Re: [at-l] AT; The First Fifty Miles

["W F Thorneloe, MD (Domain will change soon to attglobal.net)" <thornel@ibm.net>]

Have many concerns, but water is difficult. There is no water at Springer. 
You will find water at 3 Forks and a few places before Hemphill Gap. There 
is a long 10-12 miles waterless region until Justus Creek. North Georgia is 
dry as can be, and is a fire hazard.

Given your early stages of hiking and location. You might want to consider 
moving your hike to North Carolina and the Standing Indian area. There are 
many side trails, much more water, and a loop that can help you bail out if 
you get into trouble. A 50 mile week is a very good plan as you describe 
yourself. You can easily start up in Deep Gap and move north toward 
Franklin and Wesser.

Also, find out if you have any friends who are campers/hikers also. You are 
likely to find gear that is lighter. A 50 pound pack is likely to sap any 
fun out of this, and likely to result in about 20 pounds of litter of gear 
along the path. (We've all been there and done that).

OrangeBug
Altanta, GA

At 08:16 AM 10/27/1999 -0400, JoelShiver@aol.com wrote:
>My concern is water.  Is there someplace which tells me where to find water
>along this section of trail at this dry time of year?  I expect this has been
>stated on at-l a time or two, but I can't find it.

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