Finally, the cool weather is here and I'm ready to get back to the woods. I usually go solo, because my friends don't get it for some reason, so I'm looking for new friends...lol. I have one good long time friend whom I've inspired, but he's not ready yet because he doesn't have any cool weather gear. My last 2 girlfriends wanted to sleep in a tent. I'm pretty sure that's why we broke up.
I live in Chattanooga and don't mind a bit of a drive for a good place to hang. I've mostly hung at Savage Gulf and Foster Falls and I'm ready to find some new spots. I've hung once near the Tail of the Dragon.
I'm by no means a bushmaster, but I have some skills and know how to be prepared. I'd be happy to share my pack list. At this point, I wouldn't want to have to hike in to camp more than 5 miles or so because of some foot issues. I'm not in great shape and move slow, too. This is one reason I'm glad cool weather is hear so I can get out to the woods more and get in better shape. I also have no problem with hanging near the car either. I just like being outside.
I'm not big on huge group hangs; getting away from the crowds is one reason why I go to the woods. But, I'm tired of going solo all the time, too. Maybe a small group, 2-5 people, would be cool.
I'd like to explore more of the Ocoee area and on up in to East TN, SC, and NC. The Smokies, Blue Ridge Mtns, and stuff around there. Also, N.GA, Like the Cohutta Wilderness, Chattahoochee NP, Johns' Mtn. Shoot, I'm down for checking out some areas just around Chattanooga like Printice Cooper SF or Cloudland Canyon area. I try to go somewhere most weekends, even for a one-nighter.
I work M-F, so if I need days off, I have to do it 2-weeks in advance. I don't mind hiking and setting up in the dark, as long as me or someone I'm with is familiar with the trail. I go to familiar places after work on fridays sometimes so I can wake up there and get 2 nights out of it. I can almost always get the time off I need as long as I give 2-weeks though.
These days, I like shorter hikes to a base camp and then day hike. For me, mostly, it's about exploring and hiking. Hammocks, and packs, and gear are just a means to keep me outside longer. So, if you aren't afraid I'll slow you down, let's plan something.
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