Is it better to go from Maine to Georgia
Also on equipment I would suggest a good external frame backpack, tent and sleeping bag, the compact kind made for backpacking. Sorry if I am being obvious. What time of year would you be planning on going?
What type of tarp and ground cloth do you recomend?
I'd love to do the whole thing. I read about it, hike parts often and discuss it constantly. Right now isn't the best time. I never went away to college and always worked so getting off for 6 months was a MMMMM and now that I'm married with a child on the way, it'd be a bit tough.
That may be what I will have to do. I have twins who are 4 and my wife isn't to happy about me going for that long period of time. Wish I had done it in college when I had the chance.
My fear of having your story (like so many other with the same story) is why I decided to take a semester off of college and just do it.
Having said that, I know a lot of people who have pieced together the entire trail and become what is called a 2,000 miler. They are recognized just like thruhikers and I think it would be an excellenet experience.
If you're able to do a couple long weekends and maybe a full week or two a year you'd have it nocked off in no time.
Good luck!
:elkgrin:
My two do like to go hiking in the woods. Maybe this year I will have them carry camelbacks and their own snacks.Get the kids started on short hiking adventures now and take 'em with you when they're older!
Mine are 4, 7 & 9 and have been hiking since each was able to walk. They all carry their own camelbacks and snacks as well.
Otherwise, I'd agree with some of the other folks who've suggested hiking it in pieces.
Key is to make it enjoyable. Don't try to do too much at once and enjoy the journey. If you're interested, I have a great treadmill hiking workout that I use through the winter when my outdoors time is down.
Have fun.
Are there any websites, Forums?
Will check that book out. Thank you:coffeedrink:Most important tip, aim to keep your pack under 25lbs but expect at least in the beginning to be around 35lbs. As was said earilier, use a good quality tarp or hammock system for shelter. If you plan to use a tent, aim for one under 4lbs but that is going to be one expensive tent. On thru hiking trips, every ounce counts. Weight every item idividually while packing and then determine if it is necassary. By the end of the first week, you'll be suprised what you've eliminated from your pack.
Keep meals simple but nutritious, you'll be too tired to prepare a gourmet meal.
Learn before you leave how to properly hang a bear bag... It's not just the bears that want your food...
Nothing will prepare you for the onslaught of insects through the 100 miles of maine. The flies will literally drive you out of the woods... You just have to suffer through it... Once you hit the summit of Katahdin you'll be glad you perservered.
Read Bill Bryson's "A Walk In the Woods". Good read and very funny and informational...
Enjoy Everyday!