Unless you're going in a group, I'm partial to a hotel stay in Tullahoma. Day park and hike in; pack out at night - don't have to worry about drunks shouting "F**K KANYE!" at all hours, generators buzzing loudly, 80+ temps in a tent, the odd theft of your belongings or provisions (despite the generally positive vibe, there are assholes that will rifle your site), or the all-too-often mid-June gullywashers.

I suggest taking plenty of clean water or at least an extra cooler stocked full of ice that can melt and provide you with water to clean yourself with and drink! If you are into barter, I suggest taking neato candies (I took Pixie Sticks and got massive praise in the trading). If you are camping, make sure you make nice with your neighbors as soon as possible! Good luck and have fun!

GWAR. Oderus Urungus comes to Manchester.

M: There may be an outside chance. The wife & I are going to Wilco at the Fox in ATL on that Friday. I may be able to talk her into a detour up I-75 rather than back up I-24. Stay tuned.