I must admit that I am a gear junkie. I put quite a bit of time into researching the things Gavin and I will need to comfortably and successfully complete our thru-hike of the AT. We traveled to Charlotte today to visit one of my favorite stores, REI. Most of today’s trip centered around shopping for Gavin. We purchased his tent, some boots and socks, and a print copy of AWOL’s Guide.
In preparation for the trip, I have been watching thru-hiker vlogs on YouTube. As I watch, I will be making notes in The A.T. Guide about good places to stay and which ones to avoid. On the trail, we will be using Guthook’s Trail Guide app to help us keep ourselves on the trail and inform us of upcoming views/shelters/water sources. These seem to be the two most common methods that thru-hikers use to guide their way along the trail.
Tomorrow we’ll be heading to Outdoor Supply in Hickory to see about rain-wear and a few more items. I’m thankful to my students and colleagues who sent me away from ACHS with a healthy pocketful of gift certificates to this store. Also, thanks to my lovely wife Beth who guided them in that direction.