Pocketair

“Coming from Minnesota, anything in a warmer climate sounds better. So, South Carolina is definatly a possibility.”

“Pocketair - From where in MN?”

“Conflict! Most CG's in GSMNP open on 3-14-03. I plan to be at Cataloochee CG that day and weekend. Will do some dayhiking during the weekend and then start some bp'ing to get rid of the winter fat.”

“NS, I'll be at Smokemont with my scouts on the 15th. On the 16th half of us will will start a loop at the tunnel on the road to nowhere. The rest will hike out of Smokemont and do some trail maintenance.”

“The other day I saw an old article (2 yrs.) that confirmed that their work on the Lakeshore Trail was to improve it as a hiking and horse trail.

Also, they are trying to make a low elevation trail across the Park as an alternative to the AT.”

“Where and when will you exit from the loop? And from Smokemont? Maybe I'll be able to exchange greetings with you.

My bp'ing plans are not firm, but it likely I will start on Noland Creek or Deep Creek. I may do both before moving on to the Abrams Creek area. Later, if my legs feel up to it, I am considering starting a loop at Smokemont:
CS#50, 48, 47, 44, Laurel Gap Shelter, 38, Big Creek CG(or Mtn. Mama's), 37, Cosby Knob Sh., Tricorner Knob Sh., Pecks Corner Sh., 48, 50.”

“but it likely = but it is likely that”

“We have two groups going but the whole gang will be at Smokemont the evening of the 15th.

The first group will most likely be in the Smokemont area as they will be basecamping out of #50 to do some much needed trail and campsite work in that area.

My group will begin (16th) and end (22nd) our loop at the tunnel on the road to nowhere. Just so you know we will be camping at #75 on the 16th and #74 on the 21st.”

“Thanks. Maybe I'll get to see you.

FYI, although you probably know, CS#75 and 74 each have a picnic table. One of the benches was broken on the table at 75 last fall.”

“Cool, I knew about the table at 74 but thanks for the heads up on the busted one at 75.

Oh, Treebait and the baby might be in the Smokies at the same time. She's not sure yet.”

“Great! If I find a chance, I'll swing over to Smokemont and look for them.”