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[at-l] 98 Thruhikers Get together
For those who have an interest in a 98 Thruhikers Get together -
I was kinda waiting for atml to get back on line, but I'll put this out
again when that happens. In the meantime, I'll put it on at-l and send
it to those who have already expressed an interest.
The way it's shaped up is that we'll do it on the Jan 31 - Feb 1
weekend. The place is the Ironmaster Mansion Hostel at Pine Grove
Furnace State Park in Pennsylvania. It's located about 15 miles west
of Gettysburg on Rt 30 and then 20 miles north from Caledonia State
Park. The Trail goes through both Caledonia and Pine Grove Furnace
State Parks, and right in front of the hostel. We'll get you detailed
directions if you need them - just let us know.
Tom and Maria Ha are the hostel managers and have offered to cut
people a deal on overnights for this event. They've offered $10/night
instead of the usual $12, plus they'd stay open during the days to
accomodate everyone who wants to hang out and talk. They also have a hot
tub, but would have to charge extra ($3/person/hour) for it (seats 5).
They have 46 beds, and can make semi-private arrangements for couples.
There are 2 semi-private rooms that definitely need reservations. They'd
really appreciate it if everyone made reservations. It would make it
easier for them to plan. It's a terrific place - how often do you get
the chance to stay in a 170 year old mansion - with hot tub? To make
reservations, call Tom/Maria Ha at 717-486-7575. You can also call them
if you need detailed directions or other information.
The plan is that there really isn't any set program or plan. We'll
bring some AT slides, pictures and books, some food, and our bodies and
memories of the AT. The idea is to talk - and talk - and talk - on
Friday night and Saturday and then, for those who want to go, a hike on
Sunday. Nothing fancy or formal, just a chance to meet a few friends.
We had some interest from as far away as Alabama and Michigan, but I'm
gonna let those people decide whether this would be worth the trip.
While you'd certainly be welcome, it might be better to see if you could
get some people together in your area. I'm sure there are thruhikers
who'd be willing to talk Trail with you and show you their slides or
pictures.
You might want to bring food - the nearest restaurant is a long way from
the hostel, but there is a BIG kitchen. When we get closer to the end of
the month, we can maybe talk about doing a group meal. Bring lots of
snacks too - you'd be surprised how hungry you can get from "just
talking".
Last year some people brought their packs - to weigh and talk about
(we'll bring some scales). They also brought some questions - and we
didn't have answers to match all their questions. But we sure did talk a
lot.
Which brings up an important point - one thing we definitely need is
some other thruhikers. This is for the 98 thruhikers. We're just there
because we love talking about thruhiking and hangin out with other
hikers. That's why we always go to the ALDHA Gathering in October. Other
thruhikers have other answers -- and their answers might fit better than
ours. So -- how about some volunteers??
One other thing, we're not interested in excluding anyone, so if you're
a 1999 or 2000 - or 2017 - prospective thruhiker - you're welcome.
OK - questions, comments, suggestions will be happily accepted. And
we'll get back to you later - hopefully with more details.
Walk softly,
Jim & Ginny
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