1sMud]

Best 7 tips I've ever seen about ANYTHING.

[Blue Butterflyyy]

I hope these tips would be really helpful for me this weekend. I am planning to go for Thru-hike with my friends. You have done a great job.

[GreenJaint]

These tips are really useful. Thanks a lot.

[strogiyogi]

#1 and #4 were big for me!

[peakbagger]

I run into examples of folks who ignored Rule #2 on schedule in the whites on occasion. Folks have an date for finishing and they are running late so they don't have time to stop and enjoy the presidentials

[TMathers]

Nice list thank you for sharing

[Alex90]

Thank you for your useful list

[MaryaliceRitchlin]

Really helpful but in my last climbing trip, I missed a good sense of humour within the camp.