My daughter and I are planning to hike a section of the AT, in the Pearisburg Va area in early September. The plan is to drive to a hostel, leave the car there, and get a shuttle to take us 50 or so miles south, so we can hike back to the hostel and the car. I've been trying to get out several times a week, power-walking a trail near my home, and I think I'll be OK. My daughter is young (31) and in good shape, so I'll be the one trying to keep up with her.
As far as gear goes, we're both pretty set, although I'm using this trip as an excuse to get a good down sleeping bag in the 20-30 degree range.
I'm thinking that we may see some of the southbound hikers at that point, and that would be cool to talk to some folks who've hiked down from Maine.
But, the one big question involves what kind of weather we should plan for. I plan to talk to the people at the hostel on Monday and I'll ask them, and we'll probably take enough clothes for pretty cold weather, and then make the final decision on what goes in the packs when we get there.
Any INGOers have any AT advice? Any hints would be welcome.
As far as gear goes, we're both pretty set, although I'm using this trip as an excuse to get a good down sleeping bag in the 20-30 degree range.
I'm thinking that we may see some of the southbound hikers at that point, and that would be cool to talk to some folks who've hiked down from Maine.
But, the one big question involves what kind of weather we should plan for. I plan to talk to the people at the hostel on Monday and I'll ask them, and we'll probably take enough clothes for pretty cold weather, and then make the final decision on what goes in the packs when we get there.
Any INGOers have any AT advice? Any hints would be welcome.