What is the hardest trail on the AT?


What is the hardest trail on the AT? 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.


What is the most difficult trail in Katahdin?

Cathedral Trail is the toughest choice while the Saddle Trail is the least difficult but also the most roundabout. Baxter State Park rangers won't waver from their assertion that most approaches are a ten-hour hike, which is in part a CYA stance.


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.


Can beginners hike Appalachian Trail?

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.


Is the PCT prettier than the AT?

The PCT has great views from day one. You're guaranteed a pretty panorama every day, and not just at viewpoints. Think about some of the PCT highlights. San Jacinto, Forester Pass, Kings Canyon, Crater Lake, and Goat Rocks, among others.


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.


Which thru-hike is the hardest?

The Continental Divide Trail Considered by many to be the most challenging and remote of the Triple Crown trails, the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail is a 3000+ mile adventure from Mexico to Canada, traveling through five western states.


What is the hardest mile on the AT trail?

Everyone has heard about the “hardest mile on the AT,” the Mahoosuc Notch. The Notch gets so much attention that most people forget to mention the following 1,600+' ascent over 1.5 miles up Mahoosuc Arm.


What is the hardest trail on the East Coast?

“There can be no doubt: The toughest day hike in all of the Appalachian Mountains is the Black Mountain Crest Trail (BMCT),” says Blood, president of the North Carolina High Peaks Trail Association. Lovingly named the “Death March,” this lung-bursting point-to-point summits six 6,000-foot mountains in just 11.3 miles.