Friday, December 16, 2011

Started Picking Out Equipment

I have started picking out equipment. I wanted my hiking shoes and pack early to prepare and take short hiking trips now. I was able to find comfortable hiking shoes by Merrell and a Gregory Diva 60 pack. I also picked up a sleeping bag. Now I am looking at my tent and water storage and filter equipment, though the solar charging equipment at Eastern Mountain Sports was on sale....
The decision to thru-hike this April is under review and may only be a section hike this April as my husband is concerned about our finances. I want to go and see how far I can get. I am also hoping our tax return is able to allow me to thru-hike.

Sunday, December 11, 2011

I have set up mobile posting to allow me to post from the trail. This is a test of that system.

Further Research reveals...

Upon further investigation I have discovered I will be working (assuming I still have this job) the nights of the 15th and 16th of April. Looks like the best plan would be to leave the 17th and do a day hike down from Springer Mountain to the first road crossing, then spend the night and leave well rested on the 18th from there.

I have put in to have off through the 14th of May. If anything should happen then I will still have my job to return to, or I could do great and simply have my husband submit my notice. I am trying to prepare for either outcome but hope for a thru-hike to Maine.

I am hoping to make a trip to an outfitter this week to look at options for equipment. Right now I want to get a pack and footwear, specifically.

Friday, December 9, 2011

I have decided.....I am going to hike the Appalachian Trail north... as far as I can go....

I will be hiking north from Springer Mountain, GA on the Appalachian Trail this April if all goes well. The question is "Will I make it to Maine?"

For those who know me this may seem out of the blue. Just trust that I have my reasons for wanting to go and I can't begin to list them all here. There are things I must get done before then, both to put my life in order and to prepare. I will have to finish spring classes (they end April 15th, but I may be able to sneak away slightly earlier. I will need to finalize my sons plans for my absence. Oh, and I will need to make sure that we have enough money in the bank to keep us going until I return (my husband will be working and will be responsible for the bills in my absence).

I have already begun to prepare. I am going over backpacking books and other hiker's stores, try to determine what items I will need and what I can live with out. I have created a basic list I will adjust over the next 4 months. I will need:

  • a pack
  • a tent or tarp
  • a sleeping bag
  • a sleeping pad
  • a stove and fuel
  • a pot
  • a mug
  • a spork
  • water storage
  • a water filter
  • shoes/boots
  • clothing - yet to be determined
  • trekking poles
  • head lamp
  • etc.........
Needless to say I need to be prepared, but pack light. I have my work cut out for me. Oh if anyone has recommendations please feel free to comment.