AT Travel Options

imported
#1

Hello all,
Last June, I started my section hike of the Appalachian trail. I flew into Atlanta, took the Marta to North Springs and was shuttled to the trailhead by Hacksaw’s brother. I made it about 40 miles north, to Unicoi gap.
This year, I’ll be starting on May 15th for 2 weeks, and I would like to book my Airline tickets early. Unicoi Gap is about a 2.5 hour drive from Atlanta. Is there a location further North that I can fly in and out of? And if so, would anyone have reccomendations for shuttle options from that area?

Thanks,
Greg

Persistence

#2

Atlanta is still the closest major airport, sorry. I think it’s about a 3 hr drive from knoxville. The town at unicoi gap is Hiawassee, GA. you might want to call their chamber of commerce and see how people get there? I can’t help with shuttles. The ATC might be able to though. www.atconf.org.

Grimace MEGA '01

Grimace

#3

In April 2001, I section hiked for 2 weeks from Amicalola Falls S.P. to Rock Gap NC near Standing Indian Campground. I drove my truck to Amicalola, hiked to Rock Gap, and a shuttle returned me to Amicalola. Worked very well. My shuttle was Gary Fleeman. Great guy – great price, too. He is listed on the new trailplace(dot)com website.
For April 2003, I’m planning another 2-week section hike from Rock Gap to Davenport Gap (Waterville) or possibly Hot Springs. Unfortunately, I am out of Gary’s range. I’m thinking of flying in and out of Asheville NC and using a shuttle for the trip to and from the A.T. However, I’m finding the cost of the shuttle is more than the plane ticket. I pass this on because it seems the further you advance northward on a section hike, the harder it is to get a shuttle between the A.T. and the closest major airport. I would like to know about the experiences others have had trying to section hike. Thanks, all.

Bandana_Man

#4

Flying into Asheville is probably a good way to go. From
there take Greyhound to Waynesville. Call the ‘Hike Inn’, and
they’ll likely be able to arrange a shuttle for you to the AT.
The Hoch’s are great advocates for the AT and hikers.
(you can get the Hoch’s phone number in the ALDHA Companion)

Scamp

Scamp