[at-l] You guys are so wonderful.......

[artduck@yahoo.com (Carol Benel)]

Joni,
I was sixteen when I first hiked the AT.  Times were
much different then.  There is something I want you to
seriously consider, especially if you are really
young, don't hike alone, find a partner.  Also make
sure you 'check in' along the way with someone,
develop a support team so to speak along the way. 
Like in life, 99% of the people you meet are really
great but you still have to prepare for those 1%.  
Most people who hike the AT have nothing worse than
blisters and the unexpected downpour to complain
about. I had a friend who was killed in Virginia while
hiking the AT.  She was a very experienced hiker.  I
never hike alone for more than a day hike any more and
I make sure someone knows where I am hiking and check
in if I am gone for more than a weekend.  I don't want
to discourage or unduly frighten you.  I have had
nothing but great experiences back packing and I am
sure you will too.
Carol  
--- Joni Haas <LaRue816@excite.com> wrote:
>  You know those wonderful moments in life when
> everything just comes
> together in your mind,I guess you could call them
> moments of clarity? Well,
> I guess thats what I had. Yesterday, the idea of a
> thru hike on the
> Appalachian trail was just this awesome idea, a pipe
> dream of sorts. But you
> guys are so encouraging, especially Lamar, and so
> inspiring, I just decided
> that this is no longer an idea for me, its something
> I have to do. You know
> that old quote about it being the things in life you
> dont do that you will
> always regret? I think I would regret not atleast
> giving this my best
> attempt. Your advice and answers to my questions
> were so appreciated. And
> yes, datto, I have lots more questions. Where are
> the best places to diverge
> from the trail/side trips not to be missed? Is it
> best to stay in shelters
> or set up camp most nights? How much will I spend on
> gear? Other than good
> boots, what else is absolutely essential? What
> important questions am I not
> asking? Everyone, Paul, orange Bug, carol, lamar,
> and everyone who answered
> me, you were such a big help. I feel so uneducated.
> (And orange bug, by
> uneducated, I mean realllly uneducated) I am young
> and healthy, But besides
> being from Alaska and knowing what its like to camp
> and hike in the cold
> country on day hikes, I know very little. I will
> check out all the sites you
> guys mentioned. Thanks so much. Love, Joni
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
>
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