These are sound points being made...far more logical than "i heard" which is where I was coming from about the AT. I had heard that there have been several rape incidents at shelters along the way...but who knows how exaggerated that is, and if I am now perpetuating a myth. I also understand the AT to be near many small towns (as it is so long). I just feel that there are more incidents in local parks etc. than a place where one has to hike a ways to act nutty! Of course...if I wanted to do the AT...I would be able to justify why I could and even should!