Bartram Trail Section Hike Part 1 Georgia Highway 28 to Franklin, NC

Bartram Trail Section Hike Part 1
May 20 - May 26
Russell Bridge at Georgia 28 milepost 0 east to Hickory Knob TrailHead milepost 55.5
I am a section hiker and I have broken the Bartram Trail into two sections. The Bartram trail is 111 miles long starting at the Russell Bridge on Georgia highway 28 going west through the town of Franklin, NC and ending at Cheoah Bald on the Appalachian Trail in the heart of the Nantahala National Forest. My plan is to leave Williamsburg around 8AM on May 20 to Franklin, NC and stay at the Grove Hostel that night and leave my truck there for the duration of the hike. The next day May 21 shuttle to Russell Bridge hiking an easy 7 miles and the remaining 4 days hike around 12 miles a day coming out at Hickory Knob trail head on May 25. That point begins an 8 1/2 mile road walkthrough Franklin to the hostel or we get a shuttle back to the hostel and spend the night. Then drive home May 26.
Please note the following:

• I am driving my truck and I can carry three people besides myself. Any more sign up they will have to have a driver
• I have maps but not sure if this trail is on any other site. I use FarOut and it is not on their site. Go to the Bartram Trail web site and familiarize yourself with this trail before you decide to hike it.
• This trail does not have any shelters or privies or any places to resupply so pack accordingly. I do not mind sharing my water filter but you need to pack everything for meals as well as sleeping and hiking.
• Water is not a problem on this section except possibly the last day
• This is not a good trip for first time backpackers nor for children.
• I go regardless of weather. Check Franklin, NC for weather but subtract a few degrees when we are in the mountains.
• I practice Leave No Trace
• For stays at the Grove Hostel you have to make prior arrangements before going.
• Costs: I expect anyone riding with me to split equally the cost for gas and parking and shuttles. You will also need to pay for your two nights at Grove Hostel and of course any personal expenses.
• You are responsible for making all arrangements if you have to leave the trail early.
• I encourage you to call me if you have any questions and you must call me if you plan to go on this trip.

Mark J Wenger AIA
Mark J Wenger Architects
105 Thorpe's Parish
Williamsburg, Virginia 23185
948-529-0043