Neel Gap
It is said that a quarter of all hikers who begin their thru-hike decide to end it by the time they get to Neel Gap. This is the first main road hikers come across northbound along the Appalachian Trail. It is a popular re-supply point since there is an outfitter right on the trail, albeit super expensive outfitter. Those who quit often toss their boots in the trees, now an iconic image representing the trail. It is rather amazing so many start such a long journey without knowing what they are capable of doing. In their defense, the first 32 miles are not easy. The mountains in Georgia are tough for the average person, gaining and loosing lots of elevation. At the gap, the trail goes through a breeze way of the building before the trail continues on the other side. Most hikers drop packs, check out the outfitter and eat something at the overlook adjacent to the store. The shop has limited food but as for gear, they have everything you might need.
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Mile 31ish
Inside the breeze way
Trail past the breeze way
Appalachian Trail passing through the building
Mountain Crossings at Neel Gap
Neel Gap as you drive by
Arriving at Neel Gap
Shoes in the trees
Shoes in the trees
Shoes in the trees
Lunch at the gap
Some family joining me for my lunch break at Neel Gap.
Ready to get back to the trail on a 34 mile day two.
Just up the trail from Neel Gap you enter the Ravin Cliffs Wilderness.
Great photo booth for those calling it quits at Neel Gap.
Trailhead sign and boots in the trees.
More boots in the trees
Dropping into Neel Gap from the south.
A cat that lives on the property at Neel Gap.
Outfitter at Neel Gap.