Due to lack of interest/response from the Troop, this trip has been cancelled.
Come join us in exploring a tiny portion of the 2200 mile Appalachian Trail – the longest hiking-only trail in the world. Benton MacKaye published one of the original proposals to build the trail in 1921. A smaller 300 mile trail that runs along with the AT bears his name.
We’ll complete a 5 mile loop that travels on both trails and visits the southern terminus of the AT where many hiker begin their long trek. Some may have heard about the grueling approach trail to Springer Mtn from Amicalola Falls State Park. We are NOT doing that section. The 5 mile section we’ll cover is similar in distance and elevation change to the Cherokee Trail that goes around Stone Mountain.
A great summary of the loop can be found on Atlanta Trails website:
[Springer Mountain Loop: AT & Benton MacKaye Trail]
Everyone is invited to come hike and enjoy our beautiful southern
Appalachians, but not all Scouts are cleared to backpack overnight. The backpacking portion will be for older Scouts that have completed several campouts already and are experienced enough to carry the gear they will need. If you’re curious please ask. Eventually all our Scouts will get the chance to backpack.
When: Saturday (May 11), for hikers and Saturday – Sunday (May 11-12) for backpackers. We will meet at the trailhead at 10am on Saturday and should be back at the start by 3pm. Backpackers will stay overnight Saturday and should get back to the start by 12pm Sunday.
Where: North-west of Dahlonega, in the Blue Ridge Wildlife Management Area. This is located about 77 miles from the Scout Hut (approximately 2.5 hour drive).
Anyone interested can sign-up using the link below.
[Hike & Backpacking Sign-up Form]
The deadline for sign-up is next Tuesday, April 30. We will spend most of that meeting planning the details, meals, and coordinating for the trip. After that meeting, the remaining coordination will take place over email.
