Appalachian Trail: Day 1
Disclaimer: This post is NOT sponsored. All the gear mentioned in this post was purchased by me at retail prices. I have no affiliations with any of the companies or brands mentioned.
Started at the Amicalola Visitor Center today. Coming from the archway there is a steep paved path that hurt my calves from the incline. The 604 steps were actually easier than the incline. I leapfrogged with a Kevin who was up here with his dog Mr. Perfect. Otherwise I mostly hiked alone. The ascents were hard and the other hikers left me behind. I did eventually get to Springer Mountain, saw the sign and the first white blaze. I then continued down the trail for the additional 0.2 miles to get to the shelter for the night.
There were only a few fellow hikers at the shelter when I got here, but more showed up later. Only 2 of us are actually staying in the shelter. The rest are in their tents or hammocks. Teghan, a fellow thru-hikers, was there. I initially met her at the briefing at the visitor center the day before. Also met Matt, a British hiker, Jen, and several others.
Discovered that my water filter is acting up. It filters, but slowly. I will be picking up a new one at Neels Gap in a few days. Tomorrow start the real AT hike.