I think the CDT takes it hands down. Every type of climate and terrain in the US is on this trail. At least in New Mexico, there is very little traffic on the trail, even on Holiday weekends. I particularly like the fact that it goes from Mexico to Canada. You can Start the trip with a hearty Huevos Rancheros in old Mexico, and finish it with a Labatt’s and a steak in Canada.
I love to go as light as I can, but I also like to keep it light on the wallet. A plastic pop bottle works better (for me) than any other water container, and I just found a 1 ounce LED light for $2 at the drugstore. Any other lightweight and ultra-cheap winners out there?
Your best bet is to start at Bad Creek and hike to Whitewater Falls, or do the reverse. It’s much easier to shuttle cars between these destinations and much better suited for a day hike – a few hours roughly.
The last time I was at Linville Gorge, I couldn’t believe all the trash people left behind in the firepits, campsites, etc. Is this still a problem here? It really ruined the experience for me.
Just finished the book last month. A great read. Can’t believe it took me two years to get to it.
Merrell, Vasque, Asolo are all good brands and stand behind their boots.
Hey, how about some love for the Chilkoot Trail here? Where else can you hike in two country’s, one state/two provinces, and walk in the footsteps of Jack London and thousands of Stampeders aiming for the Klondike gold fields? Did I mention the scenery? Outstanding!
I’m with the Flower on this one. Too many rules and too many people in the Smokies. Nantahala or Pisgah NF are much better in my opinion.
I’ve hiked the section around Shining Rock. There is a spring in the area that is pretty reliable. Don’t remember much water across Tenant Mountain or Investor Gap. Is this part of the Mountains-To-Sea Trail? If so, I’d get the guidebook for it. I’ve seen it in some outdoor stores in NC, but don’t own it myself.
Bonus to Wingfoot – he includes all the trail mileage which basically makes the AT Data Book unnecessary. Call it a one stop shop.
While we are on the subject …. I plan to use the BMT and AT to do the GA loop but lack info on the Duncan Ridge. Can anyone help? Thanks. I plan to hike it in late May 2007 (Memorial Day weekend) and take a week off work with a co-worker.
At the risk of being harrassed on this one …. my IPOD. I like to hike solo, jam a little while on the trail, and drowned out the animal noises as I fall asleep at night.
Can you take XM or Sirrus satellite radio on the trail? How does power work? How about reception.
Saw your photos on the Chilkoot. Planning a trip in July 07. More snow than I expected. Need crampons for this? Ice axe?? Appreciate the feedback.
I went 5 days once in the backcountry. I passed a family on the trail and one of the kids said to the other, “Knock knock.” “Who’s There?”, was the reply. “That Man”. “That man who?” “That man stinks.”