I know thru-hikers start much earlier but how much traffic will you find starting at Springer this time of year?
New Moon
AT Traffic - Appalachian Trail
system
#2
weekenders, dayhikers, a few sectioners…
when I section hiked in the area at this time of year it was usually rather light. Pass a few people in the day. We had numerous shelters to ourselves, mostly during the work week, share a few shelters.
It is hot! Have fun. Sue/HH
Hammock Hanger
system
#3
With water being so important this time of year, you might want to cache some water either at Cooper Gap or Horse Gap, if you’re planning to do a section or two. The trail is pretty much dry from Hawk Mtn. to Justus Creek(Devils Kitchen) area, so either you need to carry extra water between these two areas, be hot and thirsty, or know you have some water available if you need it. We met several hikers back at the end of March, who ended up having to camp in those two Gap areas, who were short of water. We camped at Horse Gap, and was very glad we had cached water, as the temps were getting warm even that early. Happy Trails, Swallowtail
Swallowtail