APPALACHIAN AUTUMN ADVENTURES SEPTEMBER 27-30, 2018 HIGHLIGHTS TRIP SUMMARY Riding well-trained horses on forest trails and back roads Whitewater rafting on the Chattanooga River Hiking on the legendary Appalachian Trail Savoring a sumptuous brunch at Wolf Mountain Vineyards Enjoying down time and camaraderie Phone: 877-439-4042 Outside the US: 410-435-1965 Fax: 410-435-3084 Email: info@goodadventure.com
TRIP AT A GLANCE Dates: Sep 27-30, 2018 Location: Dahlonega, GA Cost: $1050 Activities: Multisport Arrive: at 12 pm at the Atlanta, GA airport (ATL) on Thursday, September 27 Depart: at 4:00 at the airport (plan to fly out after 5:30 pm) on Sunday, September 30 TRIP OVERVIEW Northern Georgia, the jumping off point for the Appalachian Trail, offers an astounding array of activities for those who like to get out and play in the crisp, invigorating air of fall. So on this four day getaway, we will sample as much as we can: horseback riding, hiking, and whitewater rafting. We will also take advantage of the burgeoning foodie culture here, with dinner at one of the many fine restaurants and an outstanding brunch at a local winery. In between we'll plan time for relaxing and hanging out with each other at the hostel. Maximum group size: 12 RATING This trip is suitable for any healthy active woman who loves being active outdoors in the fall and exploring this beautiful area with its rich culture that ranges from its Appalachian roots. The hikes we've chosen are reasonably short but they are in the mountains, so women should be in sufficient condition to hike uphill for a couple of hours. A rating of 2 is suitable for any woman who regularly walks at a brisk pace 3 to 4 days a week for 35-45 minutes. Rating: 1 [2] 3 4 5. WHAT'S INCLUDED Two experienced AGC guides Roundtrip transportation to and from the Atlanta Airport All meals from dinner on Thursday through brunch on Sunday Three nights lodging in rooms shared by four people or single room with supplement All activities on the itinerary, including horseback riding, rafting, and hiking Not Included: Airfare to and from Atlanta airport (ATL) or the Hiker Hostel if driving, guide gratuities, alcoholic beverages and trip insurance.
OUR ITINERARY Below is the proposed itinerary for the trip. As is true on any adventure travel trip, plans for any specific day may be modified due to weather considerations, unforeseen circumstances, new opportunities, and group interests. DAY 1 SEPTEMBER 27, THURSDAY We pick you up at the Atlanta (ATL) airport at 12 pm and begin our adventure with an afternoon of horseback riding. We'll start with a short lesson, making sure that everyone is comfortable on her horse and knows the basics of riding. Our two-hour trail ride is just the right length- long enough that we can enjoy the scenery and cover some ground on forest trails and backwoods roads, but not so long that we are too stiff to walk afterwards! After our ride, we continue to our hostel for a hearty and delicious dinner. Well-fed and well exercised, we will be ready for bed tonight! DAY 2 SEPTEMBER 28, FRIDAY After a hearty breakfast at the hostel, we're off for a day of whitewater rafting on the Chattooga River. If the name of the river sounds familiar, yes - it is where Deliverance was filmed. Regardless of what else you remember about the film, you were undoubtedly struck by the beauty of this river. The section we'll be paddling is known for its breathtaking scenery, abundant plant and wildlife, and playful Class 2 and 3 rapids, ending with one big Class 4. This raft trip is suitable for women without previous rafting experience and even if you don't think rafting is your cup of tea, it's really the only way to experience the river's solitude and wildness. After a full day of excitement, we'll return to the hostel for another delicious dinner and relaxing evening with s'mores around the fire on the back deck.
DAY 3 SEPTEMBER 29, SATURDAY After another hearty breakfast, this morning we don our hiking boots for our 6-mile hike on the Appalachian Trail from Jarrard Gap to Neel Gap, crossing Blood Mountain. Blood Mountain is the highest peak on the Georgia section of the Appalachian Trail and the sixth-tallest mountain in Georgia, with an elevation of 4,458 feet. This peak has scenic views from the large rock formations that top the mountain, as well as a two-room stone shelter built in 1934 by the Civilian Conservation Corps. Our hike will probably take about five hours, as we stop often for pictures and to eat lunch. After some significant up and down, we end our hike at the only place on the AT where the trail passes through a man-made structure, Mountain Crossings Outfitter. After we've had a chance to shower and change, it's time to head to the square in Dahlonega for the Appalachian Jam: every Saturday folks bring their instrument(s) and just start playing and/or singing on the Dahlonega square. If Appalachian music is not your style, there are also lots of shops to check out. After a couple of hours we'll meet and adjourn to a local restaurant for dinner out. DAY 4 SEPTEMBER 30, SUNDAY Our breakfast will be rather light this morning because we need to save room for the brunch at Wolf Mountain Vineyards! Yumm!! Brunch is typically buffet style and served with a glass of Estate wine. Since getting a little exercise before being presented with a feast is always a good idea, we'll first go on a casual 2-mile hike at DeSoto Falls. After savoring our last meal together, we head to the airport where you can plan a flight out after 5:30 pm. ADDITIONAL TRIP INFORMATION GETTING THERE Flying - Plan to arrive at the Hartsfield-Jackson Airport (ATL) in Atlanta, GA in time to meet your group at 12:00pm. You will meet in the airport atrium just outside of the Burger King. Your guide(s) will be wearing a bright blue AGC t-shirt. Driving - You can meet at the riding stable at 2:30pm, after riding you can drive to the Hiker Hostel where you can leave your car. Alternatively, you can leave your car at one of the airport parking lots and meet at the airport. More details on the location of the riding stable will be included in the pre-departure document. If you would like help with any travel plans we recommend our travel agent Barbara Nelson, Scan East West Travel, at bnelson@scaneastwest.com or call 206-395-7836.
ACCOMMODATIONS We will be staying at the Hiker Hostel near the start of the trail. The hostel is a log home with just under 4000 sq ft of living space, and sits on a little over three acres of land with views all around. There are two bunk-style rooms that can accommodate four people each. Each room has its own bathroom, stocked with bath towels, hand towels, washcloths and basic hygiene products. We will have the entire hostel to ourselves during the trip. There are also single rooms available. We can accommodate a variety of dietary preferences and restrictions but, depending on your specific circumstances, we may ask you to bring supplemental food. Please contact the office if this is a potential concern for you. WEATHER The weather at this time of year is usually lovely fall weather and we will keep our fingers crossed for great fall color too! Typically, the highs are in the 60's to low 70's during the day, dipping down to the mid 40 s at night. Of course, you need to be prepared for rain but this is generally a dry time of year. TRAVEL INSURANCE WE STRONGLY RECOMMEND TRIP CANCELLATION/TRIP INTERRUPTION INSURANCE, WHICH COVERS YOUR COST IF YOU NEED TO CANCEL OR INTERRUPT YOUR TRIP for medical reasons, trip delay, lost baggage, and other unforeseen emergencies. Adventures in Good Company will send you information about travel insurance with your registration information, or you may purchase coverage through your own insurance company. In order to avoid disappointment and expense in the event that you must cancel your trip we strongly urge you to purchase some type of insurance coverage. You can also sign up for it online at Travelex Insurance. To get the best rates, use 20-0016 as your location number on the Get A Quote page.
PACKING LIST FOOTWEAR 1 pair of lightweight hiking boots or shoes 1 pair of comfortable athletic shoes, Teva/Chaco/Keen sandals, or crocs for general use 1 pair water shoes, neoprene socks/booties for rafting day. Please note: You do need to wear shoes that have either a heel or a heel strap for rafting. If you are OK with getting your casual shoes (noted above) wet then you do not need another pair of shoes. Slide type sandals and flip flops cannot be used for rafting. 2-3 pairs of hiking socks (some people also like to wear liner socks) CLOTHING 1 pair of comfortable synthetic/nylon long or ¾ pants for hiking. Zip-offs work well 1 pair of shorts (optional, especially if you have zip-off pants) 1 lightweight, light-colored, long-sleeved shirt to protect you from the sun button up the front is best 1-2 synthetic T-shirts or short-sleeved shirts 1 lightweight fleece jacket or wool sweater 1 medium-weight top layer (Options include a long-sleeved wool shirt, lightweight fleece pull-over or lightweight fleece/wool vest) 1 rain jacket/poncho and rain pants waterproof/breathable fabric like Gore-tex - not a lightweight plastic poncho Underwear/nightwear 1 wide-brimmed hat or baseball cap for protection from the sun 1 lightweight wool or fleece hat 1 lightweight pair wool or fleece gloves 1 2 changes of comfortable clothes to wear around the hostel and out to dinner TOILETRIES (small everything) Toothbrush, toothpaste, dental floss, hand sanitizer, contact lens paraphernalia, and sanitary supplies Sunscreen and lip protection with sunblock of at least SPF 15 Insect repellant Personal first aid/patch kit - Band-Aids, 1 safety pin, moleskin, Compeed (or blister bandages), ibuprofen, any personal medications Please note: Individuals who have had or have the potential for a severe allergic reaction to insect stings, specific foods or medications must bring an epi-pen. Please consult your physician and tell your guide. ESSENTIALS 1 daypack large enough to hold your supplies for the day (water, snacks, sunscreen, raingear, fleece jacket, personal patch kit, etc.). See notes on packing list Capability to waterproof your backpack. Either a rain cover or a heavy-duty plastic bag to line your pack. Capacity to carry 1-2 liters of water Sunglasses (100% UV protection) w/retention strap Small headlamp or flashlight 1 2 bandanas/buff Ear plugs (for a good night s sleep!) Wristwatch/travel alarm clock Tupperware-like container for sandwich/lunch Hiking poles (optional but recommended for your hike up Blood Mountain) Ear plugs (for a good night s sleep!) Your favorite snack (snacks will be provided-but bring if you have a personal preference) Plastic container for sandwich Headlamp/small flashlight (A small headlamp is most useful for reading in your bunk at night) OPTIONAL (personal preference, not required) Camera (extra battery) and film/memory card Book, notebook, journal, pencil/pen Binoculars Wrist watch/travel alarm clock
NOTES ON PACKING Adventures in Good Company's packing list covers everything you need to assure your safety and comfort. You may not use everything you bring; however, you need to come prepared for all possible weather conditions. At the same time, you must be able to carry your own luggage, sometimes up and down stairs. We recommend packing in a convenient, wheeled piece of luggage and bringing with you a soft-sided (canvas or nylon) duffle without wheels. Daypacks: Your daypack should be large enough to hold the following items: 1 2 liters of water, rain gear, lunch/snacks (for the day), sun screen, warm layer (fleece pullover or vest), personal first aid kit, lightweight gloves, warm hat and personal items such as camera,etc. We recommend a daypack with a capacity of between 25 30 Liters with a hip belt, padded shoulder straps, and lifters. Line your daypack with a durable plastic bag to keep your belongings dry, and/or have an elasticized pack cover that fits snuggly over it. Before you leave home check to be sure that it is comfortable to wear all day and has sufficient space for all of your items. IMPORTANT: Before you leave home check to be sure that it is comfortable to wear all day and has sufficient space for all of your items. Note: Fanny-packs and hydration packs are not large enough to hold all of the items you will need for the day. Footwear: Well-fitting, sturdy boots or trail shoes are very important to your safety and enjoyment. If you plan to buy new boots, break them in by wearing them around town and taking some short hikes before your trip. For general hiking, lightweight or midweight cordura or leather boots with a Vibram sole work well. If you have weak ankles or are recovering from an ankle injury, get boots that come above the ankle you ll find that this will give you more support in uneven or slippery terrain. Remember to waterproof your boots before the trip. Even boots billed as waterproof need to be treated with a waterproofing product. Clothing: The clothing listed on the packing list has been chosen for your specific trip conditions and for its versatility for layering. NO COTTON for your active wear! It should all be made from synthetic/synthetic blends, down/down blends or wool/wool blends. Layering is the most practical and efficient method of insulating the body. Several layers of varied weight materials provide better insulation than one thick Layer of clothing. Also, adding or subtracting layers allows you to adjust to the temperature at your particular level of activity. Rain Gear: You will need a parka or jacket made of a coated nylon or a waterproof/breathable fabric like Gore-tex, HellyTech, Membrane, H2No, or Ultrex. Be sure it keeps water out. Before making this important purchase, be sure that it fits you properly. It should be large enough to fit over all your layers. In particular, the hood needs to be effective. It should shield your face from the rain and turn with your head. Movement of your arms must not interfere with the hood. Put on your daypack; can you still raise your arms? Your wind/rain pants should be comfortable, allow enough room for your layers, and permit free movement of your legs (for example, can you crouch comfortably?). Partial or full-length leg zippers are useful for easily putting your pants on over your boots. Hydration: Being able to easily access your water without assistance, so that you can drink frequently, is important to your safety and enjoyment. One method is to have a water bottle attached to your waist strap. Another option is to use a HYDRATION SYSTEM such as CamelBak, Platypus, and MSR bladder bags, which are collapsible water bags with a hose attachment that you drink from. The bags fit inside or outside your pack with the hose positioned over your shoulder so that you can access your water as you hike. Bladder bags can hold 1-3 liters of water. Personal First Aid Kit: Bring a small first aid kit with familiar medicine and first aid supplies you might need. Recommendations include the following: blister or foot remedies like moleskin, Compeed, blister bandages, or similar, a small role of duct tape (always useful!), remedies for respiratory ailments, stomach ailments, sore muscles or joints. The guides will have a first aid kit but having what you know works well for you is a good idea. Trekking Poles: Trekking poles are optional for this trip. Trekking poles are always recommended for our hiking trips.) Trekking poles contribute to your safety by improving your balance and stability, and to your health by saving stress on your hips and knees. If you are not familiar with trekking poles, read this blog post that addresses the most commonly asked questions: http://blog.adventuresingoodcompany.com/blog-women-travel/bid/154714/trekking-poles-for-hikingtrips-the-4-most-common-questions.