Hiawassee, GA, March 8, 2016 — You can see the excitement, feel the hope and smell the anxiety. 

The 2016 Appalachian Trail thru hiking season has begun and the numbers are up significantly. 
I’m in Georgia to hike the first 80 miles with my Hoodlum Trail Crew colleague and friend Denise. We start tomorrow. 

  
Meanwhile I’ve been hanging out at the Top of Georgia Hostel and jawing with the hikers. The place was packed to the max last night and the vibe reminded me of a movie on fast forward. 

This time of year brings out the thoughtful hikers who have planned ahead. They are a pleasure to be around. That description will adjust itself over time. 

Hats off to whoever planned the weather. Those who followed this blog last year read about the near constant cold, snow, sleet and rain. 

It’s the opposite this year. The highs are in the 60s and 70s with lows in the 50s. Only fifty percent chance of rain next weekend. Wow! is all I can say. 

Note to hikers, this weather pattern is not likely to hold. Don’t ship your winter gear home just yet. Mother Nature has a cruel sense of humor. 

  
Speaking of comedy, Bob “Sir Packs-a-Lot” Gabrielsen owner of the Top of Georgia and Mathew “Odie” Norman who founded the Hiker Yearbook could not resist themselves last night. 

Onward to Hawk Mountain!