I am starting a thru hike on Feb 18th 2013 Would like to meet other potential hikers for traveling partners. I could be flexible on the start date just want a jump start on the common start times for most thru hikers
_Groundpounder_Partners - Appalachian Trail
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#1
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#2
I am planning on starting March 18th, but recently have been thinking of changing it to a week earlier- March 11. I don't want to start on a common day to avoid crowds of hundreds!
I know a lot of people just meet other hikers at the trailhead or along the way, but I feel a bit overwhelmed about going into this alone! I, too, am looking for a hiking partner(s)!
_S.E._
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#4
Concerning the AT thru Smokies Mtns, can anybody give me feedback on if there is food supply and enclosed shelter in early March during the 70 mile strech? Is this section all mtn elevations which is more of a concern that time of year? What ever I read to better inform me talks about NH and ME challenges but 6600ft in March in the smokies seems extreme as well.
_groundpounder_
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#6
You could see snow in any of the early sections in Feb and March. There is no way no knowing what the weather will be but you will need to plan for it. As far as Smokies resupply, you can stop at newfound gap and head into either Gatlinburg or Cherokee nc. if you do start early, take a decent insulating pad, the shelter floors will be cold with the exposed air below them.
_Gg-man_