I'm planning a thru-hike in '09, but I would like to do a bunch of preparatory long term (2-5 weeks) hikes on the AT next summer to figure out gear usage and what I need/don't need.
I live very close to Highpoint, NJ so I thought I could start there, but I've been told the trail north of Highpoint is extremely difficult. I'm not scared of being discourage, I just don't need to have my butt kicked to accomplish what I want.
Any thoughts on going north or south from Highpoint for a shakedown hike?