Appalachian Trail - Thru Hiking ME to GA

JustaSupportGuy · 10-22-2011, 20:49

Upon completion of a upcoming rotation to ASTAN, I will be parting ways with the Army. My next big adventure will be taking me from Maine to Georgia on the Appalachian Trail. This is an estimated 167 day trip, which I hope to cut down to 150 with any luck.

I'm a active hiker, but only on weekends. I need some advice from anyone who has done long distance hikes. Any suggestions on gear such as boots, tent, pack... whatever advice you have would be helpful.

I have read many articles on this subject but I'm looking to get opinions from others that can explain their reasoning for the choice of gear they use.

Thanks in advance for your input. Also the time-frame for this hike will be as follows: Leaving Maine in the first week of June and arriving in Georgia mid-late October.

**Pete** · 11-06-2011, 16:15

Just did a 24 mile section this past weekend - Dennis Cove to Hwy 19E.

I'll admit, Saturday kicked my butt.

The trail is well marked and easy to stay on - but intersections to side trails are not. The leaves on the side trails are not mashed down right now so it's easy to blow past a tree with a small blue mark. The Thru Hiker's Companion is well worth the money. Pre plan, employ jump boxes for changing out gear if need be - Oh, heck read the book

Saw three southbound thru hikers this weekend. They were averaging 25 miles a day and had about 400 miles to go. Man, they moved like they had no ruck on their back at all. I asked "Pinch" about the cold weather. He said he'd picked up his cold weather gear a while back - Dude, the guys pack was no bigger than an assault pack. Damn, where was he hiding everything?

The A/T ain't humpin' a large ALICE pack. Quality, lightweight gear - and get in shape.

Good luck.

mark46th · 11-07-2011, 09:08

The best book I have read on preparing for the Appalachian Trail is "A Walk in the Wood's" by Bill Bryson....

Buffalobob · 11-08-2011, 14:08

In the W Va and Md section, the trail is well marked and water and huts are available. On weekends during the summer the trail will be well populated.

JoeEOD · 11-08-2011, 18:15

I live in central Vermont near the AT. Give me a heads up on your schedule and I can meet you for a re-supply drop or a hot shower.

PedOncoDoc · 11-08-2011, 18:40

Quote:

Originally Posted by JoeEOD

I live in central Vermont near the AT. Give me a heads up on your schedule and I can meet you for a re-supply drop or a hot shower.

Hopefully you won't get offended if he turns you down on the offer to meet him for a hot shower.

In all seriousness - one of the things I've come to appreciate about this forum is the willingness of members to help each other both online and in person.