AAABatteries
Footballguy
Yep - me too. Us East Coasters don’t have to worry about them and mountain lions
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Hiking (1 Viewer)
- Thread starter TheIronSheik
- Start date
Yep - me too. Us East Coasters don’t have to worry about them and mountain lions
Jaysus
Good times!
GDB ticks tho
AAABatteries
Footballguy
Always a good excuse to check me out naked
AAABatteries
Footballguy
Back - I’m exhausted. We pushed our 6 day plan in to 5 days (much more on that latter) but I survived.
I’ll give a tl;dr version of my trip report now. 5 days, ~60 miles, zero bears, one orange salamander, beautiful views, insane elevation, mistakes were made, one fall, whiskey consumed, fantastic time was had.
I’ll give a tl;dr version of my trip report now. 5 days, ~60 miles, zero bears, one orange salamander, beautiful views, insane elevation, mistakes were made, one fall, whiskey consumed, fantastic time was had.
AAABatteries
Footballguy
Apologies in advance that this will be much, much too long but I usually do a debrief after coming back from a trip like this and these posts will help me with that.
As I've mentioned in here a few times I've been doing Appalachian Trail (AT) segments with my buddy for several years now. We haven't made it too terribly far but it's a lot of fun and very challenging and rewarding. For somebody like me who didn't grow up doing these things and sits behind a desk all day it's just a fantastic experience. So pardon my indulgence with multiple super long posts about the trip. I'm going to model this similar to the fantastic race reports that the running guys do in the 10k thread.
As I've mentioned in here a few times I've been doing Appalachian Trail (AT) segments with my buddy for several years now. We haven't made it too terribly far but it's a lot of fun and very challenging and rewarding. For somebody like me who didn't grow up doing these things and sits behind a desk all day it's just a fantastic experience. So pardon my indulgence with multiple super long posts about the trip. I'm going to model this similar to the fantastic race reports that the running guys do in the 10k thread.
AAABatteries
Footballguy
Pre-Planning
First, I'll give a little more context on what we are doing and where we are. My buddy did the first couple of segments with some mutual friends and I didn't go. They started at Springer Mountain, which is the Southern Terminus for the AT and had gone out twice. I caught up to them by doing a few really long day hikes and then we went out for our next segment. This makes the third segment I've done with them over the last several years.
This particular trip/segment has been a long time in the making. We originally started planning after our last time out in November of 2020 - Covid made things a logistics challenge but we had it schedule for October last year and I reinjured my right ankle and had to have surgery.
Fitness
My surgery was last Nov/Dec and I was in a cast for 6-8 weeks. Then another month in a walking boot and 2 more months of rehab before I could do anything. By the time spring got here I was fat and out of shape. I spent the last 6 months getting ready and really only the last 2 months doing some serious hiking with weight on my back. Not ideal but I was fairly confident if I could shed the weight and the ankle continued to get stronger I would be ok.
I dropped about 30 pounds from spring until we went out. I would have preferred to be around 170 but was 182 the day we left. Good enough and most importantly the ankle felt strong and I really had no other nagging injuries. But, I'm 48, sit behind a desk all day and hadn't done an official backpacking trip in 24 months - so there was definitely a concern.
First, I'll give a little more context on what we are doing and where we are. My buddy did the first couple of segments with some mutual friends and I didn't go. They started at Springer Mountain, which is the Southern Terminus for the AT and had gone out twice. I caught up to them by doing a few really long day hikes and then we went out for our next segment. This makes the third segment I've done with them over the last several years.
This particular trip/segment has been a long time in the making. We originally started planning after our last time out in November of 2020 - Covid made things a logistics challenge but we had it schedule for October last year and I reinjured my right ankle and had to have surgery.
Fitness
My surgery was last Nov/Dec and I was in a cast for 6-8 weeks. Then another month in a walking boot and 2 more months of rehab before I could do anything. By the time spring got here I was fat and out of shape. I spent the last 6 months getting ready and really only the last 2 months doing some serious hiking with weight on my back. Not ideal but I was fairly confident if I could shed the weight and the ankle continued to get stronger I would be ok.
I dropped about 30 pounds from spring until we went out. I would have preferred to be around 170 but was 182 the day we left. Good enough and most importantly the ankle felt strong and I really had no other nagging injuries. But, I'm 48, sit behind a desk all day and hadn't done an official backpacking trip in 24 months - so there was definitely a concern.
AAABatteries
Footballguy
Planning
Once we firm up our dates, I always agonize over the details - the itinerary and my gear.
Itinerary
As you may have seen in the thread, we went around and around on this. Originally, a 6-day 57 mile segment became 2-3 days and only 27 miles. For those not familiar with the AT and how most people do segments, you basically have limited entry and exit points to the trail. Namely, roads - either main roads or sometimes Forest Service roads. Typical segment for us would be to drive two cars - leave one at the exit point and then drive back to the entry point, hike through and get the cars and head home. As we work our way up the trail that becomes more of a pain - two cars, twice the gas, etc. For this trip we decided to use an AT shuttle service for the first time. Basically Uber for hikers - some are more professional than others but typically they are fairly knowledgeable and setup to take hikers, their gear and drop them off or pick them up wherever they want. For folks doing a thru-hike these are indispensable - they will pick you up and take you in to town to refuel, stay at a hostel/bunk house/hotel and get a decent meal/shower. I think it's probably possible to refuel by only hitting places right on the trail or close by and not have to use a shuttle but my understanding is that is very uncommon.
Once we finally decided on our segment we finalized on November 1st-6th (6 days) to cover Winding Stair Gap to Fontana Dam. I didn't realize this until I was back but if you use the resource Wikitrails and use their segments it is the 2nd highest average grade segment across the entire trail. The average grade over those 57 miles is 10.6%.
As I mentioned previously, the plan was 6 days and we condensed it down to 5 days on the fly - because we are stubborn and stupid. The best thing we did was to park at the midway point at the Nantahala Outdoor Center and leave the car there with supplies to refuel at the halfway point. This was maybe our best decision of the trip.
Our 6 days looked like this:
Gear
I won't go in to excruciating detail here like I could but thought some might be interested in some of the gear I take:
For those who care - final tally:
Oh, one other thing I'll mention - food - I think standard is 1.5 to 2.5 pounds of food per day, with 2 pounds being the standard. I tend to come in a little under that. I was at 1.75 pounds of food per day.
Apologies again on the length of the posts. Also, I'm not done uploading images of the trip yet so going to pause here as I want to add some pic links in the next few posts.
Once we firm up our dates, I always agonize over the details - the itinerary and my gear.
Itinerary
As you may have seen in the thread, we went around and around on this. Originally, a 6-day 57 mile segment became 2-3 days and only 27 miles. For those not familiar with the AT and how most people do segments, you basically have limited entry and exit points to the trail. Namely, roads - either main roads or sometimes Forest Service roads. Typical segment for us would be to drive two cars - leave one at the exit point and then drive back to the entry point, hike through and get the cars and head home. As we work our way up the trail that becomes more of a pain - two cars, twice the gas, etc. For this trip we decided to use an AT shuttle service for the first time. Basically Uber for hikers - some are more professional than others but typically they are fairly knowledgeable and setup to take hikers, their gear and drop them off or pick them up wherever they want. For folks doing a thru-hike these are indispensable - they will pick you up and take you in to town to refuel, stay at a hostel/bunk house/hotel and get a decent meal/shower. I think it's probably possible to refuel by only hitting places right on the trail or close by and not have to use a shuttle but my understanding is that is very uncommon.
Once we finally decided on our segment we finalized on November 1st-6th (6 days) to cover Winding Stair Gap to Fontana Dam. I didn't realize this until I was back but if you use the resource Wikitrails and use their segments it is the 2nd highest average grade segment across the entire trail. The average grade over those 57 miles is 10.6%.
As I mentioned previously, the plan was 6 days and we condensed it down to 5 days on the fly - because we are stubborn and stupid. The best thing we did was to park at the midway point at the Nantahala Outdoor Center and leave the car there with supplies to refuel at the halfway point. This was maybe our best decision of the trip.
Our 6 days looked like this:
- Day 1 - Tuesday - Winding Stair Gap to Siler Bald - 4.6 miles
- Day 2 - Wednesday - Siler Bald to Cold Spring Shelter - 11.2 miles
- Day 3 - Thursday - Cold Spring Shelter to NOC - 11.7 miles
- Day 4 - Friday - NOC to Sassafras Gap Shelter - 6.7 miles
- Day 5 - Saturday - Sassafras Gap to Cody Gap (tent) - 12.0 miles
- Day 6 - Sunday - Cody Gap to Fontana Dam Visitor Center - 10.3 miles
Gear
I won't go in to excruciating detail here like I could but thought some might be interested in some of the gear I take:
- Pack - Osprey Aether 60L - I love this pack, it fits me great and pretty much holds everything I need for one of these trips. But it's heavy - 5lb 2oz. I like the tradeoff because I find all the features great but damn, I wish it was a pound or two lighter
- Bag - Kelty Tuck 22F Degree Mummy Sleeping Bag - works great for what I need it. Again, kind of heavy at a little over 3 pounds - this will be a running them. I'm not an ultralightweight guy - don't have the money for something I don't do a lot
- Tent - speaking of way too freaking heavy. We try to stay in shelters, but you have to take a tent unless you are a caveman or badass and can sleep on the ground. I'm neither so I carry a tent, even if I may never use it. I've got to get a different tent before the next time I go - or switch to a hammock system. I have a REI
- Sleeping pad - other than my pack, it's possibly my most critical piece of gear. This pad is great and lets me get a good night sleep whether I'm in the shelter or my tent.
- The rest - clothes, food, water, cooking system, toiletries, headlamp (Black Diamond), trekking poles, trail runners, fire starters
For those who care - final tally:
- Base weight - around 22 pounds
- Total weight - around 30-31 pounds (3 days of food and 73 oz of water
- I like to have fun and be on an adventure, but I want to be prepared and comfortable. I'm not sleeping on the ground or not taking a change of clothes just to cut weight.
- But all my gear is too heavy. My knees and legs couldn't take much more than what I did unless I get in much better shape or go with ultra-lightweight gear
Oh, one other thing I'll mention - food - I think standard is 1.5 to 2.5 pounds of food per day, with 2 pounds being the standard. I tend to come in a little under that. I was at 1.75 pounds of food per day.
Apologies again on the length of the posts. Also, I'm not done uploading images of the trip yet so going to pause here as I want to add some pic links in the next few posts.
AAABatteries
Footballguy
2045 if I’m still alive. Cornhole?
Senor Schmutzig
Footballguy
Looking to head out to the Santa Fe NM area in May sometime to do some camping/hiking with a buddy. Would like to stay in a rental cabin with fire pit so we can drive and do some day hikes. Don’t necessarily need glamping, just a spot that’s protected, comfortable with warm showers so we can come back to the campsite after 10-15 miles on the trail, take a hot shower, make some dinner and sit around the fire drinking/smoking.
Looking for any and all recommendations to start narrowing things down.
Looking for any and all recommendations to start narrowing things down.
Terminalxylem
Footballguy
That same question applies to a lot of outdoor activities - cycling and climbing immediately come to mind.
When I was younger, I bought a bunch of ultra lightweight gear, thinking it would make a huge difference. Decades later, I realized it’s a lot cheaper to stick with lightweight, but not extremely light stuff, and lose 5 pounds of body weight instead. It’s also better for health and fitness.
Terminalxylem
Footballguy
Don’t know about Santa Fe, but nearby La Luz trail in Albuquerque, is a nice, moderately strenuous day hike.
AAABatteries
Footballguy
That Paria is the exact pad I have too. It’s great but yes, heavy. I just suck it up with the minimal backpacking I do.
Senor Schmutzig
Footballguy
That's awesome. All great stuff. Will start using that information as a base for planning.
I am all for some breweries but my buddy doesn't eschew any hops of the liquid variety anymore and sticks solely to other buds. But we both are into good grub so it sounds like there may be some good options.
Senor Schmutzig
Footballguy
That place looks awesome. Definitely looking for something in this direction however it does have that influencer vibe to it but it looks pretty cool. We are just two dudes that have been friends since middle school just looking to do some hiking, catch-up and get the **** away from things for a week or so. No influencing happening here. LOL
Senor Schmutzig
Footballguy
Does anyone use hiking/trekking poles? Was thinking about getting some for the trip to New Mexico later this month.
More for stability when traveling on rocky terrain versus any current issues i.e. knees.
More for stability when traveling on rocky terrain versus any current issues i.e. knees.
The Man With No Name
Footballguy
Staying in Gatlinburg and doing Smoky Mountains hikes in 3 weeks. Any recommenfations? Long hikes, short hikes, tough hikes, multiple hikes per day are all fine by me.
In The Zone
Footballguy
We're going two times this year so I've been doing some research. I have a few that I'm eyeballing.
One of the most popular hikes is Laurel Falls 2.14 miles in length and not much elevation gain.
Next, Cataract Falls. You can take this one right from the Sugarland Visitor Center right outside of Gatlinburg. Very short hike.
The one I'm looking forward to is the Alum Cave Trail . This one is a little more difficult but definitely looks to be worth it.
Finally, Clingmans Dome Only a half mile hike it's all uphill. This is the highest point in the Smokies.
Don't forget to purchase your parking pass if you plan to park more than 15 minutes anywhere in the GSMNP. The new policy started in March. Parking Pass Explained
Not hikes but drives to check out. Of course Cades Cove if you have the time to drive out that way. Also The Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail looks like a great experience and is right outside of Gatlinburg.
Safe Travels and have a blast.
AAABatteries
Footballguy
Carbon Fiber Quick Lock Trekking Poles (Cork Grip) - Black
Hiking trekking poles for any outdoor enthusiast, lightweight carbon fiber or durable aluminum – we’ve got the trekking poles and accessories for enjoyable exploration.cascademountaintech.com
I have put several hundred miles on NM trails with these poles. I think they were around $40 on Amazon when I bought them, price has gone up but Costco occasionally has them on sale for a bit less. They help quite a bit when traversing rocky terrain, when there is a lot of elevation gain/loss, and when rock hopping across creeks. You will feel like a nerd at first but they are worth it.
There are some YouTube videos on how to properly use the straps/grips for maximum efficiency and comfort.
Costco today
AAABatteries
Footballguy
Use them always when backpacking. Day hikes I’ll sometimes use them or if I’m using it as training and have weight on my back. I couldn’t go without them doing AT segments.
shuke
Black Ice Skeptic
Keep in mind, Clingmans Dome isn't really a "hike". It's a paved road from the parking lot. Views are good but it's super crowded and is too "man-made" for me.
However, near the lot is the trail head for Andrews Bald trail. This will be way less crowded. Trail is moderate with a lot rocks/roots/inclines. Good spot to see bears, we saw fresh scat and a few people we passed on the trail stated they saw one at different spots.
I'll try to find some pics.
In The Zone
Footballguy
If I'm not mistaken I think that the AT passes through there as well.
AAABatteries
Footballguy
It does - just as you start going up the paved path to the Clingsman’s Dome lookout the AT crosses. You can walk a small portion of it while you are there and call yourself a section hiker!
Senor Schmutzig
Footballguy
Heading out to New Mexico on Sunday to do some hiking with 2 buddies. Can't wait. Flying into ABQ, renting a car and then doing some "provisioning" at REI, Albertsons and the Everest Cannabis Co.
We are staying the first night at some camp/bunk outside of Santa Fe before heading a little further north into Taos where we will use as our base for 4 more nights.
I have a series of hikes that we will plan to do that range from 5.5 to 15 miles. We are all about 50 and in average shape so which hike we go on each day will depend on how we feel that day.
Bought two pairs of new Salewa's for this trip. I swear by this brand for being super comfortable, no-blister and grippy. I first bought a pair of their Lite Train shoes about 5 years ago before going on a Grand Canyon hiking/boating trip and have bought 4 more pairs since. I was able to snap up an extra pair of the same Lite Train model when they went on clearance and were discontinued. Moved onto the Lite Train K's and they were okay but I really missed the original Lite Train.
Here's what I will be using this trip:
Salewa Alp Trainer 2 for more "heartier" hikes
Salewa Pedroc Air for lighter hikes, trail running/speed hiking
We are staying the first night at some camp/bunk outside of Santa Fe before heading a little further north into Taos where we will use as our base for 4 more nights.
I have a series of hikes that we will plan to do that range from 5.5 to 15 miles. We are all about 50 and in average shape so which hike we go on each day will depend on how we feel that day.
Bought two pairs of new Salewa's for this trip. I swear by this brand for being super comfortable, no-blister and grippy. I first bought a pair of their Lite Train shoes about 5 years ago before going on a Grand Canyon hiking/boating trip and have bought 4 more pairs since. I was able to snap up an extra pair of the same Lite Train model when they went on clearance and were discontinued. Moved onto the Lite Train K's and they were okay but I really missed the original Lite Train.
Here's what I will be using this trip:
Salewa Alp Trainer 2 for more "heartier" hikes
Salewa Pedroc Air for lighter hikes, trail running/speed hiking
Jaysus
Good times!
I am a big fan of trail runners... but I like me a big toe box. Topo Athletic have become my favorite 
STEADYMOBBIN 22
Footballguy
I’ve got a good buddy who hiked the whole AP , starting in Maine to Georgia AND back a half dozen times. Total maniac. I love him.
Senor Schmutzig
Footballguy
My feet are narrow for a big man (6' 1", 235 lbs) so I can't have a big toe box. I don't buy narrow shoes but have to be careful with shoes that have naturally large toe boxes. Nikes seem to fit in that category.I am a big fan of trail runners... but I like me a big toe box. Topo Athletic have become my favorite
AAABatteries
Footballguy
I’d love to do it but just no way to afford it or be away from family.
ETA - to be clear, afford is relative. Mainly mean I can’t take 5-6 months off work.
Rustoleum
Footballguy
Just got back from backpacking in Pisgah National Forest. Great trip and awesome weather. Probably did about 26 miles in all. Going up Black Mountain on day 1 with mountain bikers hurtling down at you all morning was less than awesome.
Might be 3 days of Mountain House type meals, power bars, and jerky talking, but the pizza and wings at Big Mike’s in Brevard are legit.
Anybody got an inexpensive trekking pole recommendation? Snapped one of mine on the last day on an almost-epic stream crossing fail, but I got Philmont and another 6 years of use out of them, so they served me well.
Might be 3 days of Mountain House type meals, power bars, and jerky talking, but the pizza and wings at Big Mike’s in Brevard are legit.
Anybody got an inexpensive trekking pole recommendation? Snapped one of mine on the last day on an almost-epic stream crossing fail, but I got Philmont and another 6 years of use out of them, so they served me well.
mr. furley
Footballguy
call me
AAABatteries
Footballguy
see my post above:
Hiking
@AAABatteries Have you ever hiked in or around Tallulah Falls? We're heading to Tallulah Gorge State Park in a couple of weeks and I'm trying to decide if I want to hike down on the gorge floor. I'm sure the water will be pretty cold at this point. The Mrs already said she won't do it. She...forums.footballguys.com
I used these same poles on the Art Loeb Trail a few years ago. What part of the Pisgah were you in? Black Mountain as in Black Mountain/Mt Mitchell area or Black Mountain as in Black Balsam Knob? The Brevard comment made me think the latter. I am hoping to backpack the Black Mountain Crest Trail later this summer. What route did you guys do?
Was the question about Tallulah Gorge from today? I have hiked down but the gorge floor was closed when I was there. It is a lot of freaking stairs - very different than most hikes and very difficult if you aren’t in stair climbing shape. Looked it up - it’s 1,100 stairs. Good luck.
The Man With No Name
Footballguy
I did this one last year. It's actually more than 1100 I think. Didn't think it was difficult.see my post above:
Hiking
@AAABatteries Have you ever hiked in or around Tallulah Falls? We're heading to Tallulah Gorge State Park in a couple of weeks and I'm trying to decide if I want to hike down on the gorge floor. I'm sure the water will be pretty cold at this point. The Mrs already said she won't do it. She...
I used these same poles on the Art Loeb Trail a few years ago. What part of the Pisgah were you in? Black Mountain as in Black Mountain/Mt Mitchell area or Black Mountain as in Black Balsam Knob? The Brevard comment made me think the latter. I am hoping to backpack the Black Mountain Crest Trail later this summer. What route did you guys do?
Was the question about Tallulah Gorge from today? I have hiked down but the gorge floor was closed when I was there. It is a lot of freaking stairs - very different than most hikes and very difficult if you aren’t in stair climbing shape. Looked it up - it’s 1,100 stairs. Good luck.
Rustoleum
Footballguy
see my post above:
Hiking
@AAABatteries Have you ever hiked in or around Tallulah Falls? We're heading to Tallulah Gorge State Park in a couple of weeks and I'm trying to decide if I want to hike down on the gorge floor. I'm sure the water will be pretty cold at this point. The Mrs already said she won't do it. She...
I used these same poles on the Art Loeb Trail a few years ago. What part of the Pisgah were you in? Black Mountain as in Black Mountain/Mt Mitchell area or Black Mountain as in Black Balsam Knob? The Brevard comment made me think the latter. I am hoping to backpack the Black Mountain Crest Trail later this summer. What route did you guys do?
our Initial route was the Black Mountian to Pink Bedsand Buckwheat Knob route you can find in All Trails.
started basically right there at the trailhead by the Ranger station, up through Presslley Gap and Buckhorn Gap, camped the first night next to a shelter (full up with a youth group) just past Clawhammer road. Continued on that to Barnett Ridge trial and then down to Pink Beds loop. Did 3\4 of the loop then took advantage of running water (and flush toilets!) to eat, replenish then camped not far outside the picnic area.
next day we did the rest of the Pink Beds Loop then back up Barnett Ridge. at this point we deviated from that online route. We ended up cutting across on the Avery Creek trail and coming down that. We “surfaced” along a service road near the riding stables and round the Available sites were all too car accessible and full up. Not wanting to back track, or finish the hike trudging down a service road, we got a ride to he Ranger station from a friendly couple in a pickup truck. Maybe only 5 miles or so at that point.
Got the car, paid $5 each for showers at Davidson creek campground (worth it!) then into town for dinner. Drove back up to Pink Beds and camped just outside picnic area since we knew it was easy access, then broke camp for the 6 hour drive back to Northern Ky.
Worst part of the trip was the signs for Buc-eee’s in Seicerville/Gatlinburg — doesn’t open for 2 more weeks….
Rustoleum
Footballguy
@Bozeman Bruiser
We initially considered Art Loeb but it was looking like we’d need either two vehicles or a shuttle so the loop we did was more practical for the 4 of us.
We initially considered Art Loeb but it was looking like we’d need either two vehicles or a shuttle so the loop we did was more practical for the 4 of us.
Jaysus
Good times!
I always see people recommend the Cascade Mountain ones you can get at sams club or costco. I have never used them though... I have two pairs of Mountainsmith ones that I picked up cheap (I use the carbon ones mostly). A GB has Leki ones that are very nice.
the moops
Footballguy
This been posted yet?
www.instagram.com
@mikelenczewski on Instagram: "It’s me, I’m white people #whitepeoplebelike #hiking #nationalpark #comedy"
2M likes, 17K comments - @mikelenczewski on Instagram: "It’s me, I’m white people #whitepeoplebelike #hiking #nationalpark #comedy"
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The Man With No Name
Footballguy
Alum Cave Trail was my favorite one I did. Didn't do Clingmans Dome but on the same road, farther North on my last day I hiked some of the Appalachian Trail on the TN/NC border - Charlie's Bunion. Liked that one.
AAABatteries
Footballguy
I did this one last year. It's actually more than 1100 I think. Didn't think it was difficult.see my post above:
Hiking
@AAABatteries Have you ever hiked in or around Tallulah Falls? We're heading to Tallulah Gorge State Park in a couple of weeks and I'm trying to decide if I want to hike down on the gorge floor. I'm sure the water will be pretty cold at this point. The Mrs already said she won't do it. She...
I used these same poles on the Art Loeb Trail a few years ago. What part of the Pisgah were you in? Black Mountain as in Black Mountain/Mt Mitchell area or Black Mountain as in Black Balsam Knob? The Brevard comment made me think the latter. I am hoping to backpack the Black Mountain Crest Trail later this summer. What route did you guys do?
Was the question about Tallulah Gorge from today? I have hiked down but the gorge floor was closed when I was there. It is a lot of freaking stairs - very different than most hikes and very difficult if you aren’t in stair climbing shape. Looked it up - it’s 1,100 stairs. Good luck.
It’s relative - I’m used to hiking and did it in bad shape and was fine. 1,100 steps for somebody who maybe isn’t used to it or has heart issues can be a bad situation.
AAABatteries
Footballguy
I have 2 pair of them - they are perfectly fine for most folks. Considering the cheap cost it’s worth picking up a pair and trying them, IMO.
Brony
Footballguy
Clingman's Dome is paved. If you want a climb, check out Chimney Tops Trail. 1,300 feet up and down. Though I wish I knew ahead of time that the top view wasn't good for someone scared of heights. I was like Clark Griswold at the Grand Canyon. Double head nod - "let's go".
In The Zone
Footballguy
I'm glad you had a great time. We're heading to Sevierville on Sunday but not sure if we'll get to do any hiking. The couple we're going with aren't really into it, mainly due to mobility issues. We'll see.
Side note: The Sevierville Buc-ee's opens the day after we arrive and I can't decide if I want to get in that mess or not. May just hit it up on the way out of town.
Terminalxylem
Footballguy
Hiked the Dawson-Pitamaken trail in Glacier NP a couple days ago. 19 mile loop with some side trails to alpine lakes. In a park full of great hikes, this may be the best. Highly recommended.
Senor Schmutzig
Footballguy
Adding this to the 2024 Hiking Wishlist.
How long did it take you? Where did you start from?
Terminalxylem
Footballguy
The trailhead is next to the Two Medicine campground. We went kinda slow, as my friend brought his 10-year-old daughter - the counterclockwise loop took 10 hours. There was a lot of wild berry picking along the way, especially huckleberries, plus pictures and chatting with the smattering of hikers on the trail.
Surprisingly not much wildlife, though we’d already seen bighorn sheep, bald eagles and a bear cub (but no mom) on the drive in.
A shorter, but similarly awesome hike I’d also recommend is the Highline Trail. We’d done it years ago, but my friend wanted to do both (with his daughter!) in one day. My wife declined, and I think that’s the right decision, as the “short” version of Highline is 7+ miles, with a steep side trail that overlooks Grinell Glacier, the poster child for climate change.
Terminalxylem
Footballguy
I’ve got some time to kill in Vegas, and contemplating a day trip to the Grand Canyon. Anyone hiked down to the Colorado? Looks like the S Kaibab trail is about 7 miles to the river.
Is it ridiculous to consider out and back in a day?
Is it ridiculous to consider out and back in a day?
AAABatteries
Footballguy
Leave a week from tomorrow for my next AT segment - we will be doing Fontana Dam in to the Smokies and will pass through Clingsman Dome on I think day 3. 42 miles total this segment and then plan to spend a couple nights in Gatlinburg when we are done.
This is the point where I question my fitness and also put myself in bubble wrap so I don’t get a last minute injury.
Senor Schmutzig
Footballguy
Update?
Did you make it back?
I'm going to try and plan a trip up that way in September/October with the two guys that I went on the Taos trip last year. Will look to rent an Air BnB/Cottage on the TN or NC side and start mapping out some hikes to look at. Will probably fly into Atlanta and drive north. Or maybe CLT or Asheville and head north. Or Nashville and go east. LOL.
Whatever, we'll figure out the high level stuff....
parasaurolophus
Footballguy
Anybody here hiking in new balance fresh foam hierro 8s? Been loyal to this shoe for most versions since they were called 980s. The 8s are the most comfy at first fit, but they changed the grip on the bottom a great deal.
I am quite paranoid since my break about grip on the bottom of shoes. Anybody have anything to say about them? I know it is a shot in the dark.
I am quite paranoid since my break about grip on the bottom of shoes. Anybody have anything to say about them? I know it is a shot in the dark.
AAABatteries
Footballguy
Sorry, just now seeing this. Yep, we survived
We had planned to complete the remainder of the Smokies but didn’t work out. Definitely plan to finish the last 30 or so miles this Fall. After that we aren’t sure what’s next - segments get harder to do the farther out you go. May need to take 7-10 days for the ones north of the Smokies.
I will say the section south and north of Clingsman has been the most beautiful so far.
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