Appalachian Trail

The Appalachian Trail (AT) travels 2,198.4 mi (3,538.0 km) between Springer Mountain in Georgia and Mount Katahdin in Maine, following the Appalachian Mountain Range through 14 states. It was designated a United States National Scenic Trail in 1968.

The Appalachian Trail began as a vision of forester Benton MacKaye and was developed by volunteers, opening as a continuous trail in 1937. It became the first national scenic trail under the National Trails System Act of 1968. The trail passes through Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland, West Virginia, Virginia, Tennessee, North Carolina, and Georgia, and is protected along more than 99% of its course by federal or state land ownership or rights-of-way. Each year, more than 4,000 volunteers contribute over 185,000 hours to maintaining it, coordinated by the Appalachian Trail Conservancy.

The trail's history is as much about the people who've walked it as the land itself. Every year, thousands attempt to hike it in a single continuous journey, known as thru-hiking, typically starting at the southern terminus on Springer Mountain, Georgia. Only about 3 in 20 who attempt a thru-hike make it all the way to Katahdin. Far more hikers tackle shorter day or multi-day stretches as "section-hikers." Some short sections are fully accessible to people with disabilities, and the trail has been completed by hikers who are blind or hearing-impaired.

One of the most famous early thru-hikers was Emma "Grandma" Gatewood, who in 1955, at age 67, became the first woman to solo thru-hike the entire trail, carrying only a homemade sack and wearing Keds sneakers. Her feat drew national attention and inspired countless others; she went on to hike the AT twice more, in 1957 and 1964. The trail's fame grew further with Bill Bryson's 1997 book A Walk in the Woods: Rediscovering America on the Appalachian Trail, later adapted into a 2015 film.

The trail's popularity owes much to its scenery and its accessibility to major population centers — for residents of the densely populated Northeast, it's typically within a three-hour drive. That proximity has left some sections feeling overdeveloped, particularly where construction has diverted the trail onto roadways. Elsewhere, a federally protected corridor preserves a wilder experience; in the Hundred Mile Wilderness of northern Maine, for instance, hikers go 100 mi (160 km) without crossing a single paved road.

The trail is open only to foot travel — no bicycles or motorized vehicles. Dogs are permitted on most of the trail (on leash) but are generally barred from national parks. Within Great Smoky Mountains National Park, at least 50% of the trail is also open to horses.

For anything longer than a day hike, prepare for rough conditions underfoot: the trail's constant elevation changes and East Coast humidity mean your feet will take the brunt of the punishment.

Beginners in average shape shouldn't expect much more than 8–10 miles a day. Thru-hikers, by contrast, typically ramp up to 18–25 miles a day within a week or two, regardless of the shape they started in. It takes roughly five million footsteps to complete the trail, and only around 10,000 people have ever reported doing so. Most who fail to finish do so because they weren't ready, physically or mentally, for the trail's demands — so train your mind as deliberately as your body.

Start months in advance with easy, low-weight day hikes, gradually adding distance, hilly terrain, and multi-day trips with a full pack of food, water, and gear. Consistently pushing your current limits builds both the strength and the mental toughness the trail demands. Once underway, accept that physical discomfort is part of the process; hikers who let every setback get to them rarely last long. Many keep a journal, since the days tend to blur together, and it's a useful way to track what's working and what isn't.

Buy your gear well before your start date and test it thoroughly — break in boots, adjust packs, and weed out anything broken or impractical. Hikers range from "lean and fast," minimizing weight above all, to "slow and comfortable," trading speed for comfort. Talk to as many hikers as possible and experiment with different gear loads until you find your own balance. More detailed general safety tips can be found in the Wilderness backpacking section.

No fees or permits are needed for most of the trail. Exceptions include Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Shenandoah National Park, where fees are low and permits flexible given how unpredictable thru-hikers' schedules are; Baxter State Park in Maine, which requires registration and fees for all camping; and a handful of maintained campsites in the Green Mountain and White Mountain National Forests.

The Appalachian Trail Conservancy also offers an official set of paper maps to use, which can be a good backup if electronic devices fail.

Preparing financially and logistically are also essential to a successful thru-hike. The cost of a hike will range from several hundred dollars a month on the low end to upwards of a thousand dollars a month on the high end. Each person has a different minimum level of comfort and nourishment; it is vital to discover what one's own level is as early as possible and to make supply arrangements accordingly.

Resupply is frequent on the Appalachian Trail, and most hikers buy food in trail towns every few days rather than mailing boxes ahead — very few send packages at all. If there's anywhere worth doing it, it's Fontana Dam and Monson: both sit before long stretches with no stores nearby (the Smokies and the 100-Mile Wilderness, respectively), so a mail drop there is genuinely useful rather than just convenient. Harpers Ferry is a milder case: the psychological halfway point has no lack of nearby towns, but in-town resupply options are limited and pricey, so some hikers send a box here rather than shuttle to a Walmart. Caratunk (Maine) and the Nantahala Outdoor Center don't require a mail drop at all — hikers pass through and resupply on-site without issue — but both are known for charging a premium, so a box sent ahead is a way to dodge those prices if you're cost-conscious.

There are many water sources along the trail, although not all are created equal. Make sure to carry water, as well as a water filtration device.

Appalachian Trail shelters are located along the trail. These are maintained by AT volunteers. Many towns along the trail offer lodging in the form of hotels, motels, rooms and such. Most of the towns are receptive to those on the trail and welcome visitors.

Getting a good night's sleep is critical for recharging yourself physically and mentally. As you progress through the trail, you will develop a nighttime routine for yourself.

With the exception of occasional lean-tos (which are usually less comfortable than camping), you will rely on tents only throughout your hike, unless you take a break and walk off the trail into a town. Two matters are essential to address with your tent. First, make sure it's weather proof. Many a hiker thought it would be nice in Georgia in the spring, and to their horror had to quit when freezing in the snow. And it will rain on you, so make sure that you have a tent that will not leak, and that you can set up your tent without it flooding in the process. Second, you'll want a light tent that you can carry without loading down your back. Look for lightweight and ultra-lightweight backpacking tents, which you can find online at a number of dealers.

The rules are quite open for camping along the trail, even in most of the national parks. You can camp at the occasional built campground, these are usually crowded and often full, but are great places to meet other hikers and share stories and advice. But most nights you'll find yourself on your own. Pick any spot out of sight of the trail that is flat enough and that you can possibly clear of debris to pitch your tent. If you care at all about this wonderful trail, and don't want to ruin it for future visitors, always practice leave-no-trace camping, and restore some natural debris over the ground where you pitched your tent.

In general, the trail is open continuously year-round. The northern terminus at Katahdin is within Baxter State Park, which may be closed in winter months, depending on weather conditions.

Thru-hiking the trail at any time other than late spring to early fall is not something to be considered lightly. The trail is almost always colder and exposed to more extreme weather than surrounding areas, leading as it does along the mountain ridge of the Appalachians. In particular, expect plenty of rainy nights any time of year. This is a wet temperate forest, as the East Coast gets a lot of rainstorms, which halt upon the mountains regardless of whether they come from the east or west.

By far the most common mode of transport for getting to the trail is by car. There is ample parking along the trail (at trailheads leading to the trail proper). In the more populated areas there is usually an entrance parking lot every 10 mi (16 km) or so. Be sure not to leave anything valuable/visible in your car while gone (especially nice hiking equipment!). The Appalachian Trail is not set up for many circular routes, so you may want to arrange transportation to and from the trail at your start and end points. You can try to get off the trail near a town and try to pay someone to take you back to your car, but it's a much better plan to have a good friend or relative responsible for your transport!

There are two train stations on the trail. In West Virginia, the Harpers Ferry Amtrak station is easily accessible from the trail and the town of Harpers Ferry. Amtrak and MARC trains provide daily service to Washington, D.C. in under two hours. In New York, the Appalachian Trail station (an uncovered platform) on the Metro-North railroad can connect you with New York City and beyond (service on weekends and holidays only).

Georgia

 75.2 mi

Every northbound journey begins here. The Appalachian Trail's official southern terminus sits atop 34.62672-84.1938881 Springer Mountain (mi 0), marked by little more than a bronze plaque and a metal box holding a trail register — a modest starting line for a path that stretches over 2,000 miles to Maine. Most hikers don't arrive here by road at all, but on foot: the 8.8-mile blue-blazed Approach Trail from Amicalola Falls State Park, which climbs past Georgia's tallest waterfall before delivering hikers to the summit, has become something of a rite of passage in its own right, an early test of both legs and pack weight before the "real" trail even begins. From Springer, the route follows a series of wooded ridges, steady climbs, and scenic gaps — including Blood Mountain, the highest point on the Georgia AT at 4,461 feet — before crossing into North Carolina. Along the way, hikers pass through 34.7348-83.9182 Neels Gap (mi 32), home to Mountain Crossings, one of the few places anywhere on the entire trail where the AT literally runs straight through the middle of a building, an outfitter and hostel where countless first-timers have paused to rethink what's really necessary in their packs. Most thru-hikers spend about a week in Georgia. This stretch has 17 shelters, spaced an average of 4.4 miles apart — among the closest spacing anywhere on the trail, a small mercy for legs still adjusting to life on the AT.

Farther north, hikers reach 34.726181-83.847523 Hwy 348 Crossing 1 (mi 52) and 34.725277-83.8391164 Hwy 348 Crossing 2 (mi 69), both of which provide access to Hiawassee (Georgia). Hiawassee is a common early resupply stop and a useful place to rest before the trail climbs toward the North Carolina border — one last taste of small-town hospitality before Georgia's rolling ridgelines give way to the taller, wilder mountains ahead.

North Carolina & Tennessee

 380.8 mi

The North Carolina and Tennessee section carries hikers into some of the most rugged and memorable terrain on the southern Appalachian Trail. The route climbs through the Nantahala and Cherokee highlands — Nantahala meaning "land of the noonday sun" in Cherokee, a nod to how little daylight reaches the bottom of its steep gorges — crosses Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and alternates between long forested ridges, deep gaps, and exposed grassy summits known as "balds." Most northbound thru-hikers take about a month to cover this stretch on their way to Virginia. The North Carolina stretch contains 15 shelters, while the Tennessee stretch has 38, for a total of 53 shelters spaced an average of 7.2 miles apart.

At 35.121767-83.5446945 Winding Stair Gap (mi 109), hikers can hitch or shuttle about 10 miles into Franklin (North Carolina). Franklin is one of the first major trail towns for northbound hikers, with grocery stores, hostels, restaurants, shuttle services, and outfitters. Many hikers stop here to regroup before the tougher climbs ahead.

Farther north, the 35.331335-83.5917326 Nantahala Outdoor Center (mi 137) sits directly on the trail beside the Nantahala River. It is one of the easiest on-trail resupply points in the southern states, with food, gear, lodging, and meals available without leaving the AT. The climb out of the Nantahala Gorge is steep and sustained, gaining roughly 3,000 feet and often standing out as one of the first major tests for northbound hikers still finding their trail legs.

Just before entering Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the trail reaches 35.4356-83.81927 Fontana Dam (mi 166) shortly after crossing Hwy 28. This is an important stop for hikers preparing to enter the Smokies, where backcountry camping rules and permits apply. Many hikers also stay at the well-known "Fontana Hilton," an unusually spacious shelter near the dam, prized among thru-hikers for its nearby free showers, flush toilets, and sweeping views over Fontana Lake — a small taste of comfort before the demanding miles ahead.

Inside the Smokies, the AT climbs into the highest terrain of the trail's southern half. The route reaches 35.562778-83.4986118 Clingman's Dome (mi 196), now officially known by its traditional Cherokee name, Kuwohi, and standing as the highest point on the entire Appalachian Trail at 6,643 feet. From there, the trail continues along high, rocky ridges toward 35.611111-83.4259 Newfound Gap (mi 208), where hikers can hitch or shuttle to Gatlinburg or Cherokee. Gatlinburg has extensive lodging, restaurants, and resupply options, while Cherokee offers a quieter alternative with its own cultural and historical significance as the seat of the Eastern Band of the Cherokee Nation.

After leaving the Smokies, 35.782749-83.10193410 Green Corner Rd Crossing (mi 242) provides access to Standing Bear Farm Hostel, a rustic and long-running hiker stop with bunks, showers, and limited resupply. This area marks the transition from the high, protected terrain of the national park into the rolling ridges, lower valleys, and open grassy balds of Tennessee and North Carolina — including, a bit farther on, the beloved Max Patch, a broad 4,600-foot summit cleared for pasture in the 1800s and now famous for its 360-degree views, often called one of the finest vistas on the entire trail.

The trail then passes directly through 35.892-82.82911MISSING WIKILINK Hot Springs (mi 275), one of the most convenient and popular trail towns on the AT, and the first place heading north where the white blazes run straight down the middle of Main Street. Known for its natural mineral hot springs, restaurants, hostels, and hiker-friendly businesses, Hot Springs is an easy place to take a zero day without needing a shuttle — and a well-earned chance to soak sore muscles in warm water before the trail climbs back into the hills.

Farther north, 36.105758-82.44853612 Uncle Johnny's Nolichucky Hostel Cabins & Camping (mi 344) sits near the Nolichucky River just outside Erwin, Tennessee, at the base of a dramatic river gorge popular for its own scenic day hikes. Hikers can resupply at the hostel or take a short ride into Erwin for a larger selection of stores and services.

At 36.14752-82.1860313 Greasy Creek Rd Crossing (mi 369), hikers can detour to 36.139055-82.1890214 Greasy Creek Friendly Hostel, which offers lodging and limited resupply. The surrounding miles include long ridge walks, steady climbs, and occasional clearings with views into the surrounding valleys, building toward the Roan Highlands — a chain of high, treeless balds famous for wildflowers, sweeping panoramas, and, in season, one of the largest natural rhododendron gardens in the world. The next major road access is 36.177547-82.01164915 Hwy 19E Crossing (mi 395), where 36.179438-82.01633516 Mountain Harbour Hostel is located about 0.4 miles off-trail. Finally, 36.301792-82.1291317 Laurel Falls Trailhead (mi 423) provides access to Hampton, Tennessee. A scenic side trail follows the creek toward town, passing the 40-foot cascade of Laurel Falls along the way, though resupply options in town remain limited.

Virginia

 551.3 mi

Virginia contains more Appalachian Trail miles than any other state — more than a fifth of the entire trail — and hikers often notice a change in rhythm here. The climbs are still significant, but many sections trade the sharp ridgelines of Tennessee for long, well-graded corridors through broad, forested terrain. It's a state that rewards patience: Virginia is also home to some of the AT's most iconic landmarks, from the wild highland meadows of Grayson Highlands to the sweeping ledge of McAfee Knob and the long, green cathedral of Shenandoah National Park. Sixty-three shelters are spread across the state, spaced an average of 8.8 miles apart — a comforting rhythm during a stretch so long that thru-hikers sometimes joke about the "Virginia Blues," the mental fatigue of walking through a single state for what can feel like forever.

After entering Virginia, the trail moves through quiet forests and open ridgelines into the highlands of the Mount Rogers area — home to Virginia's highest point at 5,729 feet, and to one of the most beloved stretches on the entire AT. Grassy balds, rocky outcrops, and sweeping 360-degree views define the Grayson Highlands, but what hikers remember most are the wild ponies that roam freely here, descendants of animals introduced decades ago to help keep the highland meadows open. They're famously unbothered by hikers, and more than a few backpacks have been nuzzled — or licked for salt — by a curious pony. From here the trail reaches 36.720511-81.46186718 Comers Creek Rd Crossing (mi 520). A short side trip leads to Troutdale, Virginia. Resupply is limited, but 36.704534-81.43369919 Sufi Lodge offers lodging and a small store. Hikers needing more options can arrange a shuttle to Sugar Grove. In season, the ridgelines in this area are especially scenic, with mountain laurel and rhododendron blooming along the trail.

The AT continues through the rolling woodlands of southwestern Virginia, then reaches 36.810831-81.42122220 Pat Jennings Visitor Center (mi 534). From here, hikers can hitch or shuttle about six miles into Marion, Virginia, a practical stop for groceries, lodging, and town services. The miles between Troutdale and Marion are generally moderate, with gentle climbs broken up by occasional rocky stretches.

North of Marion, the trail follows long ridges with wide valley views before descending toward 36.95895-81.3948721 VA 610 Crossing (mi 556). A short 0.3-mile walk west leads to 36.955831-81.40119522 Quarter Way Inn, a well-known hostel near the trail. The surrounding woods make for shaded, steady hiking before the AT climbs again toward the next major resupply point.

The trail continues through central Virginia's gentle ridges and forested hollows before reaching 37.136871-81.13338423 Brushy Mountain Outpost (mi 592). A three-mile hitch leads into Bland, Virginia, where hikers can find basic services. The terrain around this stretch is often smoother than the southern mountains, allowing many thru-hikers to begin increasing their daily mileage as their trail legs finally come in.

Forested paths, rocky outcrops, and quiet gaps define the next miles as the AT approaches 37.170225-80.90192124 Wilderness Rd Crossing (mi 610). About half a mile off-trail, 37.175371-80.90824225 Trent's Grocery offers food and basic supplies — a favorite unofficial gathering spot where hikers often cross paths with friends made earlier in the trail.

After more rolling climbs, the AT descends toward 37.329463-80.75165426 Angel's Rest Trailhead (mi 636), where a short walk leads into Pearisburg, Virginia. Pearisburg is one of the larger trail towns in this part of the state, with grocery stores, lodging, restaurants, and other services. The descent into town is memorable, with sweeping views over the New River Valley opening up before the trail drops toward the outskirts.

After a steady climb north of the New River Valley, the trail reaches 37.371521-80.14969727 VA 624 Crossing (mi 710), where Four Pines Hostel is located about 0.3 miles from the trail. This stretch also marks the start of Virginia's celebrated "Triple Crown" — three of the most photographed viewpoints on the entire trail, beginning with the jagged rock spire of Dragon's Tooth just to the south. Soon after, hikers reach the second and most famous of the three: 37.392486-80.03630628 McAfee Knob (mi 713). Its broad, angular rock ledge jutting out over the Catawba Valley has become the single most photographed spot on the entire Appalachian Trail, drawing tens of thousands of visitors a year, and it's easy to see why once you're standing at the edge with the valley spread out below. A few miles farther north, the trail passes Tinker Cliffs, the third crown jewel, offering an equally dramatic — if slightly less crowded — perch above the same valley.

The trail remains relatively moderate as it approaches 37.390935-79.9061929 Hay Rock Trailhead (mi 730). From here, the AT leads toward Daleville, Virginia, one of the most convenient resupply stops in the state. Many hikers use Daleville to rest, replace gear, and stock up before continuing north.

Leaving Daleville, the AT follows a series of ridges and rocky overlooks before reaching 37.596775-79.39016230 US-510 Crossing (mi 787). Hikers heading to Glasgow, Virginia, may need patience when hitching due to limited traffic, but the town has a free hiker shelter and a small selection of resupply options.

Farther north, the trail descends toward 37.723669-79.25098831 US-60 Crossing (mi 809), where a nine-mile hitch leads into Buena Vista, Virginia. Buena Vista offers full resupply and town services before hikers continue along the Blue Ridge. The approach to this area includes long ridge walks and wide valley views.

At 38.031264-78.85808432 US-250 Crossing (mi 864), hikers can take a short ride into Waynesboro, Virginia. Waynesboro is one of the most hiker-friendly towns on the entire AT, with hostels, grocery stores, restaurants, outfitters, shuttle services, and an active trail angel community that has made the town a favorite rest stop for generations of thru-hikers. For many northbound hikers, it is the main place to rest and resupply before entering Shenandoah National Park — the longest single stretch of the Appalachian Trail to pass through any national park.

Inside Shenandoah, the trail becomes more consistently graded, running roughly parallel to Skyline Drive for over a hundred miles, with rolling climbs, frequent views, and easy access to the park's scenic byway. Black bears are a common sight here, along with deer, wild turkeys, and the occasional timber rattlesnake sunning on a rock, so proper food storage is essential throughout the park. Hikers also pass several Waysides, small roadside stops that sell meals, snacks, and limited supplies. Popular stops include Loft Mountain Wayside, accessible from 38.260787-78.65456433 Frazier Discovery Trail Crossing (mi 893), 38.436696-78.47807234 Lewis Mountain Campground (mi 918), and 38.517454-78.43842735 Big Meadows Wayside (mi 927). For a more comfortable meal or overnight stay, 38.593044-78.38039436 Skyland Resort and Restaurant (mi 934) offers lodging, dining, and views over the Shenandoah Valley. At 38.661088-78.32345437 US 211 Crossing (mi 944), hikers can hitch into Luray, a full-service resupply town.

Near the northern end of Shenandoah, the trail reaches 38.878104-78.15070738 Hwy 522 Crossing (mi 972), which provides access to Front Royal. Front Royal is a popular stop before the northern Virginia highlands, with grocery stores, restaurants, lodging, an outfitter, and hostel options.

North of Shenandoah, the terrain turns rockier and more strenuous as hikers approach the well-known "Roller Coaster," a roughly 13-mile stretch of short, steep climbs and descents that thru-hikers have nicknamed the trail's "Pointless Ups and Downs" for how little elevation is actually gained by the end of it. Around 39.111127-77.85420239 Bears Den Hostel (mi 1002), hikers find one of the most popular overnight stops in northern Virginia. Bears Den offers bunks, a kitchen, showers, and limited resupply, making it a welcome break in a demanding section — and a fitting last rest before the trail carries hikers on toward Harpers Ferry.

West Virginia

 24 mi

Just beyond Bears Den, 39.18755-77.79803740 Blackburn Trail Center PATC (mi 1010) offers another welcome hiker stop, with bunks, water, and a quiet place to rest before the trail slips into West Virginia.

From there, the AT climbs briefly over Loudoun Heights — a Civil War overlook once used to bombard Harpers Ferry during an 1862 siege — before descending straight into 39.325398-77.74359941 Harpers Ferry (mi 1026), one of the most storied towns on the entire Appalachian Trail. Though it isn't the trail's exact halfway point by mileage — that distinction actually belongs to a spot farther north in Pennsylvania — Harpers Ferry has long been regarded as the AT's "psychological midpoint," and few towns along the route carry as much history. Sitting at the dramatic confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers, the town was the site of John Brown's famous 1859 raid on the federal armory, and it changed hands repeatedly during the Civil War that followed. There are no shelters on this short West Virginia stretch, but with a town this rich in things to see, most hikers aren't looking to camp anyway.

For many thru-hikers, reaching Harpers Ferry feels like a genuine milestone. The Appalachian Trail Conservancy's headquarters and visitor center sit right along the trail here, and long-distance hikers have made it a tradition to stop in, sign the logbook, and have their photo added to the yearly hiker album — a small ritual that connects each new hiker to the thousands who've walked this same stretch before them. Beyond the ATC, the trail winds past John Brown's Fort, up worn stone steps to Jefferson Rock — where Thomas Jefferson himself once paused to take in the view in 1783 — and on to the footbridge that carries hikers north across the Potomac and into Maryland.

Maryland

 40 mi

Maryland's stretch of the Appalachian Trail mostly rides the crest of South Mountain, and for hikers coming off the rocky grind of Pennsylvania, it can feel like a gift: gentle grades, frequent access to towns, and a landscape thick with Civil War history. It's one of the shortest state sections on the entire trail, but it packs in outsized character, from the original Washington Monument — the first completed monument to the first president, built in 1827 by the citizens of nearby Boonsboro — to Gathland State Park, the only place along the entire Appalachian Trail where the footpath crosses directly through a major Civil War battlefield. Nine shelters line the route, spaced an average of 4.4 miles apart, making it easy to break up even a short visit into comfortable overnight stretches.

As hikers move north, they pass near 39.6547-77.573642 Smithsburg (Maryland) (mi 1057), sitting about 1.5 miles west of the trail. It's a modest detour, but a convenient one for hikers needing basic resupply or simply a short break from the ridge.

The trail continues past historic communities including Knoxville, Burkittsville, and Middletown, threading through countryside once fought over during the Battle of South Mountain in September 1862 — a prelude to the bloodshed at nearby Antietam. Along the way, hikers pass Gathland State Park, once the mountaintop estate of Civil War correspondent George Alfred Townsend, where the striking War Correspondents Memorial Arch still stands as the country's only monument dedicated to journalists who covered the war. With its manageable climbs, frequent access points, and layers of history built into nearly every mile, Maryland is often considered one of the easier and more approachable stretches of the entire Appalachian Trail — a fitting, gentler prelude before the trail crosses the Potomac into Harpers Ferry and the psychological heart of the journey beyond.

Pennsylvania

 230 mi

The Appalachian Trail enters Pennsylvania at Pen Mar near the Maryland border and continues north to Delaware Water Gap, where hikers cross the Delaware River into New Jersey. For its first several dozen miles, Pennsylvania is full of surprises — southern stretches through the Cumberland Valley offer some of the smoothest, gentlest walking found anywhere on the entire AT, a welcome break after the climbs of Virginia and Maryland. But that ease doesn't last. Farther north, the trail earns its notorious nickname, "Rocksylvania," as the ridgelines turn into long, unrelenting stretches of sharp, uneven stone that test even seasoned hikers' ankles, boots, and patience. This section holds 24 shelters, spaced an average of 9.6 miles apart.

Shortly after entering the state, 39.741474-77.49038743 Buchanan Trail E Crossing (mi 1071) offers access to Waynesboro, Pennsylvania, a few miles west of the trail. Not far beyond, 39.905915-77.48955344 Lincoln Hwy Crossing (mi 1086) leads to Fayetteville. Between these two crossings, the AT follows the wooded slopes of South Mountain, where the walking stays gentle and forgiving, broken up by the occasional overlook and the historic ruins of old iron furnaces that once shaped this part of the state.

Eventually the trail arrives at 40.03233-77.3071645 Pine Grove Furnace Store (mi 1105), a modest general store that holds an outsized place in AT lore. This is the approximate halfway point of the entire 2,190-plus-mile trail, and for generations hikers have marked the milestone with the "Half-Gallon Challenge" — an attempt to eat an entire half-gallon of ice cream in one sitting, ideally without regretting it on the climb that follows. Records for fastest completion have been chased for decades, and the store keeps a running logbook of hikers' triumphant (and occasionally miserable) attempts. Just next door, the 40.0326-77.305646 Appalachian Trail Museum offers a deeper look at the trail's history, housed fittingly at the psychological midpoint of the journey. Beyond the store, the trail begins its transition from the wooded ridge of South Mountain out into the open farmland and gentler terrain of central Pennsylvania.

At 40.079676-77.19296347 PA-34 Crossing (mi 1114), hikers can reach Carlisle (Pennsylvania), about four miles west of the trail, where resupply options are limited but workable. A short trip east toward Mechanicsburg opens up fuller stores and outdoor gear shops for anyone needing to replace worn equipment.

A few miles later, the AT passes directly through 40.156884-77.13260948 Boiling Springs (Pennsylvania) (mi 1125), a small, picturesque town built around a spring-fed lake, with limited but functional resupply. Between Pine Grove Furnace and Boiling Springs, the trail flattens out dramatically, crossing open farm fields and quiet agricultural land — a striking, almost surreal contrast to the rocky ridges that lie ahead. From there, the AT climbs gradually back into forested terrain before reaching 40.3939-77.020649 Duncannon (Pennsylvania) (mi 1150), a classic, well-worn trail town where the route runs straight down Main Street. Services here are somewhat limited but reliable, and many hikers use the stop to prepare mentally and physically, since the trail's rocky character becomes far more persistent immediately north of the Susquehanna River crossing that follows.

The next access points, 40.506669-76.37701450 Geary Wolfe Rd (mi 1194) and 40.512502-76.34432751 Rd 501 Crossing (mi 1196), both lead to Pine Grove in Schuylkill County, about four miles west of the trail. Between Duncannon and these crossings, the AT settles into the rugged ridgeline walking that defines the rest of the state, with rockier footing and steeper pitches becoming the norm rather than the exception.

From here, the trail passes through 40.582222-76.02444452 Port Clinton (Pennsylvania) (mi 1220), a tiny, old-fashioned town that has long served as a reliable stop for thru-hikers, with informal camping available nearby. A roughly 1.8-mile trip to Hamburg opens up more substantial resupply for hikers who need it. The descent into Port Clinton is notably steep, and the climb back out returns hikers promptly to the rocky ridgeline — including, a bit farther north, some of the most celebrated viewpoints in the state at Pulpit Rock and The Pinnacle, both popular day-hiking destinations in their own right.

At 40.783997-75.60482653 Appalachian Trailhead at PA-248 (mi 1261), hikers can reach Palmerton, Pennsylvania, about 1.5 miles off-trail. The approach to this area crosses the exposed, rocky slopes around Lehigh Gap, one of the most distinctive and demanding stretches in the state — and one with an unusual history. Decades of nearby zinc smelting once stripped the surrounding mountainside bare, leaving a barren, rock-strewn landscape so stark it earned comparisons to a moonscape; the area was designated an EPA Superfund site in the 1980s. Since then, long-term restoration efforts have brought native grasses and wildlife back to the ridge, turning a former industrial scar into one of the more ecologically striking sections of trail in Pennsylvania, with sweeping, largely unobstructed views as a byproduct of the very devastation that once defined it.

Shortly after, the trail reaches 40.846389-75.29166754 Wind Gap (Pennsylvania) (mi 1282), located close to the trail. The rocky tread continues through this stretch, with uneven, ankle-testing footing that can slow down even experienced hikers who thought they'd gotten used to Pennsylvania's terrain by now.

Pennsylvania finally winds down at 40.9819-75.142555 Delaware Water Gap (Pennsylvania) (mi 1293), a small, popular town where many hikers pause to rest — and, often, to replace boots worn out by the state's infamous rocks — before continuing on. The trail passes directly through town, with a handful of resupply and lodging options available. From here, the AT crosses the Delaware River into New Jersey, where the landscape shifts abruptly toward gentler ridges, wetlands, and glacial lakes.

New Jersey & New York

 161 mi

The New Jersey section begins in Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, where the Delaware River and the Kittatinny Mountains create a scenic entrance into the state. New Jersey tends to catch thru-hikers off guard — long, easy ridgelines, boardwalks over marshy wetlands, glacial ponds, and a surprising density of wildlife, including one of the highest black bear populations anywhere on the trail. Seven shelters keep pace along the way, spaced an average of 10.3 miles apart.

New York trades New Jersey's gentler rhythm for something scrappier: short, steep climbs, rocky scrambles, and views that seem to open up around every bend. It's also home to Bear Mountain State Park, one of the most storied stretches on the entire AT — the very place where the first section of trail was built back in 1923, and today the site of both the trail's lowest elevation, a mere 124 feet as it winds through the Bear Mountain Zoo, and one of its most scenic crossings, the bridge over the Hudson River. With frequent road crossings and town access, hikers can resupply often here while still finding real wilderness tucked remarkably close to greater New York City. Eight shelters mark the state's stretch, spaced an average of 11.3 miles apart.

After 41.219347-74.45520656 Stairway To Heaven Trailhead (mi 1360), hikers can duck into Vernon (New Jersey), about 2.4 miles off-trail. North of here, the AT climbs Wawayanda Mountain, rewarding the effort with rocky viewpoints, shady hardwood forest, and wetlands where deer, turtles, and the occasional bear sighting are part of the scenery.

The 41.269862-74.18130957 Orange Turnpike Crossing (mi 1388) leads to Harriman (New York), about 3.7 miles off-trail. Between Vernon and Harriman, the trail sheds its easy New Jersey character and turns noticeably rockier and more demanding as it climbs toward the New York line.

Beyond the rugged terrain of Harriman State Park — a mountainous landscape dotted with dozens of lakes and laced with old stone-arch bridges from the 1920s — hikers reach 41.320024-73.98794858 Rte 202 crossing (mi 1408), which provides access to Fort Montgomery, New York, about 1.8 miles off-trail. From here, the AT crosses the Bear Mountain Bridge over the Hudson, with broad river views opening up before the trail climbs into Bear Mountain State Park itself. The path through the park's zoo is one of the oldest constructed sections of the entire Appalachian Trail, a fitting bit of history at the trail's literal lowest point.

The next major stop is 41.351167-73.92569759 Appalachian Market (mi 1414), sitting right beside the trail for an easy resupply. From here, hikers can also detour into Peekskill, where fuller services are available and a train connection makes a side trip into New York City surprisingly easy.

Continuing north, the trail winds through rolling woods, rocky hills, and a string of road crossings before reaching 41.588432-73.65773160 Rte 55 Crossing (mi 1451), about 2.6 miles from Pawling, New York, where resupply options are limited but workable. Nearby, the boardwalks of the Great Swamp offer a quiet, level change of pace after the rockier terrain to the south — a gentle transition before the trail pushes on toward Connecticut.

Connecticut

 51.6 mi

Connecticut's stretch of the Appalachian Trail is brief, but it packs in a bit of everything: hardwood forest, riverside walking, and rocky climbs, all threaded past a handful of classic New England towns. Much of the route traces the Housatonic River, home to one of the longest continuous river walks anywhere on the AT, offering hikers an easy rhythm before the trail turns rugged again on the climbs to come. Seven shelters break up the miles, spaced an average of 7.4 miles apart.

At 41.731197-73.49098461 Appalachian Trail Parking at Macedonia Rd (mi 1472), the trail comes within less than a mile of Kent (Connecticut), a small but well-loved stop with modest resupply, restaurants, and lodging — a good place to catch a meal before the trail climbs back toward the ridgeline above the river. From here, the AT continues north along the Housatonic Valley, past old iron-country landmarks and rocky outcrops like St. John's Ledges, before working its way up to Rand's View, one of the most photographed vistas on the entire Appalachian Trail, with the Berkshires and, on a clear day, Mount Greylock rising in the distance.

The trail then climbs Bear Mountain — at 2,316 feet the highest summit entirely within Connecticut — before descending toward 41.985-73.42222262MISSING WIKILINK Salisbury (Connecticut) (mi 1504), a classic New England trail town near the Massachusetts border. It's a fitting last stop before Connecticut hands the trail off to the Berkshires, as the AT descends into Sages Ravine and crosses the state line just beyond.

Massachusetts

 90 mi

Massachusetts eases hikers into New England with the Berkshires — rolling hills, forested ridges, quiet ponds, and old farmland stitched together by a string of welcoming towns. After the punishing terrain of the mid-Atlantic, this stretch often feels like a reward, with gentler grades that let hikers breathe a little easier. But don't get too comfortable: the climbs stiffen again toward the state's northern end, building to the trail's high point atop Mount Greylock. Thirteen shelters keep the miles honest, spaced an average of 6.9 miles apart.

The first real resupply comes at 42.153827-73.36456663 US-7 Crossing (mi 1526), gateway to Great Barrington — a polished, well-heeled trail town with grocery stores, restaurants, and lodging galore. From here the AT climbs in earnest into the Berkshires, weaving through wooded ridgelines and past ponds with rolling hill views opening up along the way.

Further north, the trail crosses 42.288887-73.15721564 I-90 Crossing (mi 1555), about five miles from Lee (Massachusetts). It takes a hitch or shuttle to get there, but Lee rewards the effort with a solid range of stores and services for hikers needing a fuller resupply.

The trail then settles into classic New England woodland before delivering hikers straight into 42.473611-73.16666765 Dalton (Massachusetts) (mi 1574), a longtime favorite among thru-hikers and an officially recognized Appalachian Trail Community. Dalton's small-town hospitality — free showers at the rec center, a friendly welcome, easy access to a hot meal — makes it one of the more memorable stops on this stretch, and nearby Pittsfield fills in the gaps with larger-scale resupply options.

A few miles on, the trail passes through 42.561944-73.16333366 Cheshire (Massachusetts) (mi 1582), a small town with New England charm but limited services — hikers needing a full restock are better off planning ahead or leaning on nearby Pittsfield or Dalton. From Cheshire, the trail begins its steady climb toward the roof of the state: Mount Greylock, at 3,491 feet the highest point in Massachusetts, with views said to have inspired Herman Melville while he wrote Moby-Dick, and on a clear day stretching up to 90 miles across the Berkshire landscape.

Beyond Greylock, hikers reach 42.699919-73.1556967 MA 2 Crossing (mi 1597). From here, it's a hitch west into Williamstown, home to Williams College and a lively downtown, or a stop in North Adams for a last round of services before the trail climbs into Vermont and the Green Mountains beyond.

Vermont

 150 mi

Crossing into Vermont, the Appalachian Trail climbs into the Green Mountains and settles into a rhythm of dense hardwood forest, steady climbs, and ridgeline views — along with a well-earned reputation for mud. Vermont's trail conditions are famously smooth and spongy compared to the mid-Atlantic and southern New England, a welcome respite for northbound hikers, though the wet, muddy tread has earned the trail the nickname "Ver-mud" among thru-hikers. For nearly 100 miles, the AT shares its footpath with the Long Trail — the oldest long-distance hiking trail in the United States, built by the Green Mountain Club between 1910 and 1930, and the very trail that inspired the Appalachian Trail's creation — before the two finally part ways near Maine Junction. Twenty-nine shelters line this stretch, spaced an average of 5.2 miles apart, giving hikers plenty of dry (if sometimes crowded) places to wait out the weather.

The Vermont section opens at 42.884704-73.11608868 Appalachian Trail Route 9 Trailhead (mi 1616), where a 3.4-mile side trip leads to Bennington. With grocery stores, lodging, and restaurants, Bennington makes a solid first stop for hikers settling into their new state.

From there, the trail climbs through forested ridges and the occasional wide-open view on its way toward 43.207174-72.97016269 VT-30 Crossing (mi 1656), about 5.4 miles from Manchester (Vermont). Manchester's polished town services and well-stocked outdoor shops make it a favorite spot to swap out worn gear or simply take a day off before pressing on.

Further north, 43.521223-72.9254270 Clarendon Gorge Trailhead (mi 1706) opens the door to Rutland (Vermont), one of the best-supplied trail towns in the state, with everything hikers need to rest up before the trail turns toward central Vermont. Just a few miles beyond, the trail brushes past 43.664722-72.79333371 Killington (mi 1709), only 0.6 miles off the footpath. Killington marks the first time the AT climbs above 4,000 feet since Tennessee — a quiet reminder that the terrain ahead, through the White Mountains and Maine's Hundred-Mile Wilderness, is only going to get bigger. Its easy access makes it a convenient stop for hikers who'd rather not gamble on a long hitch.

It's here, just north of town, that the AT and Long Trail finally go their separate ways: at Maine Junction, north of Killington, the Long Trail continues north while the Appalachian Trail turns east toward New Hampshire. The remaining miles across Vermont trade the Green Mountains' bigger climbs for gentler, lower-elevation terrain — one last easy stretch before the trail runs headlong into the Whites.

New Hampshire

 161 mi

After the gentle farewell of the Connecticut River Valley, the trail steadily steepens, building toward the White Mountain National Forest, where the AT reveals its most demanding face: knife-edge ridges, alpine weather that can turn in minutes, and views so vast they make the climbing feel worth it. This is widely regarded as the toughest stretch on the entire Appalachian Trail — and one of its most unforgettable. Twenty-five shelters dot the route, spaced an average of 6.4 miles apart, though in the Whites the miles between them are some of the slowest and hardest-won on the trail.

The state begins gently enough at 43.7-72.28333372 Hanover (New Hampshire) (mi 1751), where the trail crosses the Connecticut River straight into the heart of a lively college town. Dartmouth's campus, good food, and easy resupply make Hanover one of the most welcoming stops on the entire AT — a fitting last comfort before the mountains ahead. North of town, the trail quickly shakes off civilization and returns to the woods, with free camping available near the trailhead for hikers not quite ready to spend on a room.

Further along, the trail offers a choice of towns: 44.030278-71.68583373 North Woodstock (New Hampshire) (mi 1806) or 44.045-71.670674 Lincoln (New Hampshire) (mi 1822). North Woodstock's charm centers on 44.029595-71.70565975 The Notch Hostel, a favorite last-bed-before-the-Whites stop for many hikers, while Lincoln offers Chet's Place alongside a fuller range of food, lodging, and resupply. Both towns serve the same purpose: a final chance to rest and restock before the trail turns serious.

And serious it gets. Beyond Lincoln, the AT climbs into the heart of the White Mountains, where the trail traverses Franconia Ridge's exposed, above-treeline spine, threads past a chain of AMC backcountry huts, and eventually confronts the Presidential Range and the notoriously fierce weather of Mount Washington — conditions that have humbled hikers in every month of the year. It's a section that rewards preparation and punishes complacency in equal measure.

Eventually the ridgelines give way to descent, and hikers reach 44.257506-71.25301876 Pinkham Notch Trailhead (mi 1876) and, further on, 44.400859-71.10952677 Battle River Trailhead (mi 1898), both gateways to Gorham (New Hampshire). Gorham is the last major trail town in New Hampshire — a full-service stop with lodging, restaurants, and outfitters — and for many hikers, the place to catch their breath before the Whites give way to the wilds of Maine.

Maine

 281 mi

For northbound hikers, Maine is the final act — and the hardest one. This is where the Appalachian Trail sheds any pretense of gentleness: steep climbs, remote ponds ringed by spruce, river fords, and roots and rocks that seem designed to test tired legs one last time. And yet it rewards every bit of effort. Wild lakes mirror the sky, open summits stretch for miles, and the trail builds, mile by mile, toward the mountain that has haunted hikers' thoughts since Georgia: Katahdin. Along the way, 34 shelters break up the wilderness, spaced an average of 8.3 miles apart — plan accordingly, because in Maine, the gaps between them can feel long.

The journey begins at 44.667796-70.89295178 Black Brook Trailhead (mi 1948), where a side trail leads about 8 miles to Andover (Maine). After the brutal transition out of New Hampshire, Andover is a welcome first taste of Maine hospitality — a place to resupply, sleep in a real bed, and let sore muscles recover before pressing on.

From there, the trail threads past a string of small towns that punctuate the wilderness. About 9 miles east of 44.887007-70.5404979 ME 17 Crossing (mi 1975) sits Rangeley, Maine, with its lodging, restaurants, and resupply options — a worthwhile detour for hikers craving a hot meal. Push on and you'll reach 45.10343-70.356780 ME 27 Crossing (mi 2007), about 4.5 miles south of Stratton, another key waypoint for supplies. Then the trail delivers hikers directly into 45.233889-69.9981 Caratunk (Maine) (mi 2044), a tiny village perched near the Kennebec River — memorable less for its size than for the ferry crossing that awaits just beyond it.

By the time hikers reach 45.286944-69.50111182 Monson (mi 2077), the mood shifts. This is the last real trail town before the Hundred-Mile Wilderness, the most remote and one of the most challenging sections of the entire Appalachian Trail, and most hikers treat it as a final staging ground — loading up on food at Shaw's Hiker Hostel and mentally preparing for days without services.

What follows is a stretch unlike anything else on the AT: dense forest, remote ponds, and a solitude that Benton MacKaye himself envisioned when he dreamed up the trail. Then, at last, the trees part at 45.835418-68.96520383 Abol Bridge Campground & Store (mi 2180), where the trail crosses the Golden Road and Katahdin comes into full view for the first time — an emotional moment for many after such a long journey. From here, a hitch or shuttle carries hikers into Millinocket, the traditional last-supplies stop before the final push.

The trail's closing chapter unfolds inside Baxter State Park, climbing steadily toward 45.904356-68.92127584 Mt. Katahdin (mi 2198), the AT's northern terminus. It is a fitting finale: a steep, rocky, wind-exposed scramble up one of the most iconic summits in the eastern United States, where northbound hikers finally stand atop the mountain that has drawn them more than 2,000 miles from Georgia.

While the AT is well-established and relatively close to civilization, it still presents serious risks, especially in its more remote stretches. Proper planning, awareness of seasonal hazards, and respect for the terrain are essential. Learn how to prevent common issues like hypothermia, dehydration, and encounters with wildlife. Always inform someone of your itinerary and expected return time. Use trail registers at the start and end of remote sections to help ensure your movements are documented.

More detailed general safety tips can be found in the Wilderness backpacking section.

Recklessness and lack of preparation can turn a rewarding journey into a dangerous situation. Hike smart, know your limits, and be ready for changing conditions.

• Dehydration - Even in humid forests, strenuous hiking can cause rapid fluid loss. Refill at known water sources and carry a filter or treatment system.
• Giardia - Streams may look pristine but can carry ‘‘Giardia’’ parasites. Always treat or filter water from natural sources.
• Hypothermia - Sudden weather shifts, especially at elevation or in early spring and late fall, can be dangerous. Dress in layers and avoid cotton.
• Heat exhaustion - Summer in the southern states can bring oppressive heat and humidity. Rest often, stay shaded, and drink regularly.
• Ticks and Lyme disease - Common in the mid-Atlantic and Northeast. Use repellents, wear long sleeves, and do daily tick checks.
• Bears - Black bears are present, particularly in the Smokies. Store food properly using bear cables or canisters and never keep food in your tent.
• Poison ivy - Learn to identify it (“leaves of three, let it be”) and avoid contact. Wash thoroughly if exposed.
• Sunburn - Even under tree cover, prolonged exposure can lead to sunburn. Use sunscreen and wear a hat.
• Know your 10 essentials when heading out, especially since cell coverage is often unreliable.

1. Navigation
2. Hydration & Nutrition
3. Pocket Knife
4. Sun Protection
5. Insulation
6. Fire
7. Lighting
8. First Aid
9. Shelter
10. Whistle

• International Appalachian Trail - The International Appalachian Trail (IAT) is an extension of the Appalachian Trail that continues from Maine into Canada, passing through New Brunswick, Quebec, and Newfoundland & Labrador.