Does anybody know what kind of shape State Road 42 is in? I understand it is a gravel road? How far is it to Springer parking lot from the nearest main road?
Thank You
_50/50_Road Question - Appalachian Trail
system
#1
system
#2
Hi! I just dropped my hiker off on 42 this past Saturday, 3/2. It's exactly 6.5 miles from the nearest road to the parking lot. We drove up the day before too, just to get a sense of the road. It's gravel, but is in pretty good shape. There are ups and downs and curves and a few potholes here and there. I had no problem in our Saturn Ion, even Saturday morning with a layer of snow on the road.
_Mrs. Sparrow_
system
#3
Why not take to appraoch trail from Amicalola Falls as this route will provide for an overll easier start to the trip. The first day from Springer Mt. is also easy but shortly thereafter the trail transitions into more difficult terrain.
By starting with an extra day of relatively easier hiking the body can adjust more gradually to the rigors which lie ahead.
On a personal note, I have notice a higher percentage of the folks starting at the falls are still on the trail past the Mason Dixon Line than those who catch a ride up the hill. When you reach Pennsylvania ask some of your friends where they started from and you may be surprised how many actually started at the falls.
In the grand scheme of things it is an extra day to savor before the trip ends all too soon. Besides, skipping sections can mentally find one on a slippery slope as there will always be quicker ways into towns via blue blazes into town and yellow blazes from section to section. A good suggestion would be to follow the trail without regards to any time constraints.
There is ample time for hiking from Georgia to Maine without having to push the body beyond what it is comfortable with at the onset. Let those bones adjust to a healthier lifestyle than most experience back home as gradually as possible.
_stealthblew_
system
#4
while i agree that the approach trail is not difficult and does not deserve the reputation it has, i want to point out that the 8 mile section from springer to hawk is one of the easiest in ga. if the easiest start is your objective then start at springer. otherwise, i like the approach trail.
_imo_