Anyone up for a 3 day section from the NOC to Fontana Dam in the next couple weeks? Planing to take it easy and do about 10 mile days (maybe 7-8 on the first day). I’d like to get this section out of the way before winter, and then do the Smokies in the spring.
Nooga
It’s 29 miles. The first day, I would like to make it 10.5 miles to Locust Cove Gap campsite after a good rest at Sassafrass Gap Shelter around mile 7 (looks like I’ll need it after that elevation change!). Day 2 I’d like to hike around 11.5 miles to Cable Gap Shelter leaving only 7 miles to Fontana for the third day. The milage is, of course, flexible but these seem to be pretty good camp sites with a water source on the maps. It would be nice to be able to car pool between the two points, but it may be easier to make an appointment with “The Hike Inn” to shuttle back to the NOC the third evening.
Nooga
Well, nooga I wish I could join you. It seems the next time I can get off work will be a three day weekend staring Dec 12. Have fun on your trip!
guru
I just missed you on your recent section hike up to NOC. Cajun Camel and myself were a day behind you it seems. We also ended up at NOC instead of going all the way to Fontana as we had planned. I would love to join you at NOC since that’s where I’ll be starting back, but… WORK calls instead! Have fun.
Zydecajun
Guru and Zydecajun, I hear you about having to work. I’m still in the transition between my summer job and finding work for the winter. As soon as I get my Brasslite stove and I see 3 good weather days forecasted, I’ll be heading out (if a job doesn’t materialize).
Nooga