We have been at Brown Gap for 6 days now and have seen all of 4 people. (1 SoBo!) I thought this was supposed to be a record year. 
Brown Gap is 1 day out from the Smokies. “Legend” just came thru the Smokies and said he saw exactly one person the entire way, and it was the solitary SoBo! angel Apple
angel apple
Today is Feb 17. It’s mid-Winter. Those 4 hearty souls were the bubble.(the crazy bubble, that is) Try back on April 17.
Francis
I believe this WILL b a record year. Most of the hikers that jump on the wagon will probably leave in March or April like the majority of north bounders usually due. We will know soon. Look out for the herd!
Terodactyle
I believe it will be the highest number year thus far, next year possibly as well… remember however, MARCH 1 - APRIL 15th is when the 1st 100 miles get crushed!! Your out early, many potential thru-hikers are checking the future weather each day, and looking for their “bubble” to begin… by Mid-March, you will see a mass exodus! KEEP WARM! Happy Hiking! SOLACE
SOLACE