GA LOOP Duncan Ridge Trail + Appalachian Trail (58miles in 3 days)

It is critical that you read the entire description of this event before signing up and please note that even then everyone will be added to the waitlist and screened prior to being added to this event. The max group size for this event will be limited to 6. If you do not have several D5 or D6s in your background preferably with the trip leader so that your pace can be evaluated or an extremely strong and recent hiking resume this hike is not for you. To ensure that this event is completed as planned everyone will need to be able to move a minimum of 20 miles per day at a very swift pace ~3.5 mph moving average with few stops so we our overall average from the time we break camp should be in the 2.8 - 3 mph range. We will be covering 58-60 miles and over 15,000 ft of elevation gain over our travels so strong legs, heart, and mind will all be required items. I will include a list of recommended and required items however anyone interested should already know what they require for backcountry travel and survival and we can share items such a stove, and water filter for this event. The trip leader has not hiked the entire trip path so this event is marked exploratory. This is not expected to be an issue as GPS tracks and maps are readily available and at least two individuals who have previously completed this trek have expressed interest in joining the event.

The plan will be to start the event Friday night at the Springer Gap trailhead on forest service road 42 near the start of the Appalachian Trail. We will hike in 5-7 miles down to three forks and start the loop clockwise going up the Benton Mackaye Trail until we find a suitable camp site and make camp. Saturday morning we will wake early and break camp at 7:45 - 8:00 am (Sunrise is at 7:57 am) we will hike a minimum of 20 miles if everyone is feeling well we will hike up to 25 miles and make camp. Sunday morning we will rise early again and break camp at 6:45 - 7:00 am (Sunrise is at 6:58 am) note that is the weekend daylight savings time ends. Sunday we will once again hike a minimum of 20 miles and if everyone is feeling well again we will hike up to 25 miles before making camp. Monday morning we will rise early again although you probably saw that coming by now at 6:45-7:00 am (Sunrise is at 6:59 am). Monday we will hike the remaining 5 to 15 miles (depending on previous days mileage) to the trailhead and anyone who is interested can join the trip leader in a celebratory meal and adult beverage at near by and yet to be established restaurant.

Directions will be provided in follow up email.