2194Miles
150–210Days
464,000 ftGain
ThruType
Permits
System
ATC registration + Great Smoky Mountains NP permit + Baxter State Park permitRegister thru-hike at appalachiantrail.org at least 30 days before start. Great Smoky Mountains NP: backcountry permit required ($20 + $4/night on Recreation.gov). Baxter State Park (Katahdin): day-use permit reservation required — books out months in advance. Get this early.Apply or read more
Cost
Free ATC registration. GSMNP: $20 + $4/night. Baxter: $15/vehicle day use.
Bear storage
Not required — shelter system with bear boxes. Hang is sufficient.
Season
Best
NOBO: March–April start from Springer, GA. SOBO: late June from Katahdin.
JFMAMJJASOND
PeakShoulderClosed
On trail
Water
Abundant throughout — springs, streams, shelter water sources. Sawyer Squeeze or BeFree sufficient. Filter all sources.
Resupply
Trail towns every 3–7 days average. Damascus VA, Hot Springs NC, Harpers Ferry WV, and Gorham NH are major hiker hubs.
Notes
AT has an extensive shelter system — solo hikers can skip a tent on many nights if shelter-hopping. Crowded in peak season, especially at popular shelters. Mouse-proof your food.
Elevation
3,782 ftHigh 5,774 ft
Resupply towns
Springer Mtn
Hiawassee
Hot Springs
Damascus
Harpers Ferry
Gorham
Monson
Millinocket
Recommended gear