LOON Exists

For those of you who have read my AT web page you may remember the quote from LOON about the hikers' major mistakes of: too fast, too soon, too far, and too much.

While at the hostel at Mountain Crossing (Neels Gap)I met LOON. He is hiking this year having formed a group called the Geezer Hikers. He leads a group of senior citizens who "slack pack" between hostels. When necessary due to road closings or other irregularities they will overnight on the Trail. Their plan is to take their time and get to Maine.

He is part of this amazing AT Community who move up and down the Trail yearly. Each one contributing a piece to this vibrant growing mosaic.

Sack Packing means to day hike. They hike with a small backpack or fanny pack. They carry water, snacks, rain gear; but, no heavy pack, no sleeping bag, tent, etc. The purist might call a foul but so what!

Let me breakdown what he said and meant:
TOO FAST: Traveling too fast blows out your legs, frustrates you psychologically, saps your enthusiasm, and tires you to the point of wanting to quit. Slow down, view and enjoy the surroundings.

TOO SOON, No one can remember a through hiker making it all the way who left in January/February. Weather can ruin the hike. The Smokies, when I stared March 15thy, were covered in ice and drifts of snow 5 feet deep.By Easter the ice shroud was gone and most of the snow vanished as well. But snow can happen in April and May. Starting April 1 offers longer sunlight days, lessens the chance of snow and cold, and brings spring to your hike faster.

TOO FAR: In the beginning, it is best to shorten the daily miles to a reasonable five to eight miles. 15 mile days can wait unless you are experienced in hiking the AT itself. No other trail is like it and Georgia is challenging.

TOO MUCH:Think 30 pounds max; fight to get to 30 pounds. Include water (two liters) and food for each day out in that 30 pounds. 45, 50, 60 pound packs are common on the Trail but their owners scream for help. That is where Mountain Crossing comes in. Their pack shakedowns are legendary. As the only store the Trail passes through this outfitter ships six tons of goods back home each seasons. Located at the 30.7 mile marker they are the fist outfitter since starting. Some make the hike from Springer in three days others four. For many blisters are already causing problems.

Also, initially, your body will burn off existing fat supplies so you do not need to carry 4000 calories menus. In fact your body will not want to eat that much as it adjusts to the Trail. You will only carry it as extra cargo.

There compelling desire among novice hikers to "hike the shelters." In the North Bound Start Season (March - April) the shelters fill up fast as does the surrounding area. Forget the shelters initially and pace yourself for five to eight mile days. There is good water all along the Trail and not just at the shelters. Stop often, refill often, snack often and enjoy the day.