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Thread: 2018 sobo lash

  1. #1
    Registered User Grunt's Avatar
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    Default 2018 sobo lash

    This Oct. I will reach PA/NJ Line. It has taken 10+ years of section hiking. NOW I've got my kitchen-pass and have decided to complete the AT with one big LASH. SO... Without any restrictions WHAT WOULD BE THE IDEAL APPROACH?

    I am incline to think going SOBO starting in mid-August 2018 is my first pick. This to avoid temp/hum in mid-Atlantic states and the bugs in Maine. Going Southbound from Maine to PA should provide more Fall colors and temps.

    Can you think of 2 1/2 months that might be a better choice. And I really don't care which direction I go. Sooner I make up my mind the sooner I can begin the logistics.... lots of planning as I'm accustomed to using mail drops.

    Thanks for for any suggestions. I have used WB so much over the past decade for information and help.

  2. #2

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    So long as you can handle Maine right off and can cope with the possible weather extremes from mid September on, it's a good plan. Just make sure your in really good shape before you start, like doing a lot of hiking for at least the month prior.
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  3. #3

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    As a sobo, the Birches at Baxter will be unavailable to you. August is high season in Baxter, you'll need to get reservations. I always suggest sobos stay two nights, the days before and after their climb. I'll write a 2018 version after Baxter's season ends:
    The Sobo’s guide to Baxter and Katahdin for 2017
    Teej

    "[ATers] represent three percent of our use and about twenty percent of our effort," retired Baxter Park Director Jensen Bissell.

  4. #4
    Registered User Grunt's Avatar
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    Quote Originally Posted by Slo-go'en View Post
    So long as you can handle Maine right off and can cope with the possible weather extremes from mid September on, it's a good plan. Just make sure your in really good shape before you start, like doing a lot of hiking for at least the month prior.
    Sees lots of your comments... thanks for the response. I am somewhat intimidated but the prospect of Maine/NH but I see lots of folks do it... even those my age. I am in great shape but I will be 66 so it is somewhat subjective. Every year for the past ten have been a real physical test... I've never came back and said it was an easy hump.... they are ALL tough as you age... the verticals stop me in my tracks and I just need to really take my time.

    You mentioned weather extremes for Sept. on... I'm hoping to maybe be out of Maine/NH within six weeks... the end of September ???? I could start earlier in August... I have no restrictions... what do you suggest? Living at the beach doesn't allow for any hiking but I'm very committed to working out; however.... I DEFINATELY know that it is NOT the same... my philosophy is to hit the trail in the best shape I can be in. The last several sections hikes from Shenandoah to PA I have averaged 15+ miles with a few 20's thrown in... but honestly those are high mileage for a man my age and I'd rather do less.... which I will have no choice in Maine/NH.... thanks again... happy trails

  5. #5
    Registered User Grunt's Avatar
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    Quote Originally Posted by TJ aka Teej View Post
    As a sobo, the Birches at Baxter will be unavailable to you. August is high season in Baxter, you'll need to get reservations. I always suggest sobos stay two nights, the days before and after their climb. I'll write a 2018 version after Baxter's season ends:
    The Sobo’s guide to Baxter and Katahdin for 2017
    Thanks Teej.... read your guide last night. Logistically it seems a bit overwhelming but like most things.... it will all work out but I have lived by the principle of PPPPP... thanks.

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