ADVICE FOR TRAVELERS

Wander North Georgia, a popular store in Clayton, has compiled these tips for those planning to trek to North Georgia to see the eclipse:

Traffic is going to

be rough. Eclipse chasers, scientists and photographers from all over the world are traveling to North Georgia for that weekend. Then on top of that, add everyone who is going to be driving up from Atlanta and the surrounding region and there’s going to be some challenging traffic. This isn’t Atlanta with 12 lanes of interstate. Rabun County has four lanes on the main drag, two lanes everywhere else, and lots of twists and turns in the roads. So bring your patience and a generous spirit.

Have a plan. Know where you are going to view the event and double-check and make sure you have as many details about that location and any requirements before getting there. You don’t have to be at the highest spot or elevation for the best view. Parking lots and parks will be just as good, but again, check and make sure you are able to park where you want to park by calling ahead and asking questions. Consider arriving early so you’re not rushed or stuck in traffic. Bring a small ice chest with you for drinks or snacks, especially if you have kids. Bring a chair and blanket. Be sure you have eclipse glasses. Make a list and

check it twice. Please be considerate of the locals who live there

365 days of the year. While residents and businesses love to connect visitors with the area’s beautiful mountains, they can’t help but have anxiety about this many people coming to play in their backyard. They are worried about litter, the trails getting overused, the grocery stores being out of everything, people parking and pulling over in their yard and all sorts of other genuine concerns. Please be considerate and respectful. Pick up trash, follow the signage, and do what you can to make this a great experience for everyone. Listen to law

enforcement. They’re going to be out in full force helping with traffic and keeping things moving. So if they are directing traffic or pointing you in a particular direction or asking something of you, please listen to them as they will be dealing with all kinds of crazy for the event and need as much help as they can get. Don’t pull over on the side of the road. Speaking of traffic and law enforcement, don’t pull over on the side of the road or into anyone’s driveway. This goes back to the first point, have a plan. Don’t hop in your car and head in this direction without knowing where you’re going to go. You will end up having to improvise, which will create a snowball effect and exacerbate an already-strained situation. Make sure you have

glasses. This is a serious one. If you’re in the path of totality, the total eclipse will last a full 2 minutes and 35 seconds, but the need to wear eclipse glasses will last for almost three hours throughout the partial phases of the eclipse. Sunglasses won’t work nor will a half-dozen other DIY hacks. So make sure you grab a pair of glasses for a couple of dollars before you get up here so your eyes are safe and sound. If push comes to shove, you can try the pinhole method. There is no more

lodging. All the hotels, campgrounds and private cabins were at 90 percent occupancy over a year ago. Places to lay your head are at such a premium that even local farms have taken reservations for thousands of spaces on their land for people to sleep. Unfortunately at this point, there are simply no more spots for lodging, so if you’re coming, plan on coming on Monday or to one of the parties over the weekend. Stay home that weekend/day if you’re not coming for the

eclipse. The trails, restaurants and shops are going to be flooded with everyone who is staying here from around the country for the event. Don’t make the mistake of planning on going for a hike this weekend.