Appalachian Trail Voyage Tips and guide

Contents

The Appalachian Trail is a United States National Scenic Trail that runs 2,198.4 mi (3,538.0 km) through 14 states in the eastern United States, following the Appalachian Mountain Range.

The Appalachian Trail passes through Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland, West Virginia, Virginia, Tennessee, North Carolina and Georgia. The trail is protected along more than 99% of its course by federal or state ownership of the land or by rights-of-way. Annually, more than 4,000 volunteers contribute more than 185,000 hours of effort on the Appalachian Trail. The Appalachian Trail Conservancy's mission is to preserve and manage the Appalachian Trail.

Every year, thousands of people try to hike the whole trail in a single journey (known as "thru-hiking"), typically starting from the southern terminus at Springer Mountain in Georgia. About 3 in 20 of those who try make it all the way to Mount Katahdin in Maine, the northern terminus. The vast majority of hikers choose to make shorter day or multi-day treks along portions of the trail are known as "section-hikers". Some short sections are fully accessible to those with disabilities; the AT has been traveled by hikers with a variety of disabilities, including those hearing-impaired and blind.

The trail's popularity stems from its renown, stunning scenery, and convenient accessibility to major population centers. For residents of the densely populated Northeast, the trail is typically within a three-hour drive. This proximity, however, has led to some areas feeling overly developed, particularly where construction has diverted the trail onto roadways. Fortunately, a federally protected corridor safeguards much of the trail, preserving a more authentic natural experience for hikers. In certain segments, such as the Hundred Mile Wilderness in northern Maine, hikers travel through 100 miles (160 km) without encountering a single paved road.

• National Parks Service page on the Appalachian Trail
• Appalachian Trail Conservancy

The Appalachian Trail ("the AT" for short) began as a vision of forester Benton MacKaye and was developed by volunteers and opened as a continuous trail in 1937. It was designated as the first national scenic trail by the National Trails System Act of 1968.

The AT's history isn't just about land and legislation; it's about the people who have walked it. One of the most famous early thru-hikers was Emma "Grandma" Gatewood. In 1955, at the age of 67, she became the first woman to solo thru-hike the entire AT, carrying only a simple homemade sack and wearing Keds sneakers. Her feat brought national attention to the trail and inspired countless others. She hiked the AT again in 1957 and 1964, proving her first hike was no fluke.

Thru-hiking is a term used in referring to hikers who complete long distance trails from end-to-end in a single trip. The Pacific Crest Trail, Appalachian Trail, and Continental Divide Trail were the first three long-distance trails in the U.S. Successfully thru-hiking all of these three trails is known as the Triple Crown of Hiking.

In general, the trail is open continuously year-round. The northern terminus at Katahdin is within Baxter State Park, which may be closed in winter months, depending on weather conditions.

Thru-hiking the trail at any time other than late spring to early fall is not something to be considered lightly. The trail is almost always colder and exposed to more extreme weather than surrounding areas, leading as it does along the mountain ridge of the Appalachians. In particular, expect plenty of rainy nights any time of year—this is a wet temperate forest, as the East Coast gets a lot of rainstorms, which halt upon the mountains regardless of whether they come from the east or west.

Bill Bryson published his account of walking the Trail. It was called A Walk in the Woods: Rediscovering America on the Appalachian Trail. Published in 1997, it was account of Bryson walking the trail during the spring and summer of 1996. Bryson only walked about 40% of the Trail.

In 2015, Bryson's book was made into a movie: A Walk in the Woods. It featured Robert Redford and Nick Nolte.

No matter which way you slice it, you'll be walking on the trail. The trail is open only to walkers, hikers, and backpackers—no motorized vehicles or even bicycles are allowed. Dogs can accompany you on most of the trail, except in most national parks (although they must be on a leash at all times). At least 50% of the AT within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is open to horses as well.

For anything longer than a day hike, be sure to prepare for rough conditions on your feet. Given the constant ups and downs of the trail, plus the ever present East Coast humidity, your feet will bear the brunt of your experience.

If you're just starting out on the trail, and are in average shape, don't expect to do much more than 8–10 miles in a day. Thru-hikers, whether they start in good shape, or wind up in great shape within a week or two, will cover far more ground, in the ballpark of 18–25 miles/day. Prepare yourself mentally for the rigors of the trail. If you are insincere and don't treat the trail with the respect it deserves, it's unlikely you will get far. Thru-hikers beware, it takes on average five million footsteps to complete the trail. Despite its great popularity, only 10,000 people have reported hiking the length of the trail.

The most common cause of failure to complete the trail is lack of preparedness - both physical and mental. It is important to begin regular walks in the months and weeks leading up to the thru-hike, beginning with low-impact day-hikes in easy terrain while carrying a minimum of weight. When these day-hikes become nearly effortless, increase the distance and include several multi-day hikes that require a full backpack with food, water and gear. In addition, hilly terrain should be incorporated as soon as possible in order to build up strength in the muscles required for climbs and descents. Performing regular hikes that continually push the body's current limits will not only toughen the body but will also go a long way toward mentally preparing oneself for the constant strain on body and mind.

Mentally you need to be prepared for what the trail and elements will throw at you. If you let every inconvenience get to you, you won't last long. Physical pain is part of the process and if you focus on this, you won't enjoy the magnificent hike and life experience that this is. The days will blur into each other and you will forget most of it so keeping a journal is a great way to keep track of things. By recording your experiences and charting your daily progress you can find what works for you as you progress.

Equipment should be purchased well in advance of the AT start date and should be used as many times as possible to both allow the hiker to become familiar with the gear (backpacks adjusted properly, boots broken in, etc.) and to identify any broken, impractical or unsatisfactory items. Prospective thru-hikers should get in contact with local hiking clubs and solicit advice on what pieces of equipment are completely unnecessary, which are luxury items and which are essential. Different hikers have different philosophies on how much gear should be taken, from those in the "lean and fast" school of thought which advocates a minimum of everything - no stove, no tent, hiking sandals instead of boots and little else - to the "slow and comfortable" school which sacrifices speed and low weight for comfort. One should get as many opinions as possible and attempt hikes with various levels of gear until an acceptable amount of weight and speed has been achieved.

Preparing financially and logistically are also essential to a successful thru-hike. The cost of a hike will range from several hundred dollars a month on the low end to upwards of a thousand dollars a month for the high end. Each person has a different minimum level of comfort and nourishment; it is vital to discover what one's own level is as early as possible and to make supply arrangements accordingly. Study the route and identify towns that will serve as likely resupply centers and map out distances between post offices. An experienced thru-hiker resupplies his or her dry goods every 10-14 days, either through the post offices' general delivery drop-box system or through local purchases. For more information, see Wilderness backpacking.

Appalachian Trail shelters are located along the trail. These are maintained by AT volunteers. Latitude/longitude data for trail shelters can be found here. Many towns along the trail offer lodging in the form of hotels, motels, rooms and such. Most of the towns are receptive to those on the trail and welcome visitors.

Getting a good night's sleep is critical for recharging yourself physically and mentally. As you progress through the trail, you will develop a nighttime routine for yourself.

With the exception of occasional lean-tos (which are usually less comfortable than camping), you will rely on tents only throughout your hike, unless you take a break and walk off the trail into a town. Two matters are essential to address with your tent. First, make sure it's weather proof. Many a hiker thought it would be nice in Georgia in the spring, and to their horror had to quit when freezing in the snow. And it will rain on you, so make sure that you have a tent that will not leak, and that you can set up your tent without it flooding in the process. Second, you'll want a light tent that you can carry without loading down your back. Look for lightweight and ultra-lightweight backpacking tents, which you can find online at a number of dealers.

The rules are quite open for camping along the trail, even in most of the national parks. You can camp at the occasional built campground—these are usually crowded and often full, but are great places to meet other hikers and share stories and advice. But most nights you'll find yourself on your own. Pick any spot out of sight of the trail that is flat enough and that you can possibly clear of debris to pitch your tent. If you care at all about this wonderful trail, and don't want to ruin it for future visitors, always practice leave-no-trace camping, and restore some natural debris over the ground where you pitched your tent.

By far the most common mode of transport for getting to the trail is by car. There is ample parking along the trail (at trailheads leading to the trail proper)—in the more populated areas there is usually an entrance parking lot every 10 mi (16 km) or so. Be sure not to leave anything valuable/visible in your car while gone (especially nice hiking equipment!). The Appalachian Trail is not set up for many circular routes, so you may want to arrange transportation to and from the trail at your start and end points. You can try to get off the trail near a town and try and pay someone to take you back to your car, but it's a much better plan to have a good friend or relative responsible for your transport!

There are two train stations on the trail. In West Virginia, the Harper's Ferry Amtrak station is easily accessible from the trail and the town of Harper's Ferry. Amtrak and MARC trains provide daily service to Washington, D.C. in under two hours. In New York, the Appalachian Trail station (an uncovered platform) on the Metro-North railroad can connect you with New York City and beyond (service on weekends and holidays only).

Neither fees nor permits are required to hike and camp along the vast majority of the Appalachian Trail. The only exceptions are at some of the most crowded National Parks along the way, most notably Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Shenandoah National Park. Even there, the fees are low, and the permits flexible (since they know that thru-hikers cannot commit to rigid plans). Baxter State Park in Maine also requires both registration and fees for all camping within the park. The only other areas with camping fees are at a couple of well-maintained campsites in the Green Mountain National Forest and White Mountain National Forest. But you can just camp in the wild if you're feeling cheap!

Map of Appalachian Trail

After a brief explanation of the trail in each state, a small list of landmarks and towns that are reachable along the trail is given.

The Appalachian Trail begins its 75.2-mile journey through Georgia at Springer Mountain, the 34.62672-84.1938881 Southern terminus (mi 0) of the trail. Many hikers begin their trek by taking the 8.8-mile approach trail from Amicalola Falls State Park, home to Georgia's tallest waterfall, before officially reaching the AT. Over the course of about seven days, hikers navigate rolling mountains, scenic ridgelines, and 12 shelters, spaced an average of 6.7 miles apart, before crossing into North Carolina.

Early in the hike, the trail passes through Suches, Georgia and leads to Neel's Gap, home to the Walasi-Yi Interpretive Center at Mountain Crossings, a popular outfitter and resupply point. This unique stop is the only fully enclosed building the AT passes through, and many hikers take the opportunity to purchase gear, resupply food, or lighten their pack by sending items home. Access to Mountain Crossings is available at 34.735004-83.9176682 Hwy 19 Crossing (mi 31), making it a crucial early stop for northbound hikers.

As hikers continue north, they approach two important road crossings that provide access to Hiawassee, Georgia, a major resupply town. 34.726181-83.847523 Hwy 348 Crossing 1 (mi 52) (mi 52) and 34.725277-83.8391164 Hwy 348 Crossing 2 (mi 69) provide a route into Hiawassee.

Spanning 380.8 miles, the North Carolina and Tennessee section of the Appalachian Trail takes hikers through some of the most scenic and rugged terrain on the journey north. This section includes Great Smoky Mountains National Park, covering 71.6 miles, and features 53 shelters, spaced an average of 7.4 miles apart. Hikers typically take about 30 days to reach Virginia, passing through key towns and resupply points along the way.

At 35.121767-83.5446945 Winding Stair Gap (mi 109), hikers can hitch a short 10-mile ride into Franklin, NC, a well-known trail town with solid resupply options, hostels, and shuttle services. Franklin is a popular stop for early-season hikers looking to regroup before tackling the tougher terrain ahead.

Further north, the 34.97128-83.114656 Nantahala Outdoor Center (mi 137) provides a direct on-trail resupply stop. This riverside outfitter is a popular location for hikers to grab food, gear, and a meal before beginning the steep climb out of the Nantahala Gorge. The 3,000-foot ascent that follows is one of the toughest single climbs on the southern AT.

Just before entering Great Smoky Mountains National Park, hikers reach Fontana Dam 35.437173-83.8244687 Hwy 28 Crossing (mi 164). This is the last opportunity to print a Smokies permit before entering the park, making it a crucial stop. Hikers often take advantage of the “Fontana Hilton,” a well-maintained shelter with showers and lake views.

Once inside the Smokies, the trail gains serious elevation, leading hikers through dense spruce-fir forests and offering panoramic views from exposed ridgelines. The 35.611111-83.4258 Newfound Gap (mi 208) provides access to Gatlinburg, though a 15-mile hitch or shuttle is required. This tourist-heavy town offers extensive resupply options. Alternatively, hikers can hitch to Cherokee, a quieter town with a unique cultural experience.

Exiting the Smokies, the 35.782749-83.1019349 Green Corner Rd Crossing (mi 242) leads to Standing Bear Farm Hostel ☏ +1 423-487-0014, a rustic but well-loved stop offering small resupply options and bunks. This marks the transition out of the park and into the more open, rolling ridges of Tennessee.

The trail runs directly through 35.892-82.82910 Hot Springs (mi 275), a famous AT town known for its natural hot springs, good food, and welcoming hiker-friendly businesses. With its direct trail access, this is one of the easiest places to take a zero day.

Further north, 36.105758-82.44853611 Uncle Johnny’s Nolichucky Hostel Cabins & Camping (mi 344) sits right along the trail near the Nolichucky River. From here, hikers can either resupply at the hostel or take a short ride into Erwin (Tennessee), a larger town with better resupply options.

At 36.14752-82.1860312 Greasy Creek Rd Crossing (mi 369), hikers can reach 36.139055-82.189021 Greasy Creek Friendly Hostel ☏ +1 828-688-9948, which offers a limited resupply. This section features long ridge walks and gradual climbs, with occasional clearings offering views of the surrounding valleys.

The 36.177547-82.01164913 Hwy 19E Crossing (mi 395) provides access to Mountain Harbour Hostel 36.179438-82.0163352 Mountain Harbour Hostel ☏ +1 866-772-9494, just 0.4 miles off-trail.

Finally, 36.285768-82.15225714 Laurel Falls Trailhead (mi 423) provides access to Hampton (Tennessee). A scenic one-mile side trail along a creek leads into town, though resupply options here are limited.

Spanning 551.3 miles, Virginia is the longest state on the Appalachian Trail, but it is also one of the flattest, allowing for smoother miles as hikers continue to gain strength. The state is home to 65 shelters, spaced an average of 8.4 miles apart, and features some of the most iconic trail landmarks, including Grayson Highlands State Park and Shenandoah National Park.

The trail begins to ascend into Virginia’s rugged terrain with long, forested ridges and well-graded paths. After a series of moderate climbs, hikers approach 36.720511-81.46186715 Comers Creek Rd Crossing (mi 520), where a short side trip leads to Troutdale. Though resupply is limited, the 36.704534-81.4336993 Sufi Lodge ☏ +1 276-677-0195 offers accommodations and a small store, while those needing more options can arrange a shuttle to Sugar Grove. The ridgelines leading up to this area provide scenic overlooks, with mountain laurel and rhododendron blooming in the right season.

The trail continues north, weaving through the rolling hills and quiet woodlands of southwestern Virginia. After passing through open meadows, hikers reach 36.810831-81.42122216 Pat Jennings Visitor Center (mi 534), where a six-mile hitch provides access to Marion (Virginia), a popular stop for resupply. The terrain between Troutdale and Marion is largely composed of gentle climbs, with occasional rocky stretches breaking up the otherwise moderate hiking.

Beyond Marion, the trail follows a series of long ridgelines, rewarding hikers with expansive valley views before descending toward 36.964097-81.39143817 VA 610 Crossing (mi 556). A short 0.3-mile walk west leads to the 36.955831-81.4011954 Quarter Way Inn, a well-known hostel along the AT. The nearby woods offer a peaceful and shaded hike before the trail climbs once again toward the next major stop.

The gentle, rolling ridges of central Virginia continue as the trail approaches 37.136871-81.13338418 Brushy Mountain Outpost (mi 592). A three-mile hitch brings hikers into Bland (Virginia), a small town with basic amenities. The surrounding trail features smooth terrain, making for easy walking before the next gradual climb.

Forested pathways and rocky outcroppings define the next stretch, as the AT winds toward 37.170225-80.90192119 Wilderness Rd Crossing (mi 610). Just half a mile off-trail, Trent’s Grocery 37.175371-80.9082425 Trent’s Grocery ☏ +1 276-928-1349 provides food and supplies for those needing a quick restock. The surrounding miles offer a mix of smooth ridgelines and occasional rocky sections, making this a good place to take a break.

After a series of rolling climbs, the trail descends sharply toward 37.329463-80.75165420 Angel’s Rest Trailhead (mi 636), where a short walk leads directly into Pearisburg. As one of Virginia’s larger trail towns, Pearisburg has plenty of options for rest and resupply, making it a popular stop. The trail’s approach into town includes one of the more notable descents in the state, offering sweeping views of the New River Valley before dropping into the town’s outskirts.

After a steady climb, the trail reaches 37.371521-80.14969721 VA 624 Crossing (mi 710), where hikers will find the Four Pines Hostel ☏ +1 540-309-8615 just 0.3 miles from the trail. The surrounding trail offers a mix of wooded sections and open pastures, with stunning views of the surrounding valleys.

The elevation remains relatively moderate as the trail approaches 37.390935-79.9061922 Hay Rock Trailhead (mi 730). From here, the AT leads directly into Daleville, one of the most convenient resupply points along the Virginia section. Many hikers take advantage of this stop to rest and stock up before continuing north.

Leaving Daleville, the AT follows a series of ridges with occasional rocky outcroppings, leading to 37.596775-79.39016223 US-510 Crossing (mi 787). Hikers looking to reach Glasgow may find hitchhiking a challenge due to limited traffic, but patience is often rewarded. Glasgow has a free hiker shelter and a small selection of resupply options, making it a decent stop for those needing a break.

Further north, the trail descends toward 37.723669-79.25098824 US-60 Crossing (mi 809), where a nine-mile hitch leads into Buena Vista (Virginia. This small town offers a full resupply, making it a convenient stop before hikers continue their journey along the Blue Ridge. The approach into this area features long ridgeline walks with stunning valley views.

At 38.031264-78.85808425 US-250 Crossing (mi 864), a short 4.5-mile ride leads hikers into Waynesboro, one of the most hiker-friendly towns along the entire Appalachian Trail. Known for its welcoming community and extensive amenities, Waynesboro offers multiple hostels, a well-stocked outfitter, and full grocery stores, making it an essential stop before hikers venture into Shenandoah National Park. Many hikers take advantage of the town’s free shuttle services and well-established trail angel network, making resupply and rest days especially convenient.

Upon entering Shenandoah National Park, hikers experience a dramatic shift in terrain, with well-graded paths, rolling hills, and the added convenience of Waysides—small rest stops along Skyline Drive that offer meals, snacks, and limited resupply options. While these stops are a welcome break from trail food, they tend to be pricey. Some of the most popular ones include Loft Mountain Wayside, accessible from 38.260787-78.65456426 Frazier Discovery Trail Crossing (mi 893), 38.436696-78.47807227 Lewis Mountain Campground (mi 918), and 38.517454-78.43842728 Big Meadows Wayside (mi 927). For those looking for a more upscale dining experience, 38.593044-78.38039429 Skyland Resort and Restaurant (mi 934) provides full-service meals and breathtaking views of the Shenandoah Valley. A few days later, the trail reaches 38.661088-78.32345430 US 211 Crossing (mi 944), where hikers can hitch into Luray. This charming town is a full-service resupply stop.

As the park section comes to an end, the trail arrives at 38.878104-78.15070731 Hwy 522 Crossing (mi 972), which provides access to Front Royal. Known for its hiker-friendly atmosphere, Front Royal has multiple resupply stores, an outfitter, and several hostel options, making it a popular stop before hikers move into the northern Virginia highlands.

North of Shenandoah, the terrain starts to shift again, becoming rockier and more challenging as hikers approach the famed “Roller Coaster” section of the AT. Around 39.111127-77.85420232 Bears Den Hostel (mi 1002), the trail undulates through a series of steep, rocky climbs and descents. This affordable and well-loved hostel offers bunk space, a kitchen, and a small resupply store, making it a favorite overnight stop for hikers tackling this difficult section.

Just a few miles ahead, 39.187547-77.79833 Blackburn Trail Center PATC (mi 1010) provides another hostel option with hiker services, including bunks, water, and a relaxing place to rest before continuing north toward the West Virginia border.

Though West Virginia contains only 24 miles of the Appalachian Trail, it holds a special place in the journey. The trail leads hikers straight into 39.325398-77.74359934 Harpers Ferry (mi 1026), often considered the “psychological midpoint” of the AT.

Only a small percentage of thru-hikers make it this far, making Harpers Ferry a major milestone worth celebrating. The Appalachian Trail Conservancy's headquarters is located here, where hikers can have their picture taken for the official yearly album, marking their progress.

Resupply options in town are somewhat limited, so many hikers opt to send themselves a resupply box here. Despite its size, Harpers Ferry is a historic and charming town, offering a unique and rewarding break along the trail.

The Appalachian Trail crosses nearly 40 miles of Maryland, mostly following the ridgeline of South Mountain. Though a relatively short section, it is known for its gentle terrain and historical significance, making it a popular stretch for both thru-hikers and section hikers.

As hikers traverse this stretch, they come close to Smithsburg, MD 39.6547-77.573635 Smithsburg, MD (mi 1057), a small town located just 1.5 miles west of the AT, offering a convenient detour for resupplying or resting.

Along the way, hikers pass through Knoxville, Burkittsville, and Middletown, each offering glimpses into Maryland’s rich history and welcoming trail culture. With easy terrain and well-placed amenities, Maryland is often considered one of the easier and more accessible sections of the AT.

The Appalachian Trail travels nearly 230 miles through Pennsylvania, beginning at Pen Mar (Pennsylvania) on the Maryland border and ending at the Delaware Water Gap, where hikers cross into New Jersey. The trail initially provides easy terrain across the Great Valley of the Appalachians, but as it moves north, the infamous “Rocksylvania” section begins, with sharp, boot-destroying rocks that challenge even the most seasoned hikers.

Shortly after entering Pennsylvania, the 39.741474-77.49038736 Buchanan Trail E Crossing (mi 1085) provides access to Waynesboro (Pennsylvania), a town located a few miles west of the trail. Shortly after, the 39.905915-77.48955337 Lincoln Hwy Crossing (mi 1085) offers access to Fayetteville (Pennsylvania), also a short hitch from the trail. Between these crossings, the AT follows the ridgeline of South Mountain, offering gentle terrain and several scenic overlooks.

The trail then leads into 40.03233-77.3071638 Pine Grove Furnace Store (mi 1105) ☏ +1 717-486-4920, home to the legendary “Half-Gallon Challenge,” where hikers attempt to eat a half-gallon of ice cream in celebration of reaching the trail’s halfway point. The store offers a limited resupply. This section also marks the transition from South Mountain into the rolling farmlands of central Pennsylvania.

A few miles further, the AT passes through 40.156884-77.13260939 Boiling Springs, PA (mi 1124), a quaint town with historic charm. Resupply options here are limited. Between Pine Grove Furnace and Boiling Springs, the trail flattens out considerably, passing through agricultural fields and open meadows, a stark contrast to the rocky ridges ahead.

The 40.079676-77.19296340 PA-34 Crossing (mi 1132) provides access to Carlisle (Pennsylvania), located 4 miles west of the trail. Carlisle has limited resupply options, but a short hitch east leads to Mechanicsburg, where hikers can find an REI for gear replacements. After this crossing, the AT gradually returns to forested ridgelines before reaching 40.3939-77.020641 Duncannon, PA (mi 1150). The trail takes hikers straight through town, where resupply options are limited. Many hikers opt to send a resupply box ahead due to the scarcity of food stores. This section of the trail features the first major introduction to Pennsylvania’s infamous rocky terrain, which becomes more pronounced further north.

The next major points are 40.512502-76.34432742 Rd 501 Crossing (mi 1194) and 40.506669-76.37701443 Geary Wolfe Rd (mi 1196), both of which lead to Pine Grove (Schuylkill County, Pennsylvania), located about 4 miles west. Between Duncannon and these crossings, the trail follows a series of rugged ridgelines, with rocky outcrops and steep climbs becoming more frequent.

The trail then passes through 40.582222-76.02444444 Port Clinton, PA (mi 1220), where hikers can catch a ride 1.8 miles into Hamburg (Pennsylvania). Port Clinton has a hiker-friendly atmosphere, with the option to set up tents or sleep inside the town pavilion. The section leading into Port Clinton is notorious for steep descents, and the climb out of town is equally demanding.

The 40.783997-75.60482645 Appalachian Trailhead at PA-248 (mi 1261) provides access to Palmerton (Pennsylvania), just 1.5 miles off the trail. The hike leading into this area is among the most rugged in Pennsylvania, featuring the rocky, exposed climb over Lehigh Gap, often cited as one of the most challenging sections of the entire state.

Shortly after, the trail reaches 40.846389-75.29166746 Wind Gap, PA (mi 1282), which is located directly on the trail. This stretch of the AT continues the rocky theme of Pennsylvania, with jagged boulders and uneven footpaths requiring careful navigation.

Finally, the journey through Pennsylvania concludes at 40.9819-75.142547 Delaware Water Gap, PA (mi 1293), a popular stop for hikers taking a zero day before crossing into New Jersey. The trail takes hikers straight through town, which a few resupply options. The Delaware River marks the end of the Pennsylvania section, and from here, hikers cross into New Jersey, where the terrain begins to shift toward gentler ridgelines and wetlands.

The Appalachian Trail covers approximately 72 miles in New Jersey, beginning at Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, where the Kittatinny Mountains and the Delaware River create a scenic entry into the state. The New Jersey section is known for gentle ridges, wetlands, and wildlife, making it a pleasant and picturesque stretch of the trail.

The New York section of the trail is rugged yet rewarding, offering challenging terrain and scenic highlights, including a stretch through Bear Mountain State Park, one of the most famous locations on the AT. With frequent road crossings and town access, hikers can take advantage of convenient resupply points while enjoying the unique mix of wilderness and civilisation in this part of the trail.

After leaving the 41.219347-74.45520648 Stairway To Heaven Trailhead (mi 1360), which provides access to Vernon (New Jersey) just 2.4 miles off-trail, hikers ascend the dramatic rocky outcrops of Wawayanda Mountain, rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding valleys. The trail then winds through Wawayanda State Park, a mix of hardwood forests and wetlands, where wildlife sightings are common.

The 41.269862-74.18130949 Orange Turnpike Crossing (mi 1388) comes next, leading 3.7 miles into Harriman (New York). Between Vernon and Harriman, the trail crosses into New York and becomes increasingly rugged, with steep climbs over rolling hills. Hikers traverse the rocky ridgelines of Harriman State Park, one of the most scenic and physically demanding sections in the area, offering stunning views of lakes, dense forests, and rugged hills.

After tackling the terrain of Harriman State Park, hikers reach the 41.320024-73.98794850 Rte 202 crossing (mi 1408), which provides access to Fort Montgomery, New York, just 1.8 miles off-trail, where limited resupply options are available. From here, the AT crosses the iconic Bear Mountain Bridge over the Hudson River, offering breathtaking views before leading into Bear Mountain State Park. This section is famous for its well-maintained paths and includes the oldest constructed portion of the AT, dating back to the 1920s.

The next major stop is the 41.351167-73.92569751 Appalachian Market (mi 1414), which sits right next to the trail, providing an easy resupply point. Alternatively, hikers can venture into Peekskill, where they also have the option to take a train into New York City.

Continuing north, the trail meanders through rolling woodlands, passing several road crossings before reaching the 41.588432-73.65773152 Rte 55 Crossing (mi 1451), which leads 2.6 miles into Pawling, New York, where limited resupply options are available. Along this stretch, hikers encounter the Great Swamp, a unique wetland ecosystem with scenic boardwalks and marshy terrain, providing a peaceful contrast to the more rugged sections to the south.

Though Connecticut has a relatively short stretch of the Appalachian Trail, its beautiful landscapes, well-maintained trails, and charming towns make it a memorable part of the journey. The trail follows the Housatonic River for much of the way, offering scenic views and smooth hiking, with easy access to towns for resupply and rest.

The 41.731197-73.49098453 Appalachian Trail Parking at Macedonia Rd (mi 1472) leads just 0.8 miles into Kent, Connecticut. This quaint town provides a few small resupply options. Afterwards, the trail reaches 41.985-73.42222254 Salisbury, CT (mi 1504), closing in on the border with Massachusetts.

Spanning 90 miles, the Massachusetts section of the Appalachian Trail takes hikers through rolling hills, charming small towns, and historic sites. This stretch is known for gentle terrain, beautiful forests, and well-maintained trails, making it a pleasant and accessible part of the journey.

The first option for resupply in Massachusetts occurs at the 42.153827-73.36456655 US-7 Crossing (mi 1526), which provides access to Great Barrington, MA, a popular stop with ample amenities for hikers needing food and rest. From here, the trail climbs into the Berkshires, where hikers are treated to views of lush, rolling hill

Continuing north, the trail crosses 42.288887-73.15721556 I-90 Crossing (mi 1555), leading five miles into Lee (Massachusetts). Hitching is usually required to reach town, but with a variety of stores and services, the detour is often worth the effort.

The trail then winds through classic New England woodlands, leading directly into 42.473611-73.16666757 Dalton, MA (mi 1574). While Dalton has some small stores, a full resupply is available just down the road in Pittsfield, making this a convenient place for hikers to stock up before continuing north.

Just a few miles ahead, the AT passes through 42.561944-73.16333358 Cheshire, MA (mi 1582). While this small town has limited resupply options, it is a good place to consider mailing a resupply box to ensure a steady supply of food and essentials.

Further north, hikers reach 42.713333-73.20944459 Williamstown, MA (mi 1597) and 42.700833-73.10916760 North Adams, MA (mi 1597). From the trailhead, hikers can either hitch 2.7 miles west into Williamstown, home to Williams College and a charming downtown, or walk about two miles into North Adams, where various stopping points along the way provide opportunities to rest and refuel.

Covering 150 miles, the Vermont section of the Appalachian Trail takes hikers through the Green Mountains, offering dense forests, gradual climbs, and stunning ridgeline views. The AT in Vermont shares its path with the Long Trail, the oldest long-distance hiking trail in the U.S., for nearly 100 miles before splitting off toward New Hampshire.

The journey begins at the Appalachian Trail Route 9 Trailhead 42.884704-73.11608861 Appalachian Trail Route 9 Trailhead (mi 1616), which provides access to Bennington, located 3.4 miles off-trail. This small but historic town offers a good selection of resupply options, making it a popular stop for hikers entering Vermont.

Continuing north, the 43.207174-72.97016262 VT-30 Crossing (mi 1656) leads into Manchester (Vermont), located 5.4 miles from the trailhead. While resupply options here are somewhat limited, the town is known for its welcoming atmosphere and outdoor gear stores, making it a good place to restock essentials or replace worn-out gear. The stretch between Bennington and Manchester takes hikers through the lush woodlands of the Green Mountains, with gradual climbs leading to breathtaking views along the ridgeline.

Further along, the 43.521223-72.9254263 Clarendon Gorge Trailhead (mi 1706) provides access to Rutland (Vermont), a well-known trail town with an active hiker community. The town is accessible via a short hitch, and it offers excellent resupply options, making it a common place for hikers to take a break or a zero day.

Just a few miles ahead, 43.664722-72.79333364 Killington, Vermont (mi 1709) is located only 0.6 miles off-trail. Unlike many trail towns that require a longer hitchhike, Killington is easily walkable, making it an ideal stop for hikers who prefer minimal detours.

Throughout the Vermont section, the AT remains a blend of dense forests, rugged terrain, and scenic mountaintop vistas. The combination of the Long Trail and Appalachian Trail provides a unique hiking experience, with a mix of thru-hikers and Long Trail hikers sharing the path. The terrain remains moderate, with steady elevation changes rather than the steep climbs found in other states, making Vermont an enjoyable but sometimes muddy portion of the trail before hikers continue into New Hampshire.

The New Hampshire section of the Appalachian Trail spans 161 miles, offering some of the most challenging and rewarding terrain on the entire AT. Home to the White Mountain National Forest, this stretch features steep climbs, rugged ridgelines, and breathtaking views, making it a defining experience for thru-hikers.

The trail leads directly into 43.7-72.28333365 Hanover, NH (mi 1751). North of Hanover, free camping is available in the woods near the trailhead.

Hikers can enter 44.030278-71.68583366 North Woodstock, NH (mi 1806) or continue to 44.045-71.670667 Lincoln, NH (mi 1822). North Woodstock is home to 44.029595-71.705666 The Notch Hostel ☏ +1 603-348-1483, while Lincoln is well known for Chet's Place, the most popular thru-hiker stop in the area.

The 44.257506-71.25301868 Pinkham Notch Trailhead (mi 1876) and 44.400859-71.10952669 Battle River Trailhead (mi 1898) provide access to Gorham, New Hampshire.

With its rugged mountains, breathtaking summits, and thrilling ridge-lines, New Hampshire is a physically demanding but incredibly rewarding section of the AT. Hikers prepare for some of the toughest climbs yet as they head toward Maine, the final stretch of the trail.

Spanning 281 miles, the Maine section of the Appalachian Trail is known for being one of the most rugged and challenging parts of the entire journey. Featuring steep climbs, river crossings, remote wilderness, and breathtaking views, Maine is the final test for northbound hikers and the grueling start for southbounders.

The town of Andover (Maine), located 8 miles from the trailhead, provides access to 44.667796-70.89295170 Black Brook Trailhead (mi 1948).

The trail runs several small towns next. The first is 44.9658-70.647471 Rangeley, ME (mi 1975), a town that sits at the halfway latitudinal point between the North Pole and the Equator. Afterwards, the trail leads to 45.141165-70.44062372 Stratton, ME (mi 2007) and 45.233889-69.9973 Caratunk, ME (mi 2044)

45.286944-69.50111174 Monson, ME (mi 2077) is a must-stop trail town before entering the infamous Hundred Mile Wilderness. 45.286768-69.5029637 Shaw's Hiker Hostel provides a full resupply, other options in town are limited, with several stores offering just enough supplies to get through the wilderness. Many hikers mail themselves a food drop to Monson to prepare for the next 100 miles with no resupply options.

Next up, hikers reach 45.657222-68.71027875 Millinocket, ME (mi 2180), marking the end of the Hundred Mile Wilderness. The only thing left between hikers and the finish line is the legendary Mount Katahdin. 45.653393-68.7086538 Appalachian Trail Hostel ☏ +1 207-723-4321 offers a free daily shuttle from Baxter State Park in the afternoon. An outfitter is available, as well as 45.656682-68.7094289 The Appalachian Trail Cafe and a small supermarket. Millinocket is 40 minutes from the AT, so plan accordingly. Alternatively, a limited resupply (as well as showers, laundry, and camping) is available at 45.83541-68.96519910 Abol Bridge Campground (mi 2178).

On the final stretch of the trail you will enteron your way to 45.904356-68.92127576 Mt. Katahdin (mi 2198), which marks the northern terminus of the Appalachian Trail. For northbound hikers, this is the final challenge—a steep, rocky ascent to one of the most iconic summits on the AT.

• International Appalachian Trail - The International Appalachian Trail (IAT) is an extension of the Appalachian Trail that continues from Maine into Canada, passing through New Brunswick, Quebec, and Newfoundland & Labrador.