#2 – Fox’s AT Thru Hike – Day 90

So my triple zero is almost over. Have I rested? Unfortunately, no. And I really don’t want to make a whole post with the litany of reasons why I didn’t rest. So here are some tips for hiking the AT.

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When leaving the trail, stick a stick firmly into the ground and keep it in sight. This will help prevent you from getting sidetracked. Yes, it means they can possibly see you from the trail. Squat behind a log or rock. Speaking of…

Fallen logs and stumps often have several inches of debris around them. It makes digging a six-inch hole much easier. Stump holes can provide a pre-dug hole, but be careful with them.

Let me introduce you to the toilet paper tree, which grows throughout most of the AT. Also known as striped maple, these leaves are ideal for cleaning. They are resistant, but flexible. They grow more than a span, for good protection of the hands. If you are low on TP, this is your tree.

If necessary, go before any big climbs or descents. Do it now as it is harder to find good spots uphill and downhill. This can really be generalized to going to the first good place you see.

Always clean with the same hand and never use that hand to eat. Yes, wash your hands, but washing here is not always the ideal solution. Then do this too.

If you can’t afford a single roll of toilet paper, buy one of those little cube-shaped nasal tissue boxes. It works just as well and usually costs less than a full TP package. Also, don’t steal TP.

Advice you didn’t ask for, but probably haven’t heard yet. I hope they help!

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