I am planning to start a NoBo section from Springer to Damascus (maybe further) around April 10th to 15th. Just wondering if I could expect to see many faces out around then. Anbody planning a start date around then?
Also any suggestions on gear? I am planning to pack my solo tent and 20 degree WM bag + liner. I Just dont know what to expect for weather and how to plan clothes.
Mahna Mahna
The weather in that time frame can be cold at times. Back in 2004 Neals Gap had snow the third week of April.
I’d think the 20 degree bag with a decent liner (silk or micro-fleece?) would be fine. Assuming your bag is relatively new (i.e. the down still has its loft). Also, you will have a tent that can add some warmth. There are some folks who start March 1st with a 32-degree (or even a 40-degree) bag. My admiration goes out to them.
During the day I’d think you could hike wearing just a single layer - even shorts and t-shirt. Great hiking weather.
Been there, done that
Did that same hike last year a few weeks later then you though. you should be fine with a pair of midweight long johns and a good lite gortex shell that time of the year.
joe
Mahna,
You will have a lot of company on your hike, for sure. You will defenitly “see some faces”, as you put it. I started a thru hike on May 5th and met tons of folks, both thru hikers and day hikers. You will have a blast!
I carry the same clothing more or less, no matter the time of year. You don’t want to get caught unprepared. Think about carrying heavy long johns, top and bottom, to sleep in. Never hike with this layer. To hike in I like “convertable” pants, with zip off legs and a button up polyester shirt. For rain gear, or as extra protection from cold, wind, bugs, etc. I personally like froggtoggs. They are cheap and light. Everyone has there favorite gear though. Carry a fleece jacket, even if your not using it, a storm could come in at any time, and it will make a good pillow if not. You can find light weight jackets that weigh a pound or less. The last piece of clothing I would think about including would be a light weight, long sleeve shirt you could hike in, just in case… Maybe a long sleeve mid weight smartwool t-shirt. For underwear I carry one pair of UnderArmour shorts, they prevent chaffing. For socks I love SmartWool. A hat w/ a brim for sun, and a beanie for cold. Maybe some gloves.
I’d really think twice about carrying less clothing to save a little weight. Clothing is the backpackers first and most important line of defense against the elements, and there have been times in the most unlikely of places that I have been glad to have packed my fleece and/or my rain pants, etc. This includes a snow squall in the Smokies on the AT in May.
Just my 2 cents, have a great time on your trip Mahna.
Peace,
Mellow
Mellow Mike
I am planning a section hike to start at Springer on april 13th. I will hike to Franklin, NC. May see you on the trai!
PapaDoc
PapaDoc
Thanks all for the advice. Right now it looks like I am going to start April 15th and try to make Damascus by Trail Days.
It my pack is stocked pretty much to the T with everyones suggestions. I feel validated.
I hope I catch you before Franklin PapaDoc.
Mahna Mahna
Mahna Mahna