">
Walkin’ Back to Georgia
“I’m walking back to Georgia; And I hope she will take me back; Nothing in my pockets; And all I own is upon my back” Jim Croce
I have always looked forward to an upcoming section hike once I have decided where and set the date. But this time is a little different. I almost feel the anticipation and anxiety that I have read from many aspiring thru hikers as they get closer to the date of beginning at Springer Mountain. While I am, and will still be after this hike, a section hiker, I almost feel like I am starting a thru hike. I have read many journal entries over the years of starting at the arch in Amilacola State Park and hiking the Approach Trail; I have no illusions those steps will be difficult. Especially for me with active arthritis, bursitis, and sciatic pain in both hips. I’ve done some rough sections in Virginia and Pennsylvania. But I know North Georgia has its own unique challenges, not the least of which will be Blood Mountain. I have “bail out” plans, but am excited to get to my planned end point at Unicoi Gap. I originally expected to end this section at Neel Gap, but Nightingale encouraged me to add on some miles to make the trip even more worthwhile. If I am honest, part of my confidence on this section stems from knowing that Nightingale will meet me half-way for a resupply and is close by should I need to stop earlier than planned.
My backpack is packed and ready; base weight without food/water = 21lbs. This is my usual section hiking base weight; so, I am confident I can carry it with no trouble after adding food and water. I am an experienced backpacker, but also wise enough to realize that I really do not know what to expect in this section. You just have to experience it yourself for the first time. I also know I can jettison some of my “luxuries” half-way if I need to when I meet up with Nightingale. I am very much looking forward to learning new lessons and incorporating them into my section hiking kit bag and strategy. I am also excited to get a more genuine feel for thru hiking as I will start in peak season and be part of the so-called bubble.
hiking adventures
occasionally dull – often epic
the journey begins
This website contains affiliate links, which means The Trek may receive a percentage of any product or service you purchase using the links in the articles or advertisements. The buyer pays the same price as they would otherwise, and your purchase helps to support The Trek's ongoing goal to serve you quality backpacking advice and information. Thanks for your support!
To learn more, please visit the About This Site page.
Comments 6
Oh goody, Quiet Man is back! Looking forward to reading about your journey. Kopiko cap? Oh my, consider the ingredient list… not ideal for your “thritis’s”;
inflammatory. I’ve recently been researching due to some hand pain. Happy healthy trails, perfect weather!
Hey, Holly, how have you been? Good to read you! Hmmm…bad ingredients list…that is probably true for everything in my food bag! 😂
Here we go!! You’ll have a blast. Stay warm!
Travel light, freeze at night. This old soldier always stays warm. Thanks for checking in!
I enjoyed following you last year- glad you and Nightingale are back.
Thanks, Jennifer! Nightingale is upping her trail magic game and is going to pack along some things to hand out while she waits to resupply me …