Re: [at-l] Re: OB Trip report 4 & SMNP Shelter Question

["W F Thorneloe, MD" <thornel@attglobal.net>]

Last week, the ranger indicated there were some general ideas of  numbers 
of through hikers expected as well as park visitors. The idea  is that 
until the shelter fills, all are supposed to use the shelter.  Thru hikers 
have the option to camp once the shelter is full.

The way it works, though, unless the weather is particularly bad, the thru 
hikers camp outside the shelter and the visitors deal with mice. They seem 
very happy with the chain and gates, not realizing they are locking 
themselves in with mice and other hazards. The Ridgerunner and rangers 
expect this and do not enforce the full shelter rule unless
there are specific problems.

OrangeBug
Atlanta, GA


>--- WHHAWKINS@aol.com wrote:
>
> > At most shelters along the AT. If your the first person at the
> > shelter you
> > get a space.
> > In the GSMNP this is not the case. If the shelter holds 12 people and
> > 12 show
> > up with reservations at that shelter, for that night. They get the
> > spaces.
> >
> > There are no longer any spaces set aside for thru-hikers. If they
> > want a
> > space, they will have to make a reservation for one.

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