10 things that surprised me during my first stay at AT

As I finish up the miles in Georgia, I want to recap the parts of my hike that were unexpected. Hopefully this helps other hikers prepare for their trips.

1. Undulating terrain

The trail is much more rolling and less hilly than I expected. In the northeast, hikes typically start out flat before a long, steep climb to the top. Georgia felt completely different: few steep sections, and the trail mostly meandered along ridges. It’s been easy to keep the momentum going through the ups and downs.

2. People on the road

Starting my hike right in the heart of Bubble, I knew the trail would feel crowded at times. What I didn’t know was that I was also starting the tour over spring break here in Georgia. The trail, shelters, and campsites were packed with hikers, section hikers, and vacationing families, especially south of Neel Gap. It’s been fun watching people enjoy the trail, but I’m also excited to have a little more solitude.

3. Trail conditions

The smoothness of the trail in Georgia has been a pleasure. Walking in the shade of rhododendrons on soft soil and leaf litter is common, and I think I only encountered one purge in the entire state. If that’s not luxury, I’m not sure what is.

4. Trail maintenance

Despite heavy use, the trail has been impressively clean. Other than a few high traffic areas like Blood Mountain, I’ve seen very little trash or damage. Most of the trail still looks wild and well maintained.

5. Climate

Knock on wood, but I still haven’t felt a drop of rain. I know the AT has a reputation for being wet and I’m sure my time is coming, but so far it’s been all sunshine. It has also been surprisingly warm, even at night in my hammock. I’ve already sent home my fleece and an extra pair of socks.

6. Appetite

I knew people tend to overpack food at first, but I didn’t expect my first resupply to last until Dick’s Gap (six days). Between the effort and constant stimulation, my appetite has decreased and I have had to remember to eat. Apparently this is quite common from the beginning.

7. Epic views

Starting in early April means I’ll hit the trail before the trees bloom. This provides views throughout the day when there would otherwise be none. It also means I’m getting a lot more sun than expected and my skin is paying the price. Still, I’m trying to savor the opening before getting trapped in the Green Tunnel.

8. Magic trail

I’ve heard of the kindness hikers receive from strangers, but Southern hospitality still amazes me. I’m lucky to have received three rounds of trail magic while on the trail. While off the trail in Hiawassee, I also met some trail angels. The first one helped me when I arrived at the post office after closing. She offered to wash and ship my extra layers to my house. I met another lovely lady at the laundromat and she was fascinated by my trip. She gave my friends and I $40 per pizza. How kind!

9. Southern Forests

Obviously, I’m hiking in the south, but it didn’t occur to me that the flora and fauna might differ from what I’m used to. Between the rhododendron, the magnolias and the trillium, there has been a completely new landscape. I’m excited to see it change as I continue to move north.

10. Friendships

I’m told friendships form quickly on the AT, but I didn’t expect to find such a great group for Day 3. Everyone I’ve met has been friendly, outgoing, and kind. I’ve been laughing more than I have in a long time and I’m excited to watch these friendships grow and make new ones along the way.

Rose, Thorn, Bud

Pink

We took a day off and spent a lot of time relaxing between miles. Another group started calling us “the Sunbeds.”

Thorn

I tried hanging my food from a bear wire, but my line got tangled with another one and I had to abandon it.

Outbreak

I can’t wait to get into the Smokies!

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