Hi guys, this is my first post.
I am just beginning my run of the entire trail in sections starting with a run from Spring to Fontana (hopefully, time permitting) at the end of May. The time permitting thing is a big deal, as I only have 10 days to try and go 161 miles, but I have early outs at NOC and Franklin, just in case.
I would love to do a thru in the next year or so, but I simply can't understand the logistics of it all.
Physically, I can handle it. I'm 29 and a former Marine. I routinely do what I like to call "heavy pack" conditioning day hikes of around 15 miles while working on my SB6K where I intentionally overpack my pack with significant amounts of extra weight so it'll be that much lighter when the time comes. I live close enough to GSMNP that I go there quite often, and this weekend is the first of many weekend 30 or so milers as conditioning.
Financially, I'd be ok. I could save the 4-6k necessary for the trip no problem. I'm on VA disability which could cover any further expenses I would have such as cell, health insurance, etc...
Herein lies the problem: I don't understand how it is even remotely possible to commit to the time requirements. I have little doubt that it would take me longer than 6 months to complete, but would a company even allow someone to take that much time off? I love my job and I'd hate to quit.
I guess my question is how does a through hiker deal with putting civilized life on hold while on the trail?