With plans pushed back a week, I though it prudent to get in one more significant hike before leaving for the A.T. I chose the Croom tract up near Leesburg and headed up there early this morning.
Arriving at Tucker Hill recreation area around 8am, I donned my fully loaded pack, weighing in at 37 lbs (24 lb base weight plus food, water, and fuel). Setting off on the south C loop, it was 45 degrees as I left the parking lot. Although a little brisk, I didn’t break out any gloves or a jacket, and was perfectly comfortable after about 10 minutes of hiking.
This trail is about as close to AT conditions I have in central Florida, with rolling hills and some relatively steep up and downs. Today, I followed the combined C, B, and A loops for a total of 14.5 miles. Per my Garmin tracker, I completed the 14.5 miles in 4 hours and 51 minutes at an average pace of just over 20 minute miles. This included two stops to talk with other hikers. One of these was a guy who did his AT thruhike in 2003. Fascinating insights and very encouraging comments.
I saw one deer and what I think was a hawk, although I didn’t get close enough to be sure. It was apparent that there had been a controlled burn recently, as must of the underbrush was blackened and the ground was relatively barren. Still, the rolling hills and expansive views were beautiful.
As I returned to the parking lot, I felt pretty good, and have a renewed confidence in my preparation, stamina, and gear choices. I believe I’m as dialed in as much as I can be. I’ll continue to walk daily for the next week as opportunities avail themselves, and look forward to starting out 2/28 or 3/1. More to follow once I start out.
Stay tuned.
Keep up the good work Mike!!
ReplyDelete