PJAT 2016: April 1 - Getting Started

On this blog, you will probably tire of the phrase "take a hike." :)

We woke up at a leisurely time, got our car packed, and drove PJ to the Appalachian trail. We stayed the night in Ellijay - at a very inexpensive and pleasant motel. Then we headed to Amicalola Falls Park - to the Approach trail of the Appalachian Trail.

Just so you understand, the approach trail - the trail that actually gets you to the Appalachian trail - is 8.5 miles long. So, PJ had to hike 8.5 miles before he was "officially" on the trail. Let's be real, this approach trail should just be considered a part of the Appalachian trail!

PJ, PJ's Mom, and PJ's sister said goodbye as he headed out.

A Marker at the Visitor's Center where PJ checked in for his hike. Love the quote!!!

A rock at the start of the Appalachian Trail - approach trail.

Off PJ goes.

PJ checked in with a Ranger whose trail name was Clarity. She was nice. Then, we hugged, took a few pictures, and PJ was hiking. The clouds were grey, but there was no rain. It was a really nice day to start a hike.

After PJ left, Mom and Catania were getting ready to leave - taking a few pictures, using the facilities, etc. Mom realized that PJ HAD THE CAR KEYS!!!!! Of course! Of course the trip would start this way. By the time Mom realized it, PJ had been hiking for about 20-25 minutes.

Catania started to run after PJ. Don't forget - the start of the hike has a 1,000 foot vertical gain! Yikes.

Catania said a silent prayer that PJ would notice the keys. His phone was on Airplane mode. He was not looking for interruption. Thankfully, PJ did notice. He stopped for a moment to take off his jacket and realized he had Mom's keys. He turned his phone back on, called Catania, and she finished running up to meet him.

Amicalola Falls - the run up was worth it!

So - with keys in hand, Catania and PJ hugged one final time, laughed, and then he was really on his way.

PJ's first hike - From Amicalola Falls and past Springer Mountain

From PJ:

I climbed Springer Mountain, did the whole approach trail, then I went another 2.7 miles to some other shelter. I can't remember the name of it right now. All of my gear is working good. So far so good.

Here are some pictures from PJ