Moving it up a year..(maybe!)

imported
#1

I’m thinking of moving my hike up a year and going in '07 if I can save up enough money. It all depends on how disciplined I can be about saving and how many ‘unexpected expenses’ come up. My main concern right now is the money issue and getting transportation to the trail and then to the closest airport once I get to Maine so I can fly back to Orlando. (Although I’ve read in many places that I shouldn’t worry much about what I’ll do when I finish as far as getting home.) Anyone have any tips on planning transportation to the trail? I thought about seeing if a friend could get me to the Hiker’s Hostel and then getting a ride from there (do they drop you at the approach trail or near the first white blaze?) I’m also researching gear like crazy and I finally got on the women’s hiker group on yahoo so I think they may be able to help. Anyway, I’m sorry I’m just rambling here…I guess I just need some reassurance that I can do this!!! And if anyone has any ideas for kicking up my planning, let me know.
:slight_smile: Mindi

Mindi

#2

Getting to the trail is not hard. If you fly you can take a bus up to Dahlonega and then a $20 dollar taxi to the visitor’s center. Obviously you could take a bus directly from Orlando to Dahlonega. Once at the visitor’s center, you can either stay at the inn, but to save money I would stay at the free shelter behind the visitor’s center. In the morning you can either hike the approach trail or ask around and see if any other hikers are heading up to the trail head neat the summit of Springer. I hear the Hostel is awesome, but if you’re looking to save money, just head straight to the park. As far as getting home, I wouldn’t worry about that until New England. When you finish, odds are there will be a ton of others with you. Catch a ride to nearby Millinocket and from there a bus to Bangor, ME or Boston, MA.
Lastly, don’t stress too much about money. Obviously it’s important, but remember you can save money splitting motel rooms, getting stuff out of hiker boxes, and doing work for stay. It’s going to be more important to be a little tight with money on the trail, but don’t forget to have fun. Remember town days are where you spend money, The trail itself is free.

Nokia

#3

I’ll be headed up to Springer in late March/Early April '07 from Jax, to begin my long awaited thru. You could help me and my better-half drive…

email me off forum for phone number if interested

chiefduffy

#4

I sent you an email chiefduffy…let me know if you didn’t get it as I have had some problems with my email on here.
I want to thank everyone who has sent me private emails and everyone on here who has responded to my posts :D…I hope I’ll be joining the class of '07 with some of you. I can’t wait!!! Have a great holiday everyone!
:slight_smile: Mindi

Mindi