Hey guys,
So I decided to do a winter hike because January to May is my last open slot for the foreseeable future and I'm taking it because I've always wanted to do the AT, and what better time than when you're young? I wanted to have one big adventure before I lose myself to the books in grad school. Unfortunately I'm still playing it by ear because I need to do more research to see if I can even afford it at all.
It's my first backpacking trip longer than 5 nights and my first ever winter backpacking trip. I've done a lot of research but I could really use some advice. Also, if anyone else is leaving in January, would you want to team up? I'm pretty flexible so I can leave between January 2nd and the end of the month. I'd like do 10-12 mpd for the first month or so and get hopefully up to 18.
The only supplies I have are boots, gaiters, 2 nalgenes with neoprene slips, and a pack. I have a ton of camping/backpacking gear but none of it is ultralight or winter ready. I've picked out a tent, bag, and a Jetboil stove but haven't purchased anything. I also will carry a SPOT GPS so my family and boyfriend won't freak out for 5 months.
Any and all tips are appreciated! I could really use advice on winter gear and basic survival in the winter.