Fourteen states, 2,190 miles, 5 million steps. The Appalachian Trail isn’t just a path; it’s a journey through the history of the United States. Follow in the footsteps of pioneers and presidents, traversing the same grounds that witnessed the birth of a nation.
Itineraries for everyone
Seasoned specialist guides
Beginners are welcome
Georgia: Start your journey at Springer Mountain, conquer Blood Mountain’s views, and experience the thrill of beginning your thru-hike.
North Carolina & Tennessee: Hike to the highest point on the A.T., Clingman’s Dome, and delve into the dramatic Nantahala River Gorge.
Maryland: Hike alongside waterfalls at Washington Monument State Park, and experience the peace of quiet forests.
New Hampshire: Conquer the challenging Presidential Range, with its granite peaks and alpine lakes, and witness breathtaking mountain scenery.
Maine: Reach the epic summit of Mount Katahdin, the northern terminus, and celebrate your accomplishment at the end of this legendary trail.
The guides were amazing. Not only were they great guides but also wonderful cooks. I was so appreciative of their cooking and providing us with delicious meals. The accommodations were exceptional. The hikes were nice and leisurely. Saw many waterfalls and wildflowers; however, we seemed to be a little early for some of the wildflowers. I would have liked a little more discussion on trees and shrubs. All the women on the trip were great – everyone was positive and easy to be with. The one downside was the afternoon shopping at the so-called craft stores. Most were not open on the day we were there, and even if they had been open they did not look very interesting.
I would definitely recommend these guys they are well trained knowledgeable caring people who saved my friends life. We were not even in their group and they were able to get my friend stable until search and rescue arrived. Brian and Andy I want to thank you personally and I want everyone who is considering using this company to know that I would feel very safe in the wilderness with these guys.
Ken was a great guide. We learned so much about the trail and the Smoky Mountains. Will definitely do this again. We all walked at a very comfortable pace.
5 stars all the way. Registered for my first overnight. I was beyond excited to experience the feeling of carrying a packed backpack and spending the night in the forest! Bev was our guide. What a wonderful experience she made this. Kind, caring and friendly! Equipment was well kept and up to date. I highly recommend this company and Bev. One of the greatest experiences of my life! Thank you! My heart is full! Kim Smith
There isn’t a single “best” month to hike the entire Appalachian Trail, as different sections have varying weather conditions throughout the year. However, the best time to hike the Appalachian Trail depends on several factors, including:
Here’s a summary of the best seasons to hike each section of the Appalachian Trail:
Northern Sections (New York to Maine): June to August (due to mud season in April and May)
The average cost to hike the Appalachian Trail can vary depending on several factors, including:
Here’s a rundown of the general cost ranges for hiking the Appalachian Trail:
Section-hikers: Costs can vary significantly depending on the length and location of the section hiked. A weekend section hike could cost as little as $100-200, while a week-long section hike might cost $500-1000.
The time it takes to walk the Appalachian Trail depends on many things, such as:
As a general rule, thru-hikers take 5 to 7 months to complete the entire trail. If you can’t commit to a multi-month hike, you can choose to walk the Appalachian Trail in sections over several years. Guided Appalachian Trail hikes might be the most efficient option, as your guide will take care of a lot of the logistical prep work and let you fully dedicate yourself to the walk.
While the Appalachian Trail presents undeniable challenges, it’s also accessible to a wider range of people than you might think.
Spanning over 2,100 miles, the AT demands significant physical endurance and commitment. The trail traverses mountains, with constant elevation changes, steep climbs, and uneven surfaces like rocks and roots. Also, conditions can vary drastically throughout the year and across different sections, with possibilities of extreme heat, cold, humidity, rain, and even snow. Finally, Backpackers need to carry all their supplies, including food, water, shelter, and clothing, adding significant weight on their shoulders.
However, with proper planning, preparation, and adjusting your goals based on your fitness level, experiencing the beauty and accomplishment of this iconic trail is possible. Guided Appalachian Trail section hikes are the perfect way to experience the Trail in beginner-friendly portions.
Thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail is not ideal for complete beginners due to its length, distance, strenuous terrain, and occasional remoteness.
However, that doesn’t mean beginners have to entirely forego the Appalachian Trail experience. Here are some alternatives to consider:
For total beginners, guided Appalachian Trail hikes are the ideal option. Your guide will take care of the prep work, help you choose the appropriate route, and keep you safe throughout the journey.
If you’re a beginner dead set on hiking the A.T., check out our handy little guide written by specialist guide Michelle Michaud.
While the Appalachian Trail boasts a strong sense of community, hiking it alone cannot be definitively guaranteed as safe. Here’s a breakdown of both sides of the coin:
Safety considerations for solo hiking:
How to make your Appalachian Trail hike more safe:
Personal judgment and risk assessment: Ultimately, the decision of whether to hike alone boils down to individual risk tolerance and comfort level. Carefully evaluate your abilities & the specific circumstances of your planned hike, and be prepared to adjust plans if necessary.
