Hello, my name is Zak, I am 40, a single father of three boys, and I live in Western N.Y. STATE lol not city! I have an opportunity to free myself for about 110 days from June to October. I have wanted to hike the Appalachian and Pacific Crest trails since grade school, and the AT seems logistically and possibly financially feasible now. I am fit, and training more now that I know this is a possible reality. I am a fast hiker with plenty of experience. I hike and camp in local mountain areas of NY and PA in all 4 seasons. 2000+ miles with a 35 pound pack in 110 days doesn't sound impossible...but very ambitious. Am I wrong?
I have been reading many posts here, and from many other resources as well. It seems the more I read the less I know.
These are some questions I cannot find straight answers to;
Do I need permits for a through-hike south? I don't plan on using shelters.
I am doing this alone, should I be worried about defending myself against psychos, and or, wild animals? More the former than the latter.
I am buying all new gear, mine is old and outdated. Biggest gear concern is carrying/finding adequate water sources. I have experience mountain camping in all 4 seasons, but any solid gear recommendations would be appreciated. I'll go ultralight as much as possible.
5 months to plan this...I'm very excited, any nudge in the right direction from an experienced through-hiker or SOBO would be appreciated. Thanks everyone!