[at-l] Cold weather camping

[Carole Warner]

Hi Ya'll,

I'm in the process of creating my itinerary for my
2008 AT thru-hike, and I'd love some input from all
you experienced folk who've not only thru-hiked the
AT, but have also hiked in colder weather.

I know things can get pretty lonely on any kind of
extended journey (I went on a 6 month bicycle tour
once).  However, I'm definitely NOT interested in
starting out on the AT when there are crouds of twenty
somethings starting out (50/day by some accounts) and
the shelters and trail are PACKED, etc.  I prefer a
start with more peace, solitude and space.  So,
although I am planning a March 1st start date, I'm
seriously considering starting somewhere close to
Ashville, NC (perhaps even as far north as Damascus.  

In this way, I'll be at least a month ahead of the
throngs, and by the time some start to catch me
they'll be fewer in number I'm pretty sure.  This
would put me in Maine in July, and I'd finish up on
Springer in August or early September.  Ideally I
wanted to start in Georgia and end in Maine, but I
don't see a way to do so without starting in February!

So, #1 does March 1st seem too early to start (in
terms of weather, enjoyment of the hike, etc.)?  Any
other feedback on the weather thing on the AT?

#2 what thoughts, feedback, input do ya'll have about
my idea?  Any suggestions for other itineraries or
other ways to meet my "needs/desires" for my trip?

Any input (based on experience, not just opinion
please) you can give me would be greatly appreciated.

Many thanks.

Carole

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