What is the best time of year to hike the Appalachian Trail?

Mid-April through May, walk north with spring, with mostly pleasant temperatures and an abundance of wildflowers. Very hot, humid weather through the mid-Atlantic states. Favorable temperatures through southern New England. Periods of cold weather in New Hampshire and Maine in September and October.



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Despite how intimidating that may sound, beginners can scale the Appalachian Trail's numerous mountains and treat themselves to some of the most gorgeous views on earth.

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Shelter life Not only are they the best places to stay dry, but they reduce hikers' impact on the Trail environment. A typical shelter, sometimes called a “lean-to,” has an overhanging roof, a wooden floor and three walls. Most (but not all) are near a creek or spring, and many have a privy nearby.

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In general, ATC discourages the carrying of firearms on the Trail for the reasons noted below. On federal lands administered by the National Park Service (NPS) and the U.S. Forest Service (USFS), possession of a firearm must be in compliance with the law of the state in which the federal land is located.

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Most hikers spend an average of $1,200 – $1,400 a month during the hike itself. Disciplined, frugal hikers willing to forego motels, restaurants, and other amenities can get away with less; those who like to stay in motels and eat at restaurants when they have the opportunity can easily spend much more.

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Katahdin, the mountain you climb on your first day, is arguably the hardest climb on the A.T. It features more than 4,000 feet of elevation gain, the greatest sustained ascent on the entire Appalachian Trail. It is a scramble. Expect to use your hands as you climb over steep boulders and ledges above treeline.

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The original trail privies were all pit toilets and many of those older pit-style privies remain. But over time much more eco-friendly versions have been developed by the various trail maintaining clubs. The history of the Appalachian Trail privy is as old as the Trail itself.

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Top 10 Mishaps to Avoid When Hiking the Appalachian Trail
  • Bringing too much food. ...
  • Carrying too much water. ...
  • Carrying too many (or too few) clothes. ...
  • Not practicing with gear before starting. ...
  • Carrying a pack weighing 50 pounds or more. ...
  • Making someone's day turn to crap. ...
  • Sleeping with food in tents and shelters.


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The Easiest Sections on the Appalachian Trail
  • NOBO: Starts at mile 863 after Rockfish Gap / Waynesboro. ...
  • NOBO: Cross into Maryland from West Virginia at mile 1,024 at the Potomac River, hit the PA border at 1,065 at the Mason Dixon Line.


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