my venture crew is going to the appalach ia trail

“okay this is my first time using theboard i am a eaglescout venture scout and my crew is going to the appalachian trail and was wandering if there were any tips we might get now we are from florida so we are not use to the elevation how can we get use to this also if you could provide some gear or clothing tips cause i know it gets cold up in the montans there and was wandering what would be good for comfertable light and well insulated materials of clothing that are also on the inexpencive side so if you could let me know thanks alot”

“Dang! America's schools are going down the tubes. Stop wandering so much and hit the bukes!!!”

“That's a helluva runon sentence boy. When are you going? What part/ where on the trail will you be? These are very important factors. By the bye; where in Fla.?”

“Your name is bubba?
You actually go by that?”

“sniff sniff...


sniff sniff sniff.....


Hmmmmm....methinks I smell.....




TROLLL!!!!!!!!


Just don't feed it y'all.....”

“Bit, methinks yer sniffer has said a snootful!”

“The Appalachian Trail Conference website can hook you up to all the info you want.

suggest you start with day hikes / overniters untill you get the experiance you need”

“Get a copy of "Backpacking Merit Badge." Really good book.”

“we are going to an area in the north side of north carolina. the guide who sets up the trail in that area said we go through the fontana dam area and end up at nantahala outdoor center. i live in palm bay florida. and yes i do go by bubba.”

“But you weren't an eagle scout?”

“Don't mind the regulars, they don't bite........much.

Fontana to Wesser on the AT? Why in god's name do you need a guide? Just drop a car at either end and hike. Oh well, it's your money.

Summer trip aye?
Elevation will not be an issue. Climbing and descending will. Hiking in the mountains is completely different than the flats so do a lot of walking or running before you go to get your cardiovascular system stronger. Take your first day slow. Five miles will be plenty.

It won't be cold. At worst it will be cool at night. A 35 degree bag will be plenty for you (almost overkill) Your rain jacket or a long sleeved shirt should be enough to keep you warm at night if you even need it. Maybe toss in a pair of lite long pants if you are thin blooded. Leave the cotton at home and bring synthetic clothing only.

I take my troop up there every March. You will love it.”

“Oh yeah, I'm in Jacksonville, Fl.
troop623.com”

“... and watch out for bears! They're everywhere in that section. A lot of people will tell you not too worry about them but they're worse than Yosemite bears. Don't forget to bring a canned ham.”

“thanks for all the suggestions. and yes im an eagle scout i got it right before i turned 18 a few months ago. also we are only taking a few guys from my venture crew if any of yall are 21 and under male or female it doesnt matter try and join a crew they are awsome to be in. not just because its coed.”

“Yo Bubba, when is the trip?”

“The bears around the section your gonna be on (oustside of the GSMNP) get hunted. i.e. if your smart with your food, (hang it up and don't cook in camp) you likely won't see one unless the wind is loud and your being sneaky.”