The Appalachian Trail is one of the most famous hiking trails in the United States and by far the most popular, seeing over 3 million visitors each year. It’s also (in my opinion), one of the best places for a backpacking trip on the east coast. If you’re a beginner backpacker or you’re planning your first solo trips, the AT is a great place to start!
Running over 2100 miles from Georgia to Maine, there are countless places for you to plan a trip. The AT is great for 1 night trips, long weekend trips, longer trips over a few weeks, or you can go crazy and take a few months to thru hike!
Step 1: Pick a section.
The region of northern Virginia, Maryland, and southern Pennsylvania is a great place for beginners. The hiking is pretty easy, the shelters and campsites are plentiful, and the trail is never too far from civilization. There aren’t many amazing views though and more experienced backpackers may find this section a little boring.
The most popular sections of the AT are the Great Smoky Mountains, the Roan Highlands, the Grayson Highlands, and the Virginia Triple Crown, mostly due to the amazing views and wildlife sightings.
The White Mountains in New Hampshire and southern Maine are usually regarded as the toughest sections of the Appalachian Trail but they’re still popular for the views and unique hiking like Mahoosuc Notch: the slowest and hardest mile of trail.
Bear Mountain and Harriman State Park in New York is one of the oldest sections of trail still in existance and is a beautiful section for a fall trip.
Step 2: Pick a time.
Spring: One of my favorite times to hike! There is plenty of water and the weather is usually pretty nice. Leaves are just starting to come out and the woods are in full-bloom (if you time it right)! There will usually be other hikers out but it shouldn’t be too crowded.
Summer: It depends. The mid-Atlantic region isn’t the best option for the summer months, but NC, TN, and the north east could be ideal. Just check the weather! That will make or break your trip. Water can also be limited this time of year.
Winter: I personally tend to avoid winter backpacking. You definitely need experience and the right gear. This won’t be a beginner-friendly trip. Snow is very possible on the majority of the trail in the winter and temperatures will be dangerous if you aren’t prepared. This is the least busy season, for obvious reasons. If you’re prepared, it can be an experience worth having, but if you’re not, you will have a BAD time. Trust me.
Fall: My favorite time to hike! Water is usually VERY limited though so be aware of that. The weather is usually much nicer and the bugs typically aren’t an issue anymore. If you can time it right and hit the fall colors: 10/10!
True Hiker Season: This is always important to consider when planning a hike. Most thru hikers start in March or April in Georgia and hike north to Maine. Due to extreme overcrowding at shelters and camping areas, I would avoid the southern end of the trail in the spring. By May, thru hikers tend to be more spread out, but it’s worth checking wherearethehikers.com to see what to expect throughout the year.
Step 3: Gear up!
Gear is such a large conversation that I’m going to skip discussing it here and direct you to my separate posts just for gear: GEAR.
However, my one tip to everyone hiking the Appalachian Trail (or another long trail), is to download the FarOut app! I use it to plan every one of my Appalachian Trail hikes and it can literally be a lifesaver. See my post for more details: FarOut!
Step 4: Solo or With a Group?
Whether you decide to go out solo or as part of a group, the Appalachian Trail is a great time. There are pros and cons to both.
Solo can be lonely and more risky, but you can make your own decisions and change your plans as often as you like. As a group, I usually find trips more enjoyable and relaxing. If you have a large group, especially folks with different levels of experience/fitness, you may need to change your plans based on everyone’s needs.
However, on the Appalachian Trail, you can always find a friend and gain a hiking buddy if you want one. On weekends (not always in the winter), there are always other people around.
Step 5: GO!
The most important step of all….actually following through and getting out on trail!
Happy Trails! – em