Deep Gap to Springer

[rdljr]

Just starting the planning and was hoping someone with more knowledge than me (read anyone) could answer a few questions.

• How are the trail conditions compared to Maine? If I can plan on 1mph in Maine what can I expect in GA?
• When does bug season start and end?
• Through that area is there a bad or good time to hike it?
• In a normal year how is the water thru that area?

Thanks in advance so much to figure out
RDL

[Slo-go'en]

Compared to Maine, GA is a cake walk. 2.5 MPH average should be easy to obtain.
Not sure they really have a bug season, but I've only been there in the spring.
Spring is the best time, May is good. Plenty of water, lots of wild flowers, mild temps, S-load of people.

Deep Gap is not the best place to start. it's not easy to get to and a shuttle will cost you because of that. Start at Franklin, NC or Hiawassee.

[WMR]

Or start at Standing Indian Campground, take Kimsey Creek Trail to meet the AT at Deep Gap.

[Gambit McCrae]

• How are the trail conditions compared to Maine? If I can plan on 1mph in Maine what can I expect in GA? - Very easy walking in GA

• When does bug season start and end? I would consider "bug season" to overlap with the hot muggy months for Georgia weather history. From Mid October to Mid May I would not consider the bugs to be an issue. Overall however, the bugs in GA year round are nothing like the peter nats ME has.
• Through that area is there a bad or good time to hike it? I would avoid March and April unless you like people watching. Thru hiker crowds are a plenty then but I never had issues finding a place to tent. I enjoy hiking in October myself
• In a normal year how is the water thru that area? Water has always been a non issue for me in GA. But I will typically drink a liter at every source I come to no matter the state, which relieves the stress of water for me on trail.

[glenlawson]

The Georgia section isn't bad. There are some tough areas, but you can usually make 2 mph, no problem. If you are used to Maine, 12 to 14 mile days shouldn't be a problem.

Bugs aren't bad, but the heat can be. There are times in July/August when your sweat will be sweating.

I agree with avoiding March/April. Hiking against the bubble is no fun and all the campsites are crowded. July/August, just be prepared for an afternoon thunderstorm so be ready to take shelter.

Water isn't really a problem. In late August through September, you may need to plan ahead and carry 2 liters, but most of the time you can go liter to liter.

[rdljr]

OK so i guess dicks gap would be a better ending place and shuttle from Hiawassee to Springer is the way to go.
Thanks for all the info, wanted to do an early in the year trip so I could save the fall trip for VT. Will have to look at the weather and people factors and figure out what is best. Again thanks