This July I’m hoping to finally finishing the last 500 miles I missed on 2009 SOBO hike. I’ve never been to the South in summer. What will the mosquito and bug situation be like in TN/NC/GA in July? Will it be cold enough to justify bringing rain gear? Thanks,
Craig in Oregon
Craig
In my experience, a light, light, light rain jacket would be prudent (good for cool rain, cool morning, as well as bug protection).
Bugs will be hit or miss. They can be, at most, bothersome at some shelters in the evening, nonexistant at others (but nothing like the horror stories I hear about you Sobos’ June in New England).
Matt
Bugs won’t be a problem for the most part, just be mindful of shelters at low elevations…bugs can be present. Do bring rain gear…a jacket that is, you probably don’t need the pants.
Buggy
If you don’t take rain pants, remember the “Hefty Cinch Sack rain skirt”. Always handy to have and weighs next to nothing.:tongue
Lady Di
Mosquitos and ticks are very bad this year. Be prepared. It’s been a really wet spring, raining about 8 days out of 10 (20 minutes of thunderstorm rain is still rain). This keeps you wet, the trail muddy and causes all the Mosquitos and ticks to multiply exponentially. And the Humidity is really high most days because of it. Close to 99 percent some days. You can see the moisture swirling in the air.
Plus copperheads and timber rattlers are out. My dog got popped three times on the foot by a copperhead this week. Just keep eyes on the trail and don’t use any logs to sit across when taking a nature break unless you look real close around them first! 
Big Dee
Forgot to mention them. GNATS are bad right now. Being extra sweaty in the humidity doesn’t help. And down around Dahlonega, they have Knats. Which are Gnats that fly in military precision as they dive bomb your eyes and ears.
Hike safely!:cheers
Big Dee