So I had plans to go from Springer to Winding Gap the beginning of September. I started Friday the 28th and got to Hawk. At the shelter, I was the only one there. I however woke up to find someone else had arrived after I had holed up in my hammock. That was a great relief. The next day I ended at Gooch. Holed up in my hammock, and awoke to find myself still alone. While I love hiking alone, I had assumed there would at least be a few other people in the shelter areas overnight. I thought I would give it one more try and was planning on camping at Woods Hole. I made it to Woods Hole but the guy I ran into along the way that was also planning to camp there changed his mind and decided to take Freeman down to Neels Gap. So the fear of being alone and it being so windy and chilly convinced me to follow. Got to Mountain Crossings and the hostel was closed. So I gave up and called someone to come get me. Of course now I regret it. I am planning to day hike the Blood Mountain part I missed but then want to try to finish Neels to Winding Gap. My questions are 1. What would be the best time to do this part where it's not extremely crowded but I am not the only one out there and 2.) how does one get over the fear of being out their totally and completely alone. It's just way to hard to convince anyone to go with me and the groups that I have seen that do these hikes are either large or have so many rules (like experienced backpackers only). That was my first time and I think I did pretty well but still wouldn't consider myself experienced.
Any advice or information would be greatly appreciated.