Preparing in Florida

imported
#1

I really would like to thru-hike the AT in 2008. I was wondering if there was anyone out there who lived in an area with little to no elevation (like Florida) prior to hiking the AT? I would like some suggestions for physically preparing myself for the hike. There really aren’t any places to hike in my immediate area that would be comparable to the terrain I will face on the trail. I would love ideas for testing gear, preparing myself etc without having to take a trip to the mountains… (as I will need to be saving as much money as possible) I don’t mind utilizing bridges/stairs etc…just looking for some creative ideas!

Thanks in advance!

gina

#2

I’m preparing here in Louisiana where the highest elevation is around 500 feet by climbing Tiger Stadium over and over with my pack on. As for testing my gear, we have a 31 mile trail that has an elevation gain of about 50 feet, but it is outside, so I can camp out there for days on end, shaking down my gear. good luck to you, just hope your ears don’t pop when you climb springer (mine will)

Mudbug

mudbug

#3

it puts me at ease to know someone else is in the same shoes! i can’t wait to start training…

gina

#4

The section of the Florida Trail that runs along the Suwannee River is pretty good training. Lots of ravines, plenty of places to camp and lots of water for filtering/treating. Good luck!

Duffy

#5

I wouldn’t worry about it to much. I didn’t prepare at all before my hike a was just fine. Most of the people I finished with hadn’t prepared much. It’s all about how much you enjoy the AT experience that will keep you out there. My Dad hasn’t exercised in decades and went out to CO last August with me for a month. The hiking was tough in the beginning, but that’s when you take it slow and have more time to look around. Good luck no matter what your system. I just wouldn’t sweat the prep work to hard.

Lpasso

#6

Gina,
You will want to read “The Wandering Bull” TJs, posted here from 2005. He did the FT and went on to the AT that year. I just tried to post the link, but it didn’t go thru. Good luck!

StarLyte

#7

hey gina,
I live in Panama City and hiked in 2005. I had practically had no training, other than going to the gym, i.e. weights and running on the treadmill. I made it to Vermont with practically no training before I hurt my knee and had to come home. The first couple of weeks will whip you into shape, although it may not be very fun, mind you.

But if you are looking to get out some, try Torreya State Park, just north of the Blountstown/Bristol area off of Hwy 20. They have a 15 mile loop trail that has a killer hill. Best luck.

flyingturtle

#8

thank you everyone for your suggestions and responses. i really appreciate the assistance!! hope to get out there spring 2008!

gina