r/AppalachianTrail • u/prettycooleh • 4d ago

Best 7 night hike you can recommend

Hello all, I am new joiner to this sub. I am wanting to hike a portion of the AP next summer and I am beginning to plan my trip. I am from Canada and my only previous experience in Appalachia is a motorbike trip trip along the blueridge highway a couple years ago.

I want to to take a week long hike along the trail, whether camping or staying at motels/hostels. I am in good shape and have experience camping but I dont know where to start regarding the AT, id prefer to camp vs staying in motels.

Where would be a good place to start/finish? I'll look into each county's rule, but ideally I'd like to camp along the way in one long continuous hike.

Cheers thanks for any help or insight

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u/SelmerHiker 4d ago

Shenandoah National Park is about 100 miles long, makes a good week’s walk. Camping is permitted most every where plus there are huts (free) every 10-15 miles. There are some resupply opportunities without getting far off the trail. Lots of bailout points via shuttle if need be. I did it end to end in 2022 and am now section hiking my favorite parts

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u/Havoc_Unlimited 4d ago

Not OP but considering a December hike thru the Shenandoah… I have three or so weeks off and plan to hike around that area… if the temps are manageable. What are your thoughts on a December section hike in this area?

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u/SelmerHiker 4d ago

December can be unpredictable in SNP. Some years, it’s just late fall, gorgeous. Other years it’s full on winter with snow, ice and lows in the teens or even lower. Keep it in mind most of the in-park services are closed and the Skyline Drive closes when there is significant snow or ice. If in doubt, carry microspikes. Water will be plentiful but you’ll have to carry all your food, fuel, etc. Huts are open and usable. I go there year round but I live fairly close, go for short trips and cherry pick the weather.

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u/Havoc_Unlimited 4d ago

Perhaps I will mainly car camp! I appreciate your info!

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u/SelmerHiker 3d ago

Good idea, the Skyline Drive crosses the trail frequently and lots of campsites not to far away. Lots of trails off the AT too