GEORGIA – Doug Woods, the Sullivan County hiker attempting a northbound trek on the 2,200-mile Appalachian Trail, checked in this week from a hostel in Georgia after completing roughly his first 25 miles under winter conditions that have slowed early progress.

Woods said winter storms have brought down large numbers of trees across the trail, forcing frequent detours off the route and limiting daily mileage to about six miles. In some areas, he said, fallen trees appear every 50 yards, requiring hikers to climb through brush and back onto the trail repeatedly.

Conditions at higher elevations have included knee-deep snow with ice underneath from a recent ice storm, prompting Woods to hike in cleats to avoid slipping. Overnight temperatures during his first nights on the trail dropped to around 10 degrees, making camping difficult and draining cellphone batteries in the cold.

Despite the conditions, Woods said he is feeling good physically, reporting sore muscles but no injuries. His knees and back, he said, are holding up well after the first stretch.

Woods said he plans to slackpack in the coming days, a common Appalachian Trail strategy in which hikers complete sections of trail without carrying their full packs. By staying at a hostel and hiking with only food, water, and essential gear, Woods said he hopes to give his body a break from the weight of his pack while still making progress as weather conditions improve.

Woods said he expects warmer temperatures in the coming days to melt remaining snow and improve trail conditions, allowing for steadier mileage once he moves beyond the most heavily affected sections.