I was planning a 2016 NOBO hike and really wanted to end my victorious hike on Katahdin at the end of my hike; HOWEVER, the reality of the crowded situation hit me a couple of days ago when I watched my first Appalachian Trail You Tube video of the beginning of someone's Springer to Katahdin Spring-start hike. Whoa! The introvert in me went into convulsions, spasms, rigors, etc., and I immediately began to reconsider. I know with 'the movie' coming out, the crowds will be worse in 2016.
I was planning to enjoy a little bit of socializing on the trail, but I know I will be a basket case with the group-think party atmosphere of NOBO Spring-starting Hikers. NO OFFENSE to those people. Everyone is different, and that is okay. It's just not for me. I know only an introvert could understand this. I just know I'll be miserable with the crowds. Though I'd like plenty of time to contemplate the solitude of nature, I don't want to be totally alone, either.
I'm considering some kind of alternative hike. I'm really concerned about water crossings. I'm of a woman of small stature, and this is one of my major concerns. I can push myself through physical challenges, but high, fast water crossings are something you can't push through with sheer grit if you are small.
Though I'm working on hiking around home to get into shape, I'm really an inexperienced hiker, and have just started acquiring my gear. My second choice would be SOBO from Katahdin, but because of the above things, I'm thinking I should consider something else. Are there any hikers who successfully did SOBO as inexperienced hikers?
I haven't seen any suggestions for starting at mid-point of the trail, hiking SOUTH, then hiking mid-point to Katahdin. Is this a possibility? I'm guessing the time table would not work out (or would be rushed?) to get to Katahdin before Oct. 15. If it IS a possibility, what would be the optimum time to do so weather-wise? I'm also concerned about the logistics and expense of doing alternative hikes, mainly travel to the next starting point.
I'm not under any time constraints. I can leave at any time. Keeping the hike frugal is a concern.
I'm open to any suggestions or opinions, links or websites.
Thanks in Advance,
Arkansas Traveler