Appalachian National Scenic Trail

The Appalachian National Scenic Trail is a renowned long-distance hiking trail in the eastern United States. Stretching over 2,190 miles (3,524 kilometers), it spans from Springer Mountain in Georgia to Mount Katahdin in Maine. This iconic trail cuts through 14 states, including Georgia, North Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine.

The idea for the Appalachian Trail dates back to the 1920s when Benton MacKaye proposed the creation of a footpath along the Appalachian Mountain Range. The trail was completed in 1937 and has since become a significant part of the country's outdoor heritage. Managed by the National Park Service, the Appalachian Trail attracts millions of visitors each year, both experienced hikers and casual explorers alike.

Traversing diverse landscapes, the Appalachian Trail offers a variety of attractions and activities for outdoor enthusiasts. Hikers can take on shorter sections or attempt the ultimate challenge of completing the entire trail, known as a thru-hike. Along the way, they can enjoy breathtaking views, diverse flora and fauna, and discover the region's rich cultural and historical heritage.

There are several notable sites along the Appalachian National Scenic Trail worth exploring. In Virginia, hikers can visit McAfee Knob, one of the most photographed spots on the entire trail, offering panoramic views of the surrounding valleys. New Hampshire offers the majestic White Mountains, featuring peaks like Mount Washington, which can be ascended by an alternative trail off the Appalachian Trail. In Maine, Mount Katahdin provides a stunning finale with its rugged beauty and challenging climb.

The Appalachian Trail is also surrounded by numerous attractions and communities, allowing visitors to experience local culture and history. Notable towns include Gatlinburg, Tennessee, known for its proximity to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, where the Appalachian Trail Conservancy headquarters is located. Additionally, the trail often intersects with other natural landmarks, such as the Blue Ridge Parkway, Shenandoah National Park, and the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area.

Overall, the Appalachian National Scenic Trail offers an unforgettable outdoor experience, connecting hikers with the beauty of the eastern United States. With its historical significance, diverse terrain, and nearby attractions, it remains a beloved destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers from around the world.

The Appalachian National Scenic Trail is located within the eastern region of the United States, traversing through the states of Georgia, North Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine. Spanning approximately 2,190 miles, the trail follows the spine of the Appalachian Mountains, providing hikers with picturesque views and diverse landscapes. As it winds its way through these states, the trail showcases the natural beauty and geographical diversity of the region, from lush forests and rolling meadows to rugged peaks and serene lakes. Hikers on this iconic trail can witness the changing scenery and experience the grandeur of the Appalachian Mountains up close.

Address & Contact

Appalachian Trail Park Office
P.O. Box 50
Harpers Ferry, WV 25425
Driving Directions
Phone: 3045356278
Web: Link

Weather & Seasonality

The best time to visit the Appalachian National Scenic Trail would be during the months of May, June, and September. These months experience pleasant temperatures ranging from 60°F to 85°F, ideal for outdoor activities. Additionally, the average monthly precipitation during these months is around 4.3 inches, providing a comfortable balance between dry and wet weather.

Activities

Some of the activities you can do in Appalachian National Scenic Trail are: Astronomy Stargazing Guided Tours Self-Guided Tours - Walking Hands-On Junior Ranger Program Wildlife Watching Birdwatching Camping Backcountry Camping Hiking Front-Country Hiking Backcountry Hiking Snowshoeing Volunteer Vacation Citizen Science Compass and GPS Orienteering

Topics

Learn about these topics at Appalachian National Scenic Trail: Animals Birds Night Sky River and Riparian Trails Wilderness Watersheds Climate Change Forests and Woodlands Lakes Mountains Natural Sounds Astronomy Scenic Views Waterfalls Wetlands Deciduous Forests Coniferous Forests Headwaters Horses (wild)

Visitor Centers

Appalachian Trail Conservancy - Monson Visitor Center

The National Park Service and the Appalachian National Scenic Trail do not currently have a visitor center. The Appalachian Trail Conservancy, a national non-profit organization, operates its own visitor center in Monson, ME.

Campsites within or near Appalachian National Scenic Trail

This park doesn't have any campsites within its boundaries (or we haven't found them yet)).

Hotels within or near Appalachian National Scenic Trail

Long Mountain Lodge

Located in Dahlonega, Long Mountain Lodge is a 1-minute drive from Chattahoochee National Forest and 14 minutes from Montaluce Winery & Restaurant. Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, a computer station, and a library. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 144 Bull Creek Road, Dahlonega, Georgia 30533
Web: Link

Forrest Hills Mountain Resort

Located in Dahlonega, Forrest Hills Mountain Resort is in the mountains, a 1-minute drive from Gold City Corral and 11 minutes from Burt's Pumpkin Farm. Planning an event in Dahlonega? This resort has facilities measuring 2000 square feet (186 square meters), including a conference center. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 135 Forrest Hills Road, Dahlonega, Georgia 30533
Web: Link

Amicalola Falls State Park & Lodge

With a stay at Amicalola Falls State Park & Lodge in Dawsonville, you'll be in a state park, just a 1-minute walk from Chattahoochee National Forest and 10 minutes by foot from Appalachian National Scenic Trailhead - South Terminus. Featured amenities include a business center, complimentary newspapers in the lobby, and a 24-hour front desk. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 418 Amicalola Falls Lodge Road, Dawsonville, Georgia 30534
Web: Link

Chris's Hideaway by Vacasa

With a stay at this vacation home in Ellijay, you'll be within a 15-minute drive of Chattahoochee National Forest and Rich Mountain Wilderness. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 285 Oliver Creek Rd, Ellijay, Georgia 30536
Web: Link

Mountain Melody by Vacasa

With a stay at this vacation home in Cherry Log, you'll be steps from Chattahoochee National Forest and a 4-minute drive from Rich Mountain Wilderness. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 357 Sky Line Drive, Cherry Log, Georgia 30522
Web: Link

Come On Inn by Escape to Blue Ridge

With a stay at this cabin in Blue Ridge, you'll be just steps from Chattahoochee National Forest and Ocoee River. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 1935 Dial Rd, Blue Ridge, Georgia 30513
Web: Link

Black Bear Ridge by Escape to Blue Ridge

When you stay at this cabin in Ellijay, you'll be 4 minutes by foot from Chattahoochee National Forest. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 55 Ridge Top Dr, Ellijay, Georgia 30536
Web: Link

Winding Log Ridge by Escape to Blue Ridge

With a stay at this cabin in Cherry Log, you'll be steps from Chattahoochee National Forest and a 3-minute drive from Rich Mountain Wilderness. Featured amenities include multilingual staff and ATM/banking services. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 2249 Big Creek Dr, Cherry Log, Georgia 30513
Web: Link

Above the River

With a stay at Above the River in Suches, you'll be just steps from Chattahoochee National Forest and Ocoee River. Guests will find features like wireless Internet access.
Address: 166 Toonowee Road, Suches, Georgia 30572
Web: Link

A River Runs Through It by Escape to Blue Ridge

With a stay at this cabin in Blue Ridge, you'll be just steps from Chattahoochee National Forest and Ocoee River.
Address: 1955 Dial Rd., Blue Ridge, Georgia 30513
Web: Link