What is the hardest state on the Appalachian Trail?


What is the hardest state on the Appalachian Trail? 1. Southern Maine. For hikers heading north, hitting Maine is a significant milestone, and they are rewarded with this section that's arguably the most challenging on the trail.


What is the earliest you can start the Appalachian Trail?

Start Date for Northbounders:
  • If you're going northbound, the optimal start date is mid-March to early April. ...
  • To avoid crowds, start between April 15 and the first week of May. ...
  • You also have the option of beginning in February, but this is only recommended for experienced hikers due to severely snowy weather.


What is the friendliest town on the Appalachian Trail?

Damascus, Virginia certainly qualifies as one of the latter. This tiny locale in the southwestern portion of the state has gained the nickname of “Friendliest Town on the Appalachian Trail,” and you'll quickly discover why. The famous A.T. runs right through town, and the locals love it.


What is the most isolated part of the Appalachian Trail?

The trail is a remote place off season. During prime time you can forget about it. A couple fews days of solitude if you're lucky. Every state has its own degree of remoteness but the 100 mile wilderness is the most remote.


Is it safe to hike the Appalachian Trail alone?

People always ask me: “Is it safe to hike the Appalachian Trail alone?” I respond that yes, it is, but it's important to know how to protect yourself. Hiking the trail with a partner can serve that purpose, but if you're alone, consider carrying something for protection. A gun isn't the best choice.


How many miles can you hike a day on the Appalachian Trail?

According to the Appalachian Trail Conservancy, most hikers take between five and seven months to complete the AT end to end. According to our data, that translates to an average pace of 14 to 20 miles per day for most hikers.


What is the average age to hike the Appalachian Trail?

Most of the thru-hikers seemed to be in their 20s and, usually, had just finished university. The rest seemed to be retirees in their 50s and older. So it's a bit misleading when you look up the average age of people who try to thru-hike the A.T. and see the average age is about 36-years-old.


Which is harder Appalachian Trail or PCT?

You'll want to note that the AT takes five to seven months to complete its 2,190 miles, while the PCT take four to six months to complete 2,650 miles of trail. That shows, when evaluating the most obvious factor, terrain, the AT is without question the more difficult of the two trails.


What part of the Appalachian Trail is best for beginners?

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.


What is the most challenging trail?

The Seven Hardest Hikes in the US, Ranked
  • The Maze. ...
  • South Kaibab Trail/Bright Angel Trail. ...
  • Kalalau Trail. ...
  • Mist Trail—Half Dome. ...
  • Presidential Traverse. ...
  • Huckleberry Mountain. ...
  • Barr Trail.


Where do you sleep on the Appalachian Trail?

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.