Awesome advice! I have read a lot about black bear encounters on the trail, but not so much about wildcats stalking folks. Gulp.
The gun thing...being a solo female hiker, I'm leaning toward taking my revolver. It's lightweight enough, but I know I run crazy ass risks in towns. If I get caught with it in the wrong state, I'm screwed.
My plan is to take the Approach Trail at Amicolola Falls and spend my first night on top of Springer Mountain.
Is it June yet?
Thanks a ton, Chris!