Springer Mountain → Mount Katahdin
Prepared for THEMAN
Hurricane Helene (September 2024) caused significant infrastructure damage in North Carolina and Tennessee. Trail conditions differ from pre-2024 guidebooks.
1. Nolichucky River Crossing (TN/NC Border - Mile ~350)
2. Iron Mountain Gap Area (Near Roan Highlands - Mile ~360-365)
3. General Trail Conditions (Georgia → Virginia)
This addendum reflects conditions as of January 2025. Trail restoration is ongoing.
Springer Mountain, Georgia to Mount Katahdin, Maine 2,197.9 Miles of Trail-Tested Knowledge February Start Edition
Prepared by: Theman Based on 840+ Miles of Thru-Hiking Experience
This guide represents hundreds of hours of research, planning, and real-world trail experience distilled into a single comprehensive resource. It is not a theoretical exercise—it is a battle-tested system built on 840+ miles of completed thru-hikes across three major trail systems, earning the rare Sassafras Award from the Ozark Society.
The Appalachian Trail demands respect. It is 2,197.9 miles of variable terrain, unpredictable weather, and constant decision-making. Success requires more than fitness—it requires systems, knowledge, and the discipline to apply both consistently.
This guide is organized by system rather than chronology. Each chapter addresses a critical aspect of thru-hiking and provides both the reasoning behind decisions and the specific protocols to follow. Read it before your hike, reference it during planning, and carry the key sections digitally for field use.
“The hikers who finish are not the strongest—they are the ones who listen, adapt, and stay patient.”
This section documents verified long-distance completions, prior AT experience, and the skills that directly translate to Appalachian Trail readiness.
| Trail | Distance | Elevation Gain | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ouachita Trail | ~223 miles | ~45,000 ft | Arkansas-Oklahoma |
| Ozark Highlands Trail | ~270 miles | ~35,000-40,000 ft | Northern Arkansas |
| Ozark Trail | ~230 miles | ~40,000 ft | Missouri |
Total Completed Mileage: ~720+ miles
Estimated Cumulative Elevation Gain: ~120,000+ feet
Sassafras Award — Ozark Society
Awarded for completion of the Ouachita Trail, Ozark Highlands Trail, and Ozark Trail. 6th person in history to receive this award.
Note: Clingmans Dome was officially renamed to “Kuwohi” in 2024, restoring its Cherokee name meaning “mulberry place.”
Pikes Peak, Colorado — Crags Trail
~13 miles round trip | ~4,300 ft elevation gain | Summit elevation: 14,115 ft
Note: Pikes Peak is located in Colorado, not on the Appalachian Trail. This entry is included as a cardiovascular and altitude benchmark demonstrating capability for AT climbs.
| Section | Distance | Conditions | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standing Bear Farm → Hot Springs, NC | ~33 miles | Winter, ~35 lb pack | Snowbird Mountain, High difficulty |
| Newfound Gap ↔ Kuwohi | ~15.6 miles RT | ~17°F, winter Smokies | Entirely high-altitude AT miles |
TOTAL AT MILES HIKED: ~49 miles ✅
These are hard miles, not summer or low-grade terrain.
Crags Trail → Summit
What This Proves:
Note: This benchmark is for fitness comparison only—Pikes Peak is not on the Appalachian Trail.
Most hikers learn these lessons in the first 200 miles. You already own them.
| Category | Score | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Physical Readiness | 9/10 | Long climbs proven, cold conditions proven |
| Mental Readiness | 10/10 | You’ve already hiked when it sucked, you know when to back off |
| Logistics Readiness | 8.5/10 | Trail rhythm still develops on-trail |
| OVERALL NOBO READINESS | 9/10 |
If wind >30 mph or ice on rock: → Delay or bail
| Peak | Start Elevation | Summit | Net Gain |
|---|---|---|---|
| Springer Mountain | ~3,200 ft | 3,782 ft | ~580 ft |
| Blood Mountain | ~3,100 ft (Neels Gap) | 4,458 ft | ~1,350 ft |
| Peak | Start Elevation | Summit | Net Gain |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standing Indian Mountain | ~3,500 ft | 5,499 ft | ~2,000 ft |
| Wayah Bald | ~3,800 ft | 5,342 ft | ~1,540 ft |
| Cheoah Bald | ~1,700 ft | 5,062 ft | ~3,300 ft |
| Kuwohi (Clingmans Dome) | ~5,000 ft | 6,643 ft | ~1,640 ft |
| Snowbird Mountain ✓ | ~2,200 ft | ~4,260 ft | ~2,060 ft |
| Peak | Start Elevation | Summit | Net Gain |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mount Rogers Area | ~4,000 ft | 5,729 ft | ~1,700 ft |
| The Priest | ~650 ft | 4,063 ft | ~3,400 ft |
| Three Ridges | ~1,500 ft | ~3,970 ft | ~2,470 ft |
| Peak | Start Elevation | Summit | Net Gain |
|---|---|---|---|
| Blue Mountain (PA) | ~800 ft | ~2,300 ft | ~1,500 ft |
| Peak | Start Elevation | Summit | Net Gain |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mount Greylock | ~1,800 ft | 3,491 ft | ~1,700 ft |
| Mount Moosilauke | ~2,000 ft | 4,802 ft | ~2,800 ft |
| Franconia Ridge (Mt. Lafayette) | ~3,000 ft | 5,249 ft | ~2,250 ft |
| Mount Washington | ~2,400 ft | 6,288 ft | ~3,900 ft |
| Peak | Start Elevation | Summit | Net Gain |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bigelow Range | ~1,300 ft | 4,145 ft | ~2,800 ft |
| Mount Katahdin | ~1,200 ft | 5,269 ft | ~4,000 ft |
TIER 1 — LEGENDARY
TIER 2 — MAJOR GRINDERS
TIER 3 — HARD BUT MANAGEABLE
Temperature Lapse Rates by Condition:
Use worst-case for safety planning on exposed ridges and balds.
| Wind Speed | Feels Like |
|---|---|
| 10 mph | ~9°F colder |
| 20 mph | ~15°F colder |
| 30 mph | ~19°F colder |
| 40+ mph | ~22°F+ colder |
| Month | Region | Conditions | Risk Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| February | GA → Southern NC | Cold, ice risk, short daylight | Moderate-High |
| March | Smokies | High elevation, severe wind chill | High |
| April | NC → VA | Wet, improving temps | Moderate |
| May | Central VA | Heat + steep climbs | Moderate |
| June | Shenandoahs → PA | Rocks, fatigue | Low-Moderate |
| July | NY → VT | Heat, storms, mud | Moderate |
| August | Whites (NH) | Exposure, extreme weather | Very High |
| September | Maine | Cold, wet rock, fatigue | High |
Base weight is the foundation of sustainable long-distance hiking. Every ounce carried compounds over thousands of miles into joint stress, fatigue, and potential injury. However, ultralight ideology taken too far sacrifices sleep quality, safety, and morale—the very things that enable trail completion.
This gear system prioritizes:
| Item | Weight |
|---|---|
| Osprey Atmos AG LT 50 | 67.0 oz |
| 8L Dry Bags (4 total: clothes, sleep system x2, misc) | 8.8 oz |
| Item | Weight |
|---|---|
| Durston 1+ Tent (body + fly + poles) | 36.8 oz |
| Tent stakes (10) | 3.5 oz |
| Guylines | 2.5 oz |
| Item | Weight |
|---|---|
| Zenbivy 10° Down Quilt | 29.5 oz |
| Zenbivy Down Sheet | 19.0 oz |
| Sleeping Pad (R ≈ 8) | 25.0 oz |
| Pillow (inflatable) | 3.0 oz |
Note: The Zenbivy Down Sheet is required as part of the integrated Zenbivy sleep system - it works with the quilt to provide draft protection and complete the footbox design.
| Item | Weight |
|---|---|
| Smartwool Merino 250 Sleep Top | 8.5 oz |
| Smartwool Merino 250 Sleep Pants | 8.7 oz |
| Sleep Socks | 3.7 oz |
| Short-Sleeve Shirt (lightweight synthetic) | 6.0 oz |
| Sun Hoodie (long-sleeve) | 7.0 oz |
| Mountain Hardwear Down Puffy | 8.5 oz |
| Outdoor Research Rain Jacket | 12.9 oz |
| Item | Weight |
|---|---|
| Rab Tights | 8.0 oz |
| Rab Proflex Rain Pants | 11.6 oz |
| Rab Alpha Freak (Polartec Alpha Direct) | 12.7 oz |
| Smartwool Hiking Socks | 3.7 oz |
| Underwear | 3.2 oz |
| Buff | 2.3 oz |
| Liner Gloves | 1.5 oz |
| Waterproof Shell Mitts | 1.0 oz |
| Gaiters | 2.0 oz |
| Smartwool Merino 150 Beanie | 0.6 oz |
| Ball Cap | 2.0 oz |
| Apple Watch Ultra + charging cable | 2.4 oz |
| Item | Weight |
|---|---|
| Stove | 3.0 oz |
| TOAKS 750ml Titanium Cup | 3.6 oz |
| Cup Lid | 0.9 oz |
| Spoon | 1.6 oz |
| Fuel Canister (full) | 7.0 oz |
| Lighter + Backup | 0.8 oz |
Note: True minimalist system - TOAKS cup serves as both cooking vessel and eating vessel. No separate cook pot carried.
| Item | Weight |
|---|---|
| iPhone | 7.9 oz |
| Anker Nano Power Bank 20K (20,000 mAh) | 11.0 oz |
| Nitecore NB10000 Gen 3 (10,000 mAh) | 5.3 oz |
| UGREEN Nexode 65W GaN Charger (3-port) | 4.5 oz |
| Garmin inReach Mini 2 | 3.5 oz |
| Ray-Ban Meta Gen 2 Smart Glasses + Case | 6.4 oz |
| Headlamp | 1.5 oz |
Note: Ray-Ban Meta glasses tested and confirmed functional in freezing temperatures for winter content creation.
Total Battery Capacity: 30,000 mAh (20k + 10k)
Charging Strategy: Both batteries charge overnight during zero days (every 6 days). Anker Nano has built-in USB-C cable; Nitecore NB10000 also has built-in cable.
Advantage: Dual battery system provides redundancy and 30k mAh total capacity - sufficient for 5-day stretches with Ray-Ban Meta content creation.
| Item | Weight |
|---|---|
| Knife | 4.5 oz |
| BeFree 1L Water Filter | 2.3 oz |
| Microspikes - Kahtoola (winter only) | 11.9 oz |
| Xero Z-Trail Sandals (camp shoes) | 7.0 oz |
| Opsack 12L (odor-proof food bag) | 0.5 oz |
| Item | Weight |
|---|---|
| First aid kit (emergency blanket, tape, bandages, bandaids, Advil, ankle brace) | 4.5 oz |
| Item | Weight |
|---|---|
| Toothpaste (travel size) | 1.0 oz |
| Toothbrush (cut handle) | 0.3 oz |
| Dr. Bronner’s soap (2 oz) | 2.0 oz |
| Hand sanitizer (2 oz) | 2.0 oz |
| Toiletries bag | 0.5 oz |
| Item | Weight |
|---|---|
| Trekking Poles (pair) | 18.0 oz |
| Bauerfeind Hinged Knee Brace | 10.6 oz |
After Microspikes Drop (Hot Springs, NC - Mile 274):
Recent Updates:
This gear system is designed to evolve with trail conditions. Carrying winter gear through summer is unnecessary weight; arriving in the Whites without proper equipment is dangerous.
Items Dropped:
Changes Made:
Rationale: Elevation drops after Hot Springs. Freeze-thaw risk largely ends. Filter freeze risk becomes manageable. Ice/snow risk ends.
Items Dropped:
Items Added/Switched:
Net Weight Savings: 66.2 oz (4.14 lb)
Post-Damascus Base Weight:
Rationale:
Summer Strategy Notes (Miles 469+):
Phase 1: Winter Survival (Miles 0-274)
Phase 2: Spring Transition (Miles 274-469)
Phase 3: Summer Lightweight (Miles 469+)
Total Weight Reduction: 4.88 lb (21.49 → 16.61 lb base weight)
This represents a 24% reduction in base weight from winter to summer configuration, achieved through strategic gear transitions rather than compromising safety or comfort. The Hyperlite Southwest’s waterproof Dyneema construction eliminates the need for a pack liner while saving 2.38 lb compared to the Osprey Atmos.
Weight reduction is achieved through discipline and redundancy removal—not by sacrificing sleep, safety, or morale.
Electronics creep is the single biggest silent weight problem for experienced hikers.
Expected Savings: 6-10 oz
Cut clothing that doesn’t get used, not insulation.
Expected Savings: 8-16 oz
Expected Savings: 4-8 oz
Repackage into 3-5 day amounts: toothpaste, soap, sunscreen, wet wipes, meds.
Rule: Refill in town. Do not carry fear weight.
Expected Savings: 6-10 oz
Rule: If unused for 7 trail days, it goes in a hiker box.
Expected Savings: 4-6 oz
Primary role: Primary hiking shirt for all conditions
Secondary: Sun protection, base layer under Alpha Freak in cold
Purpose: Moisture wicking, sun protection, base warmth layer
Primary role: Sleep + camp
Secondary: Rare, brief emergency daytime use only
Purpose: Warmth while moving, breathable insulation, primary hiking warmth layer in cold conditions
Purpose: Wind and precipitation protection. Critical on ridges and during stops.
Purpose: Camp warmth. Emergency heat retention. Not used while hiking except in emergencies.
| Conditions | Layers |
|---|---|
| 60°F+, Moving/Dry | Short-sleeve shirt or sun hoodie, tights or tights + rain pants if windy |
| 45-60°F, Moving/Dry | Sun hoodie, tights or tights + rain pants if windy |
| 35-45°F, Moving/Dry | Sun hoodie + Alpha Freak, tights + rain pants, Buff optional |
| 25-35°F, Moving/Dry | Sun hoodie + Alpha Freak, tights + rain pants, Buff, shell for wind only |
| 20-30°F, Moving/Snow/Wind | Sun hoodie + Alpha Freak + shell, tights + rain pants, Buff, gloves |
| Camp/Static (Any Temp) | Down puffy ON immediately, shell over puffy if windy, never rely on Alpha for static warmth |
| Sleep (Every Night) | Smartwool 250 sleep top and pants, dry socks, puffy inside quilt if temps drop |
Never hike in the down puffy.
These definitions are fixed and used consistently throughout this plan.
Purpose: Moisture management, sleep insulation, odor control
Purpose: Warmth while moving, breathable insulation, primary hiking warmth layer in cold conditions
Purpose: Wind protection, rain/snow/sleet protection, critical on ridges and during stops
Purpose: Camp warmth, emergency heat retention, not used while hiking except in emergencies
Purpose: Prevent convective heat loss, wind protection on ridges, sleep system efficiency, cold rain and snow protection
Cold may be felt, but it can always be managed. There is nothing missing that would prevent warmth or safety.
At this point:
Stop buying gear. This system is complete.
Primary: Hollow-fiber filter (BeFree or Platypus QuickDraw class)
Backup: Chlorine dioxide tablets
Potable Aqua — Chlorine Dioxide Water Purification Tablets
Scoop water into dirty bottle or bag. Choose clearest source available.
Filter into 1L Smartwater bottle. Removes sediment, improves taste. Water is NOT virus-safe yet.
Drop 1 chlorine dioxide tablet into bottle. Cap and gently shake.
Water is now safe from bacteria, viruses, and protozoa.
Liquids and lithium sleep with you.
Put these inside your sleeping bag every night:
After using the filter:
Insulation without heat always loses overnight.
Reliable = dependable flow, not sterile water.
All listed sources:
For all listed reliable sources:
Treatment is assumed every time.
Reassess or skip a listed source if you see:
If that happens:
These situations are rare — but judgment still applies.
| Source | Status |
|---|---|
| Listed source + treatment | 🟢 Safe to use |
| Listed source + visual red flags | 🟡 Reassess / walk upstream |
| Unlisted water (puddles, runoff, ponds) | 🔴 Treatment alone is not a guarantee |
This is the most water-abundant section of the trail.
Filter or drops work well. Filter + drops is ideal.
Use full treatment protocol.
Treatment does not make these safe.
When you hesitate at a source, ask:
If any answer is wrong, treatment alone is not enough.
If forced:
This reduces risk — it does not erase it.
| Season | Conditions |
|---|---|
| Winter | Fewer visible sources, cleaner water, lower biological risk |
| Summer | More water, higher contamination risk, be more selective |
1 liter works when:
Break the rule intentionally when:
Carrying extra temporarily is smart, not failure.
Distance: ~33 miles
Mile ~241 to ~274
Standing Bear Farm Hostel (Mile ~241)
Groundhog Creek (Mile ~248)
Deer Park Mountain Shelter — Little Laurel Creek (Mile ~268-269)
Note: Little Laurel Creek is the creek beside Deer Park Shelter — many hikers never hear the name, they just know the water.
Hot Springs, NC (Mile ~274)
Garenflo Gap Area Spring (Mile ~244)
Max Patch Area Springs (Mile ~250)
Walnut Mountain Shelter Spring (Mile ~255)
Bluff Mountain Area Seeps (Mile ~260)
AWOL marks water based on:
AWOL does not account for:
AWOL water icons mean: “This source exists sometimes.”
They do not mean: “You can rely on this today.”
The truth:
Why FarOut is better:
Why FarOut still fails:
How to use FarOut correctly:
You followed these instincts naturally — that’s experienced hiker behavior.
Go to a shelter if ANY ONE of the following is true:
Automatic shelter night. No debate.
Shelter reduces complexity when judgment is compromised.
Tent handles those conditions fine.
Blood Mountain (Georgia)
Snowbird / Walnut / Max Patch (NC)
Bottom line: Blood Mountain is not taller, but it hits harder sooner. You already handled equal or harder terrain in NC.
Score each category 0-2. Total possible: 10 points.
Interpretation:
Ask: “Will this still work if conditions worsen at 3 a.m.?”
Hope is not a winter strategy.
Before committing to camp, ask:
If any answer feels shaky, shelter is the correct call.
Once shelter is chosen, you switch modes.
Keep with you:
Never leave loose:
Worst-case planning: 5.5°F colder per 1,000 feet of elevation gain
This represents dry air, strong mixing, and cold-biased conditions.
If 30°F in Hot Springs:
At 12°F air temperature:
| Wind Speed | Feels Like |
|---|---|
| 5 mph | ~4°F |
| 10 mph | ~-1°F |
| 15 mph | ~-4°F |
| 20 mph | ~-6°F |
When you’re hiking and checking a town forecast:
If you plan for this document’s numbers:
This is exactly how experienced winter and shoulder-season AT hikers think.
Start Date: February 1
Direction: Northbound (NOBO)
Daily Pace: 8-10 miles per hiking day
Realistic Calendar Pace: ~7-8 trail miles/day including zero/nero days
Heat Onset Zone
Calendar Timing (Feb 1 Start)
Conditions You’ll Notice:
Bottom Line: You begin actively managing heat in late April, and by early May, summer conditions are established.
Peak Heat & Humidity Zone
Calendar Timing:
Typical Conditions:
This is the most demanding heat stretch of the entire trail. Success here depends on discipline: early starts, consistent hydration, electrolytes, shade management, and controlled pacing.
Heat Taper Zone
Calendar Timing:
What Improves:
Heat does not disappear entirely, but it is no longer the dominant challenge.
| Phase | Mile Markers | Approximate Dates |
|---|---|---|
| Heat begins | 600-700 | April 20 - May 10 |
| Worst heat | 900-1450 | Late May - Early August |
| Heat eases | 1550-1750 | Mid - Late August |
Step 1: Pitch tent FIRST (wet phase)
Pitch immediately on arrival. Do NOT open dry bags.
Step 2: Cook & Eat (wet phase)
Cook outside or at vestibule edge. Rain gear stays ON.
Step 3: Bear Hang IMMEDIATELY (wet phase)
Do not enter tent before this step.
Step 4: Dry Phase Transition (inside tent)
If you forgot something outside — it waits.
You only endure the wet once per cycle.
| Wind Speed | Action |
|---|---|
| 0–10 mph (light) | Shelter or tent OK |
| 10–20 mph (moderate) | Lean TENT; shelter only if deep woods and calm interior |
| 20–30 mph (strong) | TENT ONLY — Below ridges, protected terrain |
| 30+ mph (severe) | Immediate protected site, tight low pitch, drop elevation if possible |
Wind + rain = tent every time.
If wind accelerates as you walk — don’t camp there.
Point the NARROW end of the tent INTO the wind.
Think aircraft nose, not billboard.
| Conditions | Stakes |
|---|---|
| Calm | 6 |
| Moderate wind | 8 |
| Strong/gusty wind | 10–12 (use ALL guy points) |
Angle stakes ~30–45° AWAY from the tent, aligned with the direction of pull.
In wind:
Noise means movement. Movement means cold.
High wind = LOW pitch
Venting:
If stakes won’t hold:
Weight + angle beats soil quality.
Before dry phase:
Wind usually increases overnight.
Using Apple Watch Ultra + Garmin inReach Mini 2 without internet.
You NEVER evaluate pressure while hiking. You ONLY evaluate pressure while STOPPED.
Trail elevation changes while hiking are meaningless for weather detection. Elevation drift while stationary = pressure change.
| Pattern | Interpretation |
|---|---|
| Elevation fluctuates ±3-5 ft, settles quickly | Normal/Stable — Pressure stable, weather stable |
| Elevation drops 10-20 ft over 3-6 hours without moving | Caution — Weather likely in 12-24 hours |
| Elevation drops 20-30+ ft in 1-3 hours | Danger — Weather imminent, adjust plans immediately |
If ANY TWO occur together, act conservatively:
3 to 5 days of food
This is the dominant norm across the entire trail.
Early Trail (Georgia through Southern NC)
Mid-Trail and Later
Exceptions only. Primarily the 100-Mile Wilderness in Maine.
Nothing is tied to the tree.
Bears follow scent plumes. Odor reduction reduces investigation time.
Layer 1: Individual food packaging
Layer 2: Odor-resistant liner (all smellables together)
Layer 3: Outer bear hang sack (slick, strong)
Layer 4: Rope + carabiner + toggle
All of it goes inside the liner.
Loose = odor leaks faster.
Key Rule: Seasoning goes in AFTER soaking, not before.
Chicken broth + peanut butter does NOT taste good.
Best Method: Noodles + Peanut Butter Only
Partial day in town:
Full 24 hours off trail:
Never hike more than 5 days without a zero.
Georgia → Southern NC | Target: 8-9 miles/hiking day
Cold weather, short daylight, cautious movement. Body-preservation phase.
NC/TN → Virginia | Target: 10-11 miles/hiking day
Virginia | Target: 12-13 miles/hiking day
Schedule debt gets paid back—without breaking food limits.
NY → VT → NH | Target: 13-14 miles/hiking day
NH → Katahdin | Target: 11-12 miles/hiking day
Maine terrain is slower; final push is realistic and safe.
Expected Finish: September 17-20
The final 400+ miles (White Mountains → Katahdin) require different planning than the rest of the trail.
What You Need to Know:
Action: Research AMC huts before entering Whites. Decide: pay, work-for-stay attempt, or tent/stealth.
Reality: Katahdin summit attempts can be delayed by weather (wind, rain, lightning).
The Problem:
Your Bail Plan:
Action: Arrive at Katahdin with flexible timeline, not a hard deadline.
What You Need to Know:
Action: Research Baxter permit requirements in August. Book Katahdin Stream Campground or have backup plan.
The Reality:
Planning:
Action: Plan 100-Mile food carry in Monson. Consider White’s Crossing resupply if you want to split the carry.
By the time you reach the Whites, you’ve hiked 1,700+ miles. Fatigue is real.
Common Late-Trail Mistakes:
Strategy:
Legend:
Walking Distance: ≤2 miles from trail
Amicalola Falls State Park (Mile 0)
Neels Gap / Mountain Crossings (Mile ~31)
Hiawassee, GA (Mile ~69 via Dick’s Creek Gap)
NOC - Nantahala Outdoor Center (Mile ~137)
Fontana Dam / Fontana Village (Mile ~165)
Gatlinburg, TN (Mile ~200 from Newfound Gap)
Standing Bear Farm (Mile ~241)
Hot Springs, NC (Mile ~274)
Erwin, TN (Mile ~342)
Roan Mountain, TN (Mile ~365 via US-19E)
Damascus, VA (Mile ~469)
Marion, VA (Mile ~500 from Atkins)
Bland, VA (Mile ~508)
Bastian, VA (Mile ~517)
Pearisburg, VA (Mile ~635)
Catawba, VA (Mile ~690)
Daleville, VA (Mile ~729)
Glasgow, VA (Mile ~783 via VA-60)
Waynesboro, VA (Mile ~880 from Rockfish Gap)
SHENANDOAH NATIONAL PARK (Mile ~880-1,000)
Front Royal, VA (Mile ~999)
Harpers Ferry, WV (Mile ~1,024)
Pine Grove Furnace State Park (Mile ~1,103)
Boiling Springs, PA (Mile ~1,136)
Duncannon, PA (Mile ~1,149)
Port Clinton, PA (Mile ~1,217)
Palmerton, PA (Mile ~1,278)
Delaware Water Gap, PA (Mile ~1,298)
Unionville, NY (Mile ~1,342 via NJ-284)
Greenwood Lake, NY (Mile ~1,359 via NY-17A)
Fort Montgomery / Bear Mountain, NY (Mile ~1,410)
Kent, CT (Mile ~1,469)
Great Barrington, MA (Mile ~1,538)
Dalton, MA (Mile ~1,570)
North Adams, MA (Mile ~1,590 via MA-2)
Bennington, VT (Mile ~1,606 via VT-9)
Manchester Center, VT (Mile ~1,645 via VT-11/30)
Killington, VT (Mile ~1,700 via US-4)
Hanover, NH (Mile ~1,747)
Glencliff, NH (Mile ~1,804 via NH-25)
Lincoln, NH / Woodstock, NH (Mile ~1,823 via NH-112)
Franconia Notch (Mile ~1,832)
Crawford Notch (Mile ~1,869 via US-302)
Pinkham Notch (Mile ~1,888 via NH-16)
Gorham, NH (Mile ~1,898 via NH-16)
Andover, ME (Mile ~1,975 via ME-5)
Rangeley, ME (Mile ~2,001 via ME-4)
Stratton, ME (Mile ~2,031 via ME-27)
Caratunk, ME (Mile ~2,013 via US-201)
Monson, ME (Mile ~2,078)
Millinocket, ME (Mile ~2,190 from Abol Bridge)
These towns have ALL services (lodging, shower, laundry, food, charging, resupply) within reasonable walking distance (≤2 mi):
These are your guaranteed walkable full-service stops.
You do NOT carry extra clothes. Laundry is done while you are still dressed and functional.
Never shower first and then wear dirty clothes again.
There are ZERO Walmart stores within 2 walking miles of the AT. All Walmart resupplies require a ride.
| Location | Mile | Distance to DG |
|---|---|---|
| Hot Springs, NC | ~274 | 0.3 miles |
| Erwin, TN | ~342 | 0.6 miles |
| Hampton, TN | ~420 | 1.0 mile |
| Pearisburg, VA | ~634 | 0.9 miles |
| Daleville, VA | ~728 | 0.7 miles |
| Waynesboro, VA | ~880 | 1.1 miles |
| Front Royal, VA | ~999 | 3.0 miles |
| Palmerton, PA | ~1,275 | 1.5 miles |
| Great Barrington, MA | ~1,538 | 1.4 miles |
| Gorham, NH | ~1,898 | 1.2 miles |
Appalachian Trail Thru-Hiker Permit — REQUIRED
Backcountry Permit — REQUIRED
Additional Fee: $15 park entrance fee may be required at staffed entry points. AT thru-hikers entering via trail typically bypass fee stations, but carry cash if entering via Skyline Drive.
Note: The previous free paper permit system was eliminated in January 2024. All permits must now be obtained through Recreation.gov.
AT Hiker Permit — REQUIRED
Voluntary identifier, NOT a permit. NOT required to hike.
How to Get:
| Detour | Distance | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Nolichucky River Bridge Detour (TN) | ~3.6 mi | Active (Hurricane Helene damage) |
| Iron Mountain Gap Detour (NC/TN) | ~6 mi | Active (debris removal near Cherry Gap Shelter) |
| Virginia Creeper Trail Closure (Damascus area) | ~20.9 mi | Active through ~fall 2026 (Hurricane Helene destroyed 30+ trestles) |
| Great Gulf Detour (NH) | ~6.4 mi | Active (Madison Gulf Bridge closed Nov 2024) |
Note: Virginia Creeper closure affects NOBO miles 476.6-485.8. Official detour uses Iron Mountain Trail, Flat Top Trail, and Mount Rogers Trail.
⚠️ IMPORTANT: Kennebec River Ferry (Maine) — The ferry across the Kennebec River will NOT operate in 2026. Plan for the road-walk alternative. Check current guidance before reaching this section.
Do not deviate from this format:
THEMAN HOGG
GENERAL DELIVERY
CITY, STATE ZIP
PLEASE HOLD FOR AT HIKER
ETA: MM/DD/YYYYRules:
| Location | Mile | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Hot Springs, NC | ~274 | One of the most reliable mail drops on the AT |
| Damascus, VA | ~469 | AT hub, dependable, generous hold times |
| Daleville, VA | ~727-729 | Easy access, grocery nearby |
| Harpers Ferry, WV | ~1,023-1,026 | Psychological halfway point, very reliable |
| Duncannon, PA | ~1,140-1,150 | Excellent PO + hostel logistics |
| Hanover, NH | ~1,747 | Key resupply before the Whites |
| Monson, ME | ~2,074-2,079 | Gateway to 100-Mile Wilderness. Hold time often 14 days max. |
Note: Shaw’s Hiker Hostel in Monson offers food drop services for the 100-Mile Wilderness—a useful option if you want to lighten your initial carry.
This is the single energy reservoir for the entire system.
Used in towns only. Allows rapid recharge. Minimizes town time.
Estimated Total Demand: ~24,000 mAh
Available Capacity: ~24,000-25,000 mAh
Charge iPhone to ~90-95%
Charge Apple Watch Ultra to ~80-90%
Result: Gains approximately +1 extra trail day
Target weight: 3-6 oz
Tape early. Do not wait for pain.
Hiawassee, GA — Mile ~69 (via Dick’s Creek Gap)
Franklin, NC — Mile ~110 (via Winding Stair Gap)
Hot Springs, NC — Mile ~275
Erwin / Johnson City, TN — Mile ~342
Damascus / Abingdon, VA — Mile ~469
Daleville / Roanoke, VA — Mile ~728
Waynesboro, VA — Mile ~880
Front Royal, VA — Mile ~999
Harpers Ferry, WV — Mile ~1,025
Duncannon, PA — Mile ~1,145
Delaware Water Gap, PA — Mile ~1,298
Bear Mountain / Fort Montgomery, NY — Mile ~1,410
Great Barrington, MA — Mile ~1,538
Dalton, MA — Mile ~1,570
Bennington, VT — Mile ~1,600
Killington, VT — Mile ~1,700
Hanover / Lebanon, NH — Mile ~1,747
Gorham, NH — Mile ~1,898
Andover, ME — Mile ~1,975
Monson, ME — Mile ~2,077
Millinocket, ME — Mile ~2,183
Act early. Most trail emergencies are not sudden disasters—they are delayed decisions.
Lightning protocol immediately. Get off ridges and summits.
Shelter or bail immediately if:
Turn around if:
Note: 911 dispatchers can coordinate with local SAR teams. The NPS number is supplementary, not a replacement for 911.
Use this verbatim when calling:
'I am on the Appalachian Trail.'
'State: [STATE]'
'Nearest named point: [ROAD/SHELTER/LANDMARK]'
'I am hiking northbound.'
'Approximate mile marker: [MILE]'
'GPS coordinates: [LAT/LONG]'
'Can I walk: Yes/No/Limited'
'Nature of problem: [ISSUE]'Message a trusted person at home. They:
'Bad weather. Need off-trail help. I'm near AT mile 725 (McAfee Knob area).'Always know the next exit ahead and the last exit behind. Road name + gap name matters more than mile number.
| Mile | Exit Point |
|---|---|
| 0.0 | Springer Mountain / FS 42–58 access |
| ~8.8 | Nimblewill Gap Rd |
| ~20.6 | Woody Gap (GA-60) |
| ~30.7 | Jarrard Gap Rd |
| ~31.3 | Neels Gap (US-19 / US-129) |
| ~42.1 | Hogpen Gap (GA-348) |
| ~52.9 | Unicoi Gap (GA-75) |
| ~60.6 | Indian Grave Gap Rd |
| ~69.4 | Dick’s Creek Gap (GA-76) |
| Mile | Exit Point |
|---|---|
| ~86.7 | Winding Stair Gap (US-64) |
| ~102.7 | Nantahala Outdoor Center (US-19 / US-74) |
| ~135.7 | Fontana Dam Road |
| ~164.6 | Newfound Gap (US-441) |
| ~198.6 | Davenport Gap (I-40) |
| ~241.3 | Standing Bear / Green Corner Rd |
| ~274.4 | Hot Springs (NC-209) |
| ~299.1 | Allen Gap (NC-212) |
| ~321.3 | Sam’s Gap (US-19W) |
| Mile | Exit Point |
|---|---|
| ~469.1 | Damascus (US-58) |
| ~500.5 | Elk Garden (VA-600) |
| ~534.6 | Kimberling Creek Rd |
| ~635.3 | Pearisburg (VA-460) |
| ~639.8 | New River Bridge (US-460) |
| ~726.3 | VA-311 (McAfee Knob / Catawba) |
| ~785.9 | James River (US-501) |
| ~863.7 | Rockfish Gap (I-64 / US-250) |
| ~909.6 | Swift Run Gap (US-33) |
| ~934.5 | Thornton Gap (US-211) |
| ~971.1 | Front Royal (US-522) |
| Mile | Exit Point |
|---|---|
| ~1,024.4 | Harpers Ferry (US-340) |
| ~1,040.6 | Weverton Road |
| ~1,061.0 | Gathland State Park |
| ~1,067.3 | Pen-Mar Park (MD-550) |
| Mile | Exit Point |
|---|---|
| ~1,136.5 | Caledonia (PA-16) |
| ~1,166.5 | US-30 |
| ~1,195.8 | Pine Grove Furnace (PA-233) |
| ~1,249.3 | PA-34 |
| ~1,309.4 | Port Clinton (PA-61) |
| ~1,343.0 | Wind Gap (PA-33) |
| Mile | Exit Point |
|---|---|
| ~1,368.5 | Delaware Water Gap (I-80) |
| ~1,390.7 | Culvers Gap (NJ-206) |
| ~1,421.1 | Bear Mountain Bridge (US-202) |
| ~1,455.7 | NY-22 |
| Mile | Exit Point |
|---|---|
| ~1,545.0 | US-7 (CT) |
| ~1,591.6 | MA-23 |
| ~1,640.6 | MA-2 (North Adams) |
| Mile | Exit Point |
|---|---|
| ~1,651.8 | VT-9 (Bennington) |
| ~1,706.4 | VT-4 (Killington) |
| ~1,747.4 | VT-11 / VT-30 |
| Mile | Exit Point |
|---|---|
| ~1,796.6 | Glencliff (NH-25) |
| ~1,820.7 | Kinsman Notch (NH-112) |
| ~1,869.2 | Crawford Notch (US-302) |
| ~1,888.1 | Pinkham Notch (NH-16) |
| ~1,904.8 | Gorham (US-2) |
| Mile | Exit Point |
|---|---|
| ~1,964.5 | ME-27 (Stratton) |
| ~2,012.3 | Kennebec River (ME-201) |
| ~2,089.6 | Jo-Mary Road |
| ~2,197.4 | Katahdin Stream Campground Road |
Note: Some forest roads may be seasonally gated—verify with FarOut when conditions matter.
Sharp climbs early, Blood Mountain. First state down.
Long ridge walks. You’re officially a real AT hiker.
Highest sustained elevations. Kuwohi (Clingmans Dome) 6,643 ft.
Big balds, Roan Highlands. Damascus = Trail Town USA.
Grayson Highlands, wild ponies. You’re cruising now.
Longest state. Long ridge walks, manageable climbs.
Gentle grades, frequent services. Fast miles. (~101-108 miles through the park)
The Roller Coaster. Short, steep ups and downs.
Harpers Ferry, rocky PA. Halfway is behind you.
Short climbs, frequent towns. States fall fast.
CT and MA. Rolling, humid. You’re in the North.
Green Mountains. Mud season. Last ‘easy’ state.
Hardest terrain on AT. Alpine travel. If you finish this, you WILL finish.
Roots, rocks, ladders. Katahdin is inevitable.
“I’m not hiking 2,197.9 miles—I’m hiking 14 victories.”
Each video serves three goals:
Total length: 5-10 minutes max
Each verse reflects the day—it does not explain it.
| Category | Scripture |
|---|---|
| Fear / Uncertainty / Wildlife | Isaiah 41:10 — ‘Fear thou not; for I am with thee…’ |
| Cold / Rain / Suffering | James 1:12 — ‘Blessed is the man that endureth temptation…’ |
| Long Miles / Fatigue / Grind Days | Galatians 6:9 — ‘And let us not be weary in well doing…’ |
| Decisions / Route Finding | Proverbs 3:5-6 — ‘Trust in the LORD with all thine heart…’ |
| Provision / Help / Right Place Right Time | Matthew 6:11 — ‘Give us this day our daily bread.‘ |
| Gratitude / Victory / Quiet Days | Psalm 118:24 — ‘This is the day which the LORD hath made…’ |
LumaFusion is a professional, timeline-based video editing application originally designed for mobile creators. Despite being mobile-first, it operates much closer to desktop editors like Final Cut Pro or Adobe Premiere than to consumer apps like iMovie, CapCut, or InShot.
It is a true nonlinear editor, not a template or preset editor.
LumaFusion is widely used by:
| Platform | Support |
|---|---|
| iPhone | Fully supported, complete feature set. Best suited for short to medium edits (5-10 minutes). Excellent for field editing and daily videos. |
| iPad | The platform LumaFusion was designed for. Best overall experience. Supports Apple Pencil, keyboards, and external drives. Many professionals use iPad-only workflows. |
| Mac (Apple Silicon Only) | Runs on M1, M2, M3, and M4 Macs. Uses the iPad version of the app. Performs well. Interface remains touch-optimized, not mouse-first. No native macOS-specific UI. |
| Android / ChromeOS | Supported as of recent versions. |
| Windows | Not supported. No official version. No reliable workaround. |
LumaFusion excels at:
It is especially strong for consistent, repeatable daily videos, such as long-distance hiking documentation.
LumaFusion provides:
This allows:
Audio is a strong point of LumaFusion.
Features include:
These tools are sufficient for clean narration and environmental sound capture, which is critical for outdoor and trail videos.
LumaFusion supports:
This allows consistent color across changing outdoor lighting conditions.
Included tools support:
Reusable templates can be built for daily video consistency.
LumaFusion supports:
Exports are stable and reliable, even on mobile devices.
For a multi-month hike with daily videos, LumaFusion enables:
It removes the dependency on a full laptop-based workflow while preserving professional results.
| Item | Cost/Day |
|---|---|
| Trail food + snacks | $22 |
| Small incidentals | $4 |
| Total per hiking day | $26 |
Hiking day total: $5,044
| Item | Cost/Day |
|---|---|
| Private lodging | $110 |
| Town food (2-3 meals) | $55 |
| Laundry/resupply incidentals | $20 |
| Shuttles/local transport | $15 |
| Total per zero day | $200 |
Zero day total: $9,600
$14,644 (worst case, 242 days)
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Weekly allowance ($150 × 34.5 weeks) | $5,175 |
| Household expense savings | $4,658 |
| Starting food carry | $110 |
| Total offsets | $9,943 |
$4,701 total (~$590/month)
Money will not be the reason the hike becomes unsafe, rushed, or miserable.
A consistent morning routine prevents forgotten gear, reduces decision fatigue, and gets you moving efficiently even on cold, unmotivated mornings.
Order matters. Follow this sequence every time.
Rule: Never break camp on an empty stomach.
Critical: Sleep system goes in pack liner before anything else touches it.
Why this order: If it rains during breakdown, your sleep system is already protected.
Inside the tent/shelter:
Never pack damp hiking clothes from yesterday inside your pack liner.
If dry:
If wet:
Rule: Never wait for a wet tent to dry. You have miles to make.
The STOP method:
When temps are below 30°F:
Check for these 3 items before you walk away:
Everything else can be replaced. Those three cannot.
Goal: Arrive in camp tired but functional, not destroyed.
Rule: If you can’t talk, you can’t sustain the pace for 8 hours.
Standard rhythm:
What to do on breaks:
Break locations:
Fuel strategy: Eat something every 60-90 minutes minimum.
Easy hiking foods:
Rule: Calories = warmth = energy = miles. Never “save food for later.”
| Terrain | Expected Pace |
|---|---|
| Flat, smooth trail | 2.5-3 mph |
| Rolling hills | 2 mph |
| Steep climbs | 1-1.5 mph |
| Rocky, rooty trail | 1.5 mph |
| Maine terrain | 1 mph |
Example:
Response: Stop, eat, drink, assess. Do NOT push through.
Rule: Tomorrow’s miles are cheaper than today’s injury.
A disciplined evening routine prevents cold, hunger, and poor sleep.
Site selection priority:
Rule: If you hesitate, keep walking to the next option.
Before doing anything else:
Why first: If weather turns or you bonk, you have shelter.
Camp or source filtering:
Rule: Get water before dark. Always.
Immediately after water:
Why now: Prevents “I’ll do it after dinner” failure mode.
Cooking workflow:
Rule: Eat even if not hungry. Your body needs fuel to recover.
All hygiene water and toothpaste 200 feet from camp and water.
Rule: Enter sleep mode by dark or within 30 minutes of stopping, whichever comes first.
When temps drop below freezing:
Definition: 24 hours without forward progress on the trail.
Purpose: Physical recovery, gear maintenance, mental reset, resupply.
Not: A day to sit around doing nothing.
Morning:
Afternoon:
Evening:
Required tasks:
Clothing check:
Electronics:
Food:
Consumables:
Zero-day eating strategy:
Rule: If you’re not slightly uncomfortable, you didn’t eat enough.
Activities that actually help:
Activities that don’t help:
❌ Sleeping all day (recover actively, not passively) ❌ Eating only one huge meal (spread calories across day) ❌ Skipping gear maintenance (small problems become hike-enders) ❌ Staying in town too long (momentum is real) ❌ Partying/drinking heavily (recovery requires actual recovery)
By hour 24 of your zero:
If you’re not there, consider a second zero. But if you’re still not there after 48 hours, the problem isn’t physical.
Every single day, without exception:
Pre-taping locations:
STOP immediately if you feel:
Response:
Rule: 2 minutes of taping now saves 2 days of misery later.
Small blister (< dime size):
Large blister (> dime size):
Infected blister (red, hot, pus):
Daily maintenance:
Knees:
Ankles:
Hips:
Post-hike stretches (hold each 30-60 seconds):
Rule: Stretch AFTER hiking, never before (cold muscles tear easily).
Acceptable pain:
Unacceptable pain:
Response to unacceptable pain:
Rule: Limping to save mileage creates injuries that end hikes.
Trail culture has evolved over decades. Following these norms prevents conflict and builds community.
When someone overtakes you:
When you overtake someone:
Rule: Uphill hiker has right of way (they’re working harder).
Arrival:
Conversation:
Morning:
Snoring:
Trail magic: Unexpected help/food/drinks from non-hikers
When you encounter trail magic:
What NOT to do:
How trail names happen:
Using trail names:
What they are: Free-for-all boxes of abandoned gear/food in hostels and outfitters
Hiker box etiquette:
Good hiker box items:
Bad hiker box items:
In hiker-friendly towns:
Unspoken agreements most thru-hikers follow:
What breaks the code:
The AT is marked with white paint blazes:
| Blaze Pattern | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Single white blaze | Trail continues straight |
| Double white blaze (stacked) | Turn or important change coming |
| Double blaze (offset right) | Turn right ahead |
| Double blaze (offset left) | Turn left ahead |
| Blue blaze | Side trail (water, shelter, viewpoint) |
| Yellow blaze | Road or alternate route |
If you haven’t seen a blaze in 5 minutes:
Rule: Going forward when lost makes you more lost.
FarOut is your trail brain: Real-time comments from hikers ahead of you.
Daily use:
What to look for:
Contributing to FarOut:
Your iPhone and inReach both have GPS:
How to use:
Emergency use:
When you might night hike:
Night hiking rules:
Rule: Avoid night hiking if possible. It’s dangerous and exhausting.
Small tear in tent body (< 1 inch):
Torn guy line or shock cord:
Broken tent stake:
Broken tent pole:
Finding the leak:
Patching:
No patch kit:
Torn pack body:
Broken hip belt buckle:
Strap slider failure:
Sole delamination (sole separating from upper):
Lace breakage:
Upper tear:
Zipper failure:
Seam tear:
Rain jacket delamination:
Stove won’t light:
Weak flame:
Slow flow:
Filter frozen:
Minimal kit (4-6 oz):
Optional additions:
Causes:
Solutions:
Causes:
Solutions:
Cause: You’re not carrying enough food (classic thru-hiker error).
Solution:
Normal at these points:
Solutions:
Not normal:
If not normal: Get off trail, talk to someone, take care of yourself. The trail will wait.
Common at:
Solutions:
Reality check: You only see fast hikers because they pass you. Slower hikers are behind you (you never see them).
Solutions:
Normal gear lifespan:
Solutions:
Cause: Injuries, weather, zeros, slower pace than planned.
Solutions:
Week 1-2: Honeymoon Phase
Week 3-5: The Grind Begins
Month 2-3: Trail Legs Arrive
Month 4-5: The Long Middle
Final Month: The Push
#1: Injury
#2: Money
#3: Loneliness
#4: Weather
#5: “It’s Not What I Expected”
Daily affirmations that work:
When to use:
When debating whether to continue:
Ask these three questions:
If answers are:
Remember: Stopping isn’t failure. Finishing injured is failure.
At the end of every day, ask yourself these questions:
If you answer yes to 4 out of 5: You’re on track to finish.
If you answer no to 3 or more: Adjust immediately. Tomorrow will be worse if you don’t.
This part covers what happens between shelter and town, between sunrise and sunset. These are the hours that define your hike.
The planning is done. The gear is chosen. Now it’s about execution, adaptation, and staying patient enough to reach Katahdin.
See you on the summit.
This guide represents everything learned from 840+ miles of thru-hiking, hundreds of hours of research, and the hard-won wisdom of countless hikers who came before. It is not theoretical—it is tested.
The Appalachian Trail will challenge you in ways you cannot fully anticipate. Weather will test your systems. Terrain will test your body. The sheer length will test your mind. But with proper preparation, disciplined execution, and the humility to adapt, you will stand on Katahdin.
Slow early. Strong later. Never break the 5-day rule.
Every system in this guide exists for one purpose: to put you on top of Katahdin, healthy and strong, before the snow flies.
The preparation is complete. Focus now shifts to execution, pacing, and decision-making.
See you on Katahdin, Theman.
Guide last updated: December 2024
Fact-checked and corrected for 2026 thru-hiking season
Includes: Emergency Exit Points, Medical Access by State, Enhanced Weather/Camp Strategy, Complete Water Source Mile Markers
Total corrections and additions applied: 35+
Go to a shelter if ANY ONE is true:
Automatic shelter night. No debate.
Score 3+ → Shelter. Score 2 → Consider. Score 0-1 → Tent OK.
| Condition | Points |
|---|---|
| Temp below 25°F | +1 |
| Sustained wind 15+ mph | +1 |
| Wet clothes at day’s end | +1 |
| Freezing rain / ice forecast | +2 |
| Ground unfit for tent | +1 |
| Mental / physical exhaustion | +1 |
NOT a shelter trigger:
| Temp | Layers |
|---|---|
| 45-60°F | Hiking shirt only, pants if windy |
| 35-45°F | Hiking hoodie, Alpha Freak, hiking pants, Buff optional |
| 25-35°F | All mid layers, Buff, shell for wind only |
| 20-30°F | Full layering including shell, Buff, gloves |
911 dispatchers coordinate with local SAR. NPS number is supplementary.
Use this verbatim:
“I am on the Appalachian Trail.”
“State: ___”
“Nearest named point: ___”
“I am hiking northbound.”
“Approximate mile marker: ___”
“GPS coordinates: ___”
“Can I walk: Yes / No / Limited”
“Nature of problem: ___“
Message your logistics contact:
“Bad weather. Need off-trail help. I’m near AT mile ___ (landmark).”
They call hostels/shuttles and message back.
| Town | Mile | Distance |
|---|---|---|
| Hot Springs, NC | ~274.5 | 0.3 mi |
| Erwin, TN | ~343.8 | 0.6 mi |
| Hampton, TN | ~421.9 | 0.8 mi |
| Pearisburg, VA | ~635.7 | 0.9 mi |
| Daleville, VA | ~727.3 | 0.7 mi |
| Waynesboro, VA | ~861.7 | 1.1 mi |
| Front Royal, VA | ~971.1 | 1.0 mi |
| Palmerton, PA | ~1266.6 | 0.9 mi |
| Great Barrington, MA | ~1518.8 | 1.4 mi |
| Gorham, NH | ~1890.7 | 1.2 mi |
| Location | Mile | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Hot Springs, NC | ~274.6 | Most reliable on AT |
| Damascus, VA | ~470.7 | AT hub, generous hold |
| Daleville, VA | ~685.3 | Easy access |
| Harpers Ferry, WV | ~860.6 | Halfway, very reliable |
| Duncannon, PA | ~1090.5 | Great PO + hostel |
| Hanover, NH | ~1460.4 | Before the Whites |
| Monson, ME | ~1893.1 | 100-Mile gateway (14-day max) |
| Shaw’s Hiker Hostel, ME | ~1893 | Full resupply + gear ship |
THEMAN HOGG
GENERAL DELIVERY
CITY, STATE ZIP
PLEASE HOLD FOR AT HIKER
ETA: MM/DD/YYYY→ Lightning protocol immediately. Get off ridges and summits.
If ANY TWO occur, act conservatively:
| Elevation Drift | Meaning |
|---|---|
| ±3-5 ft, settles | Stable |
| Drops 10-20 ft over 3-6 hrs | Weather in 12-24 hrs |
| Drops 20-30+ ft in 1-3 hrs | Weather imminent |