Off Topix Takes A HIKE!

[DrLeftover]

Given the success of Off Topix's Cruise:

http://offtopix.com/showthread.php?tid=19870&highlight=cruise

We are now planning for a walking holiday!

The Appalachian Trail is a 2,184 mile long public footpath that traverses the scenic, wooded, pastoral, wild, and culturally resonant lands of the Appalachian Mountains.

http://www.nps.gov/appa/index.htm


Shall we start in the South and go North?

 

[DrLeftover]

So....

Who's in?

 

[DrLeftover]

A couple of helpful pages:

Start planning your through-hike of the Appalachian Trail now

http://bangordailynews.com/2011/02/25/outdoors/start-planning-your-through-hike-of-the-appalachian-trail-now/

-and-

Hiking the Appalachian Trail can be a great adventure, and part of the appeal is getting away from civilization and the comforts, security and predictability of home. In unfamiliar settings where unpredictable weather, unfamiliar terrain, and the unexpected are the rule, planning and preparation are keys to an enjoyable and safe hike.

To download the guide, “Step by Step: An Introduction to Walking the Appalachian Trail,”... (link to PDF on below page)

http://www.appalachiantrail.org/hiking/hiking-basics

 

[Jazzy]

I think we better start North and then head South:

Stomach Virus Hits Appalachian Trail near Hot Springs, NC
Cases of Norovirus have been confirmed along the A.T. from Hot Springs, NC, north to the TN-VA border, causing severe stomach issues for those infected. Take precautions when hiking in this area.

 

[DrLeftover]

Believe it or not, that was the news story I saw this morning that gave me the idea.

You can get simple and easy solutions to that problem, including the old standbys of chlorine and iodine:

http://www.backpacker.com/march-2011-8-ways-to-treat-water/gear/15287

 

[Jazzy]

How are we all going to get there? I think bus would be our best bet. In that case, we need to start North.

What do you think?

 

[DrLeftover]

OK. We'll do it your way.

The Appalachian Trail in Maine is a challenging 281 miles, perhaps some of the most difficult sections of the AT.

http://www.visitmaine.com/attractions/state_national_parks/appalachian_trail/

http://www.newenglandwaterfalls.com/waterfall.php?name=Gulf%20Hagas

“The Grand Canyon of Maine” is a popular description of Gulf Hagas. With a plethora of spectacular waterfalls, swimming holes, and chutes, along with astonishing wildlife, this gorge-ous gorge has plenty to see and enjoy, and offers terrific hiking trails. An 8-mile loop takes you along the rim of the 400-foot deep gorge, which cuts through the west branch of the Pleasant River. The views into the slate canyon from atop the sheer cliffs of Gulf Hagas are awe-inspiring.

http://www.visitmaine.com

 

[DrLeftover]

just think of the three and four star accommodations we'll all get to enjoy

related story:
http://www.nationalparkstraveler.com/2013/04/america%E2%80%99s-premier-hut-system-125-years-old%E2%80%94-classic-appalachian-trail-adventure23136

 

[Jazzy]

Look! Nebulous has a head start on us!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=9bU-Xg0hdLE

 

[Evil Eye]

Interesting, I have no desire to walk 2000 miles, but a little walking here and there seems worthwhile judging by those pictures.

 

[Frost]

Good luck. I've always wanted to do the Appalachian Trail but I think I'm going to wait another decade at the least. My life is not stable enough right now at 25 to support me being out of work for long enough to hike that (+ the expenses involved!).

 

[Nebulous's iconNebulous]

Uh... I'll go but Im going to take one of these:

 

[Jazzy]

Excuse me, Nebulous, this is a hiking trip not a biking trip! Plus do you think there are gas stations on this trail?

 

[Nebulous's iconNebulous]

It'll have a trailer connected filled with full gas cans.

Hope I don't accidentally

 

[DrLeftover]

Well... if he really wants to BIKE.....

Location and Length
When completed, the 150-mile Great Allegheny Passage will connect with the 184.5-mile C&O Canal Towpath at Cumberland, Maryland to create a 334.5-mile traffic and motorized vehicle-free route between Pittsburgh and Washington, DC. The Montour Branch will, when completed, connect McKeesport to the Pittsburgh International Airport and Coraopolis.

Trail Grade and Surface
The trail has a packed crushed limestone surface for a smooth ride. Built mainly on abandoned rail beds, the trail is nearly level with the average grade of less than 1%. The steepest eastbound grade - 0.8% - is from Harnedsville to Markleton and Garrett to Deal. The steepest westbound grade is from Cumberland to Deal at 1.75%. Near the Big Savage Tunnel, the trail crosses the Eastern Continental Divide. From that point going east, the trail drops 1,754 feet in 24 miles to reach Cumberland and, going west, it drops 1,664 feet in 126 miles to reach Pittsburgh.

From Cumberland to Washington, DC, you drop 625 feet to sea level on the C&O Canal towpath. The towpath is overall much less improved than the GAP, as it was built for mules and not railroads. Be prepared for ruts, tree roots, mud and mosquitos.

http://www.greatalleghenypassage.org/

and the C&O

184.5 Miles of Adventure!

Preserving America's early transportation history, the C&O Canal began as a dream of passage to Western wealth. Operating for nearly 100 years the canal was a lifeline for communities along the Potomac River as coal, lumber and agricultural products floated down the waterway to market. Today it endures as a pathway for discovering historical, natural and recreational treasures!

http://www.nps.gov/choh/index.htm

 

[DrLeftover]

And, of course, on the C&O canal path you get to go through this:

Mile 155.2 - The tunnel is 3,118 feet long and you can just barely see the light at the other end. I think it's kind of spooky, especially in the middle where it's dark. And cold. And wet. There is a (steep) hiking trail around out if you don't like dark and wet and creepy places.

http://canal.mcmullans.org/paw_paw_tunnel.htm