In general, would March 1st or April 15 be a better starting date for a NOBO of the AZT? I’d prefer to miss as much snow hiking as I can, but would also like to have water. Is a mid-April thru May hike pushing the W1 and W2 water spots - assuming somewhat normal snow and rain?
Thx
mn_scout
Is there such a thing as “normal” weather any more? In 2010, April 15 was really tough going, and March 1 was nearly impossible. This year, March 1 was possible and by May the place was burning up.
If I really wanted to avoid snow and could not be flexible, I’d shoot for the later date. Water should still be trickling in April, and you might be seeing data from earlier hikers by then. But I also think flexibility is very important for this hike.
Garlic
I started mid-march two years ago. I got snowed on for two days near Pine and 1 day at South Rim. Trail was still easy to follow, just your shoes get soaked. Snow on the ground north of GCNP was still patchy. Again, trail easy to follow but shoes get soaked. If snow is to much for you north of GCNP, you can easily road walk. The trail paralels (sp) the raod all the way to Jacob Lake.
bowlegs
Thank you. Maybe I can get taxes done early and start end of March. 
I joined the ATA and downloaded the maps and data. I’ve roughed out a (very flexible) itinerary and am looking forward to the trek in the spring.
mn_scout
On average, March and April are arguably better months to thru-hike than April and May. Just in terms of probabilities, you’re more likely to find water, less likely to be dealing with wildfires, less likely to be walking through intense heat. You’re more likely to encounter snow in the high country, and especially on the north rim of GC. But the associated challenges are typically fleeting in comparison with walking through the desert in May of a drought year.
Garlic is spot on, though. “On average” doesn’t mean much, especially of late. If you can, you’re better off remaining flexible, waiting to see how conditions look toward the end of winter. With its extreme range of terrain and elevation, there’s no such thing as an all-around ideal time to thru-hike the AZT. But you’ll be much more likely to dial in a schedule that’ll work best for you by simply waiting and seeing what unfolds between now and next spring.
blisterfree
We started early march and workd out great for us some snow but. Not bad and for this alaskan plenty hot enough ! Like folks have said stay flexible and have a great hike she is a beauty
yappy
Just a comment about them. They are usually a semi-abandoned double track with maybe a tire track or two. I only passed one vehicle (Native Americans out gathering firewood) on my hike. Don’t let the word road fool you. They hardly count as “road walking.”
bowlegs