400 AT miles July

imported
#1

If you could hike 400-500 miles on the AT in July, where would you go?
I´m flying to Philadelphia, so it would we good, if I could access the trail without much hazzle. Oh, I prefer flat terrain and I don´t mind warm weather.

Witz

#2

Witz - If you come to the AT fit, in good shape, you could do all of Virginia in a month, but only if you were experienced. Meaning that your pack weight is in the mid 20’s, trail runners not boots, etc. Virginia has awesome climbs and summits and variety from Harpers Ferry (southbound) to Damascus.
Harpers can be had by train, Not too far from Philly.

I also like doing all of Maine. Gorham, New Hampshire moving north to Mt. Kathdin (about three weeks to a month), since that terrain is quite rugged, it could be tough just coming off a sofa on to it - once again being in shape will help. By July the black fly will have gone. You can exit through Millinocket.

Postcard

#3

Witz - you can access the trail about an hours drive from Phila in Port Clinton, Pa., and although the AT is rocky in PA, it is known as a relatively “flat” state, as the trail tends to run along the low ridges. you can hike either north or south from there and see alot of trail if you have a month! Have a great hike!

Wridgewrassler

#4

I used to live in PA between Philly & Port Clinton.

SOBO from Port Clinton is much less rocky & would be flatter (if your hiking 400 miles) than heading NOBO. Southern PA is very pleasant, Maryland is an easy stroll, Harpers Ferry is very interesting with tons of history and Shenandoah National Park is easy terrain with great views & good food options. The only rugged section in this region is called the ‘roller coaster’ (between SNP & Harpers Ferry).

I don’t have a data book handy for total mileage, but one good exit option would be Rockfish Gap just south of SNP.

Happy Trails

freebird

#5

witz, if you started at PA174-Boiling Springs, PA, and hiked south to US11-Troutville, VA it would be 391.5 miles, North section is about as flat as you can get on the AT, and South of the PA rocks, once you get to Reeds Gap in VA there’ll be some up and down.

Swaggie