Fox’s AT Thru Hike – Day 1

The nerves are finally starting to get to me today, which manifests itself in non-stop pacing. My uncle made an amazing breakfast of pancakes and eggs and then gave me shrimp and grits at the Amicalola Hostel. Definitely spoiled.

We stopped for AT Base Camp at the Amicalola State Park visitor center. The staff was pleasant and the training was brief and informative. They have a pretty good setup actually.

13:00: I took pictures and, with the tag in the bag, I began to climb the 600 meter stairs. Honestly, this is the most difficult part of the approach path. I met John Boy, another nobo, halfway to the top and then Springer.

The access trail itself has many cruising sections. There is also a lot of nature to appreciate. The AT gets a lot of criticism for not having a parade of long views from the high mountains. While it is true, it ignores the small works of art that nature leaves along each path. It also ignores that there really are mountain views. Usually through a gap between trees on an outcrop, but they do exist.

It is true that there are fewer views when it is covered in fog and clouds.

I reached the end of the fog-shrouded Springer Appalachian Trail. The rain held off until my tent was up at Springer Mountain Shelter and I set up at dusk.

• Breakfast: pancakes and eggs.
• Lunch: Shrimp and Grits
• Dinner: Walnuts
• Appetizers: Clif Bar, stroopwafel
• Known today: John Boy
• Days without ramen bomb: 1

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