Appalachian Trail Tours

More about Appalachian Trail tours

• What is the best month to hike the Appalachian Trail

  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:

  • Direction you’re hiking: Most thru-hikers choose to hike northbound, starting in Georgia in the spring and ending in Maine in the fall. Southbound hikes are less common but can be done, with most hikers starting in Maine in the summer and ending in Georgia in the fall.
  • Desired weather: Spring and fall offer the most comfortable temperatures for hiking, with spring offering beautiful wildflowers and fall boasting beautiful foliage. Summers are often hot and humid, especially in the southern sections, while winter brings snow and freezing temperatures, which makes hiking much more challenging.
  • Crowds: The Appalachian Trail is most crowded from late spring to early fall, especially northbound. If you prefer solitude, consider hiking in the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) or during the winter.

  Here’s a summary of the best seasons to hike each section of the Appalachian Trail:

  • Southern Sections (Georgia & North Carolina): March to May or October to November
  • Mid-Atlantic Sections (Virginia to Pennsylvania): April to May or September to October

  Northern Sections (New York to Maine): June to August (due to mud season in April and May)

• What is the average cost to hike the Appalachian Trail?

  The average cost to hike the Appalachian Trail can vary depending on several factors, including:

  • Hiking style: Thru-hikers aiming to complete the entire trail in one go tend to spend more compared to those doing section hikes or shorter trips.
  • Gear: Purchasing new gear, especially lightweight and high-quality options, can significantly increase the cost.
  • Food and resupply: Opting for restaurant meals in towns will be pricier than relying on pre-packaged or self-cooked meals on the trail.
  • Travel and accommodation: Transportation to and from the trailhead, as well as any hotel stays or shuttles used during the trip, can add to the overall cost.

  Here’s a rundown of the general cost ranges for hiking the Appalachian Trail:

  • Thru-hikers: $5,000 to $7,000 for a 5- to 7-month hike, including gear, trail resupplies, and town expenses. This translates to roughly $1,000 per month.

  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.

• How long should it take to walk the Appalachian Trail?

  The time it takes to walk the Appalachian Trail depends on many things, such as:

  • Hiking speed: The average hiker walks between 2 and 4 miles per hour, while seasoned hikers often exceed that.
  • Distance: The Appalachian Trail stretches for 2,190.4 miles (3,524.8 km).
  • Terrain: The difficulty of the terrain varies throughout the trail, with some sections featuring steep climbs & scrambling, while others are relatively flat.
  • Trail conditions: Weather and other factors can impact trail conditions, which can slow down your hike.
  • Breaks and rest days: Most hikers factor in rest days and time for sightseeing and relaxation.

  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.

• Is the Appalachian Trail a difficult hike?

  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.

• Can beginners hike the Appalachian Trail?

  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:

  • Day hikes: Opt for shorter, day-long hikes on well-maintained sections of the trail to experience its beauty and build confidence.
  • Section hikes: Choose a shorter segment of the trail, like a few days’ worth of hiking, to experience a portion without committing to the entire journey.

  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.

• Is the Appalachian Trail safe to hike alone?

  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:

  • Increased risks: Hiking alone inherently eliminates the immediate support and assistance of a hiking buddy. This can be particularly concerning in case of injuries, getting lost, wildlife encounters, or other unexpected situations.
  • Limited resources: Sharing resources like food, water, and shelter can be beneficial, and solo hikers need to be self-sufficient and carry everything they need independently.
  • Mental and emotional challenges: The solitude and demanding nature of the trail can pose mental and emotional challenges for some individuals, especially first-time solo hikers.

  How to make your Appalachian Trail hike more safe:

  • Experience and preparedness: Experienced hikers with proper training, knowledge of wilderness survival skills, and meticulous planning can mitigate some risks associated with solo hiking.
  • Trail conditions and location: Hiking well-maintained sections of the Appalachian Trail with good phone reception and proximity to resources might be less risky compared to remote areas.

  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.