Approach Trail

[Coffeeboy09]

Hey all, as some of you know, I'll be hiking the first 30 or so miles of the Appalachian trail, and I know the first part of this is known as the Approach Trail.

I would like any and all info I can get. I've gotten some really good info and advice from BDavison already, but more never hurt!

My MAIN question is, will I need boots? I'm going in December and I don't know if it snows there during that time or not, and if so, how much? Could I get by with trail running shoes without getting frostbite?

Also, are we allowed to build a small campfire, or are there burn bans? If there are, I presume I'd need a pepsi can stove.

[bdavison]

Snow is a definate possibility. Id recommend boots on the chance that you do hit snow. Its gonna be cold regardless, so trail runners probably wouldnt be the best idea just from the cold alone.

As far as campfires, it depends. You'll have to check with the folks at amicalola, they can let you know if there is an active fire ban. If there isnt a fire ban, there are only a few places for a campfire. Mainly at the shelters. There are a couple of places on the trail around three forks that have places for fire. And there is one right before the wood bridge before you cross the dirt road on your way to hawk mtn.

Id recommend a pepsi can stove regardless, just because you can use them pretty much anywhere for heating up a quick meal. Also if it snows...there wont be much dry firewood around for cooking with.

After you cross the gravel parking lot at the base of springer mtn, the trail will split. To the left is the AT, and it goes steeply downhill, and along a creek. If you go straight it bypasses the AT, and you travel along the benton mckaye till it rejoins with the AT.

Youll have to look at the weather, but the AT is much more fun than the Benton bypass. Just be aware that in bad weather or snow, the AT section can get slick and muddy....another reason for boots.

[bdavison]

Also, skip the first shelter at black gap, and stay the night on top of springer instead. Its not that much further, and the springer campsite/shelter is much nicer.

Dont forget to check out the falls at three forks. Its a MUST see. Its also a good place to refill on water.

[Coffeeboy09]

Also, this is probably a stupid question, but do you think bug repellent would really be necessary, being as it's winter?

I've never been up there, so idk how the mosquitoes and ticks are during the winter...

[bdavison]

Nah, you wont need the bug repellant....no bugs this time of year.