Originally Posted by
Dan Roper
Agree with those above, unless you and your son are already in full hiking condition, including recent long hikes to keep you at peak condition. Otherwise, a long, tough day on the opening day can be a kill-joy.
Davenport to Cosby Knob Shelter is shorter but still a good day's hike. From Cosby, the next obvious stop is Peck's Corner (or Icewater Spring, if you both want more after that first day).
Is it really only 6.8 miles from Mollies Ridge Shelter to Fontanta Dam? I think it is more like 10 or 11 miles.