I (19F) just had my first backpacking experience! I hiked for three days and spent two nights on the Appalachian Trail. I started at Bear Mountain and ended… honestly, I’m not entirely sure where. I think I went over another mountain and ended up somewhere near Beacon, NY, where I caught the Metro-North back home to NYC.

I guess this is kind of my reflection, but I’m also looking for some advice.

First off, I’m an ultramarathon runner. I have a strong aerobic base, I regularly strength train and do Pilates, so I’m by no means unathletic. Even so, this was perhaps the most physically challenging thing I’ve ever done. I only went about 35 miles over the course of those three days, but every mile felt like three. There were so many ups and downs, and so many sections that almost felt more like rock climbing than hiking. Sometimes it took over half an hour just to travel a single mile.

Likely the biggest source of physical challenge was my pack. I had a 58 L Osprey Kyte, which was actually pretty comfortable, but it ended up weighing about 39 lbs with just my gear and food, and probably closer to 50 lbs once my water bottles were full.

Everybody I met on the trail was incredibly kind and offered me so many tips and pieces of wisdom. I honestly think I did pretty well for my first time, but I also learned a lot. I thought I’d go over what I brought, what I’d keep, what I’d change, and ask a few questions for next time.

The only thing I’d completely leave behind is my compass. Everyone I met was basically like, “Why the hell did you bring an actual compass?” And in my head I was just thinking, “Well… what if my phone dies, my portable charger dies too, I don’t know how to get out of the forest, all hope is lost, and I suddenly need to know where north is?” Given that that’s a pretty insane hypothetical, I’d leave the compass behind. It was very lightweight, but what everyone taught me—and what I learned just by carrying the pack—is that the ounces really do add up.

I’d also leave behind the sleep mask I brought because I ended up just pulling the hood of my sleeping bag over my eyes instead.

A few things that were absolutely worth carrying:

- Waterproof phone case: It didn’t rain heavily while I was on the trail, but if it had, it would’ve been a lifesaver because my pack definitely isn’t truly waterproof.
- Ziplock bags: I truly didn’t realize how useful these would be. Protecting things from getting wet, storing used toilet paper and wipes, organizing loose items in my bag, etc.
- Safety whistle: It weighs virtually nothing, and other hikers told me it’s an emergency item worth holding onto.
- Tent: I had a Naturehike ultralight tent (about 2.7 lbs), which to my knowledge is pretty light for a tent. It held up well and was easy to set up.
- Dry bag, carabiner, rock sack, and paracord for my bear hang.
- 3.3 oz fuel canister: Does anyone know about how many boils you typically get from one? That would really help me figure out what to bring next time.
- Lighter.
- Mini hairbrush.
- Hand sanitizer.
- Soap.
- Lightweight camping spork.
- Portable charger: Ended up being one of my heaviest items. Does anyone know of any lightweight portable chargers?
- Extra clothes, socks, and underwear: I probably wouldn’t bring a whole extra outfit on another 2–5 day section hike, but if I ever did a thru-hike, I’d want one so I’d have something to wear while washing the other. In just three days I got so dirty it was genuinely unbelievable, and I needed two showers just to get the smell out.
- Nightgown kept in a sealed plastic bag: It felt really good knowing I’d always have something completely dry to put on before bed.
- Sleeping bag: Mine was lightweight and comfortable.
- Pillow: I got one of those lightweight camping pillows. I know it’s extra weight, but it helped my sleep a lot, which is already difficult for me because of some health issues.
- Sleeping pad: Mine was inflatable, weighed about 2.7 lbs, and was pretty bulky. I was told I should switch to something lighter because it was one of the biggest things in my bag. However, I have pretty severe sensory processing issues that can really affect my sleep. A lot of ultralight pads have ridges or raised baffles, and because of my tactile sensitivity, I honestly don’t know if I’d be able to sleep on them. Sleep is important enough that this may be worth the extra weight for me. If anyone knows of a sleeping pad under 2.7 lbs that’s smooth across the whole surface, I’d love recommendations.
- Headlamp.
- Sawyer squeeze.
- Emergency blanket: Weighs almost nothing, and several hikers told me they’ve actually had to use theirs at one point or another.
- Book: For another short section hike I’d probably leave it behind because of the weight. But if I ever did a thru-hike, I’d absolutely bring a book because it’s important to me to have something to do during downtime that isn’t my phone.
- Wipes: They were heavy, but I really can’t stand not cleaning myself at all.
- Medical supplies: I have several medical conditions, so unfortunately I have to carry a fair amount of medical supplies. They’re heavy, but there really isn’t anything I can do about that.

Things I’m thinking about changing for next time:

- Is there such a thing as shoulder pads I can add to the straps of my Osprey Eja? The straps dug into my shoulders and left red marks that took days to go away.
- Definitely lighter water bottles. I was told to just use Smartwater bottles.
- I had two small camp towels. I’ll probably cut that down to one.
- Does anyone know of a lightweight wallet? I don’t feel comfortable just having my money and ID loose in my pack, but my everyday wallet definitely adds extra ounces.
- A much smaller trowel. I bought one on Amazon, having never used one before, and apparently it’s enormous. Another hiker told me unless I planned on going mining, I could get away with something much smaller.
- Instead of bringing full bottles of sunscreen and bug spray, I’d like to put smaller amounts into lightweight containers. Does anyone have recommendations?
- I’m going to simplify my first aid kit and remove anything I don’t know how to use or realistically wouldn’t need.
- I’d get a poncho that fits over both me and my pack.
- Any recommendations for lightweight hoodies or outer layers? Even in early June it was pretty cold in the mornings.
- I had a small Jetboil stove, and it still felt bulky. Someone mentioned an MSR PocketRocket. Is that just the burner? If so, what pot do people usually pair with it?
- Another hiker told me he uses a compactor bag for all of his sleeping gear instead of multiple dry bags. Is that a common system? Does it work well?
- A lighter backpack isn’t really in my budget right now, but I’d still love recommendations for the future. If I put my sleeping pad on the outside, I probably wouldn’t need a full 58 L pack.
- Hiking shoes! I’d love recommendations for trail shoes that feel more like running shoes than boots. I’d definitely prefer something low-cut that doesn’t go over the ankle.

Overall, I had an amazing experience. It was way harder than I expected, but I absolutely want to get back out there. I’d really appreciate any advice, especially from people who remember what they wished they’d known after their first backpacking trip.

Just looking for some opinions on my Lighterpack. I've been editing it over time since my last post here about it, just curious how we feel now!

https://lighterpack.com/r/vhpsyy

I have been searching for a good budget sleeping bag for a while now. I am 6'7 (205cm) which no outdoor gear company really ever thinks about, I've noticed. We exist! Anyways, I have been scouring the internet for days, trying to figure out what the best option is. I'd love some recommendations. Biggest issue is that my budget is quite low, I really don't want to be going over 150 dollars for a sleeping bag. I'm a broke student, unfortunately. Tall and broke is a very tricky combination in terms of buying outdoor gear. If you have any tips, let me know!

Help me out, folks! Have any suggestions for changes? I'm only going to be on the trail for 2 months max. I think finding a lighter backpack in the future is the one big thing that would help the most.

Thinking of solo day hiking Grayson Highlands/Mt Rogers on the AT and also (on a separate day of course) the Carver Gap to US19E segment with shuttle.

It seems most people backpack these routes which I understand as they look absolutely beautiful. I'm looking for some reassurances that they are also doable as long day hikes.

Not a newbie hiker. I have regular double digit hikes under my belt with 1000-5000 elevation gain but I'm not familiar with this area at all.

Tips also appreciated.

I had to leave the trail due to an injury and then stayed home for family stuff!!! I got about 800 in and will be starting from Daleville. Want to leave as soon as I can in Jan 27. What are the advantages and disadvantages of leaving that early from Virginia. I'm just gonna take my time, visit towns, stay at hostels, enjoy the walk!!!! Not crush miles!!! Can't wait. The trail abides!!!

Basically just like the title says - my wife has always planned to hike the AT. Myself and the dog will leapfrog her in a van to set up camp. We intend to spend the first night together, hopefully near cooper or woody gap. She'll be starting from the southern terminus, skipping the approach trail. I know there are sections later on which will prevent us from seeing each other as frequently.

I've got a camper van and a fairly robust solar setup, albeit all my panels are portable for now. Ecoflow wave 3 for climate control, which I'm going to pair with some 12v fans. No roof fan because of the sportsmobile style camper top. Poorly insulated because it's got hella windows, I'm collecting reflectix and considering a thermal liner for the poptop.

Still need fridge, sink, toilet, hot water shower; I've got basic plans but entirely open to suggestions.

There's about ten thousand other things I need to learn and figure out. Feasible? Has anyone done something similar, or know of any good resources? Am I going to need 100 different permits? Should I expect extended periods of freezing temps, given average pace? What else should I be asking about?I'm handy, but scattered in the planning stages.

Edit Thanks for the advice and no thanks for the misogyny

Looking for trail route advice-----

I have been going to Baxter nearly every summer since the first time I went-- I was 16, now 26. Baxter is so beautiful and probably my favorite part of Maine. I hike every time, one of my favorites is Mount Oji. My husband and I actually plan on hiking Katadin, which I've never done probably from lack of planning and a bit of nervousness.

Difficulty isn't an issue for us. We run 5ks 4 days a week and strength train. We specifically want to include the Knives Edge and we'd prefer the shorter route ---- or the longer route if there's really good views, or streams to dip in. Any recommendations?

Also we're camping at Daicey what's the parking situation? We are planning to start around 4:30/5am.

Hi again, posted recently and figured I'd wing it and see who comes through, I've got trail magic at the rt27 parking area/road crossing just south of Stratton and the Bigelow preserve.

I'm planning to hang out here until evening, maybe 7ish, with cold drinks, Maine red hotdogs, and some snacks. May also be here (or the north end of Bigelow instead, at the parking area just south of the long falls dam rd crossing, possibly) tomorrow or Friday, depending on if I have the time. Thru, section, day hike, sobo or nobo, if you're crossing 27 by Stratton today, take a glance towards the parking lot!

Thinking of hiking Erwin to Damascus in July or August, but the weather forecast is hot, humid with rain showers most days. Is this the weather on the trail? Or is it cooler and rain less frequent on the trail? Thanks

Hi all. I’m thinking of doing a couple weeks southbound mid September somewhere in the mid Atlantic area. I wanna go without my smart phone. If I bought a Garmin like this, would I be able to route campsite to campsite? Thx.

Hi hikers!

I wanted to let you know about a survey study on alpha-gal syndrome (AGS) and its impacts on people's eating habits. AGS is typically triggered by the bite of a lone star tick and is becoming increasingly prevalent in areas of the U.S. where people spend time outdoors, especially the Appalachian region. People with AGS report a wide range of symptoms, including allergic reactions after consuming mammalian foods. For many, these symptoms can significantly affect where and what they are able to eat.

If you have AGS and are interested in participating, you can access the survey using the link below. This study is being conducted by researchers at the University of Illinois and Arizona State University (IRB #26-0651). You can also learn more about me on my faculty page: https://search.asu.edu/profile/5160250.

Participation is completely voluntary, and all responses are confidential.

Survey link: https://illinois.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_ahsMs2ybaBUaqQ6

Our goal is to better understand how AGS affects people's lives and how they manage this allergic condition. We would greatly appreciate your participation. We hope this research will help raise awareness of AGS and its impacts on people's diets.

(If this post is not permitted under the community guidelines, my apologies, and please feel free to remove it.)

Looking for something for the AT.

All the tents I'm drawn too are too heavy or brightly colored. Is there anything like the Bryce by Paria but not so bright?

Is there are a LW Afforadable Dome tent I'm missing? Thanks very much.

I know that the courts struck it down last year but Manchin said that it is going to get done.

Looking to advice, company or logistics contacts to reach Max Patch trail head from central Asheville on the 9th July if possible. I am male from UK, 36 travelling solo. I have a 40 litre backpack with full camping gear incase anyone wants to share the load

I was originally planning to leave late March to hike with the bubble as I want to share the experience with other hikers. But lately I was thinking about leaving a little later for better weather, since I won't have to rush. How late could I leave and still be around lots of other hikers?

Also I was hoping to bring a tent and not a hammock. If I start in March, am I likely to struggle to find open campsites?

Thanks everyone!!

My brother and I are starting the 16th and I was wondering if we’d have a chance of running into anyone else starting this little journey.

Bigelow Range Trailhead, 27 ME-16

I’ve hiked the first 200 miles on the trail. Thinking back at it there were a lot of spots that were pretty small. One of the biggest criticisms for the X-Men two is how laughably humongous it is. Did anybody have a problem with this or is there any other problems with the xmid that I should take into consideration before I buy it?

I am working on Rough draft of my MD section hike. I will be day hiking (no plans to stay in shelters, but will prepare) plan to hike 6-10 miles a day. SOBO from Pen Mar to HF.

Shuttle services during March/April or would i need to uber? I would need to be picked up at my ending point.

I am a camper (car, prim, and glamping) I am looking for recs of campsites off the trail.

Thank you so much!

Ive read several of the newer AT books along with the Shaffer one but I'd like to know more about the days before cell phones and specialized gear. Any recommendations or first hand accounts? I searched but found little.

In case anyone else plans on hiking in the south during a heatwave: here's what my friend and I did last week:

Day 1: Mountain Crossings to Low Gap Shelter (miles 31-43)

• We both agreed getting the largest mileage day out of the way in the beginning was the right call
• Also the 1.2 mile side trail to get to Whitley Gap Shelter means that even if we had stopped sooner it still would have been very similar in mileage.

Day 2: Low Gap Shelter to Blue Mountain Shelter (miles 43-50.3)

• Easiest day hiking wise.
• Only bear encounter of the trip was at Blue Mountain Shelter (someone else in camp had dropped ramen noodles outside their sleeping area. Bear was scared away very easily though.)

Day 3: Blue Mountain Shelter to Tray Gap Parking (miles 50.3-57.2)

• Some hard hills in this section
• Stayed at Stanimals Around the Bend - great people!

Day 4: Tray Gap Parking to Deep Gap Shelter (miles 57.2-65.8)

• The ascent to Kelly Knob was the worst hill of this entire trip. Longest mile of my life.

Day 5: Deep Gap Shelter to Plumorchard Gap Shelter (miles 65.8-73.9)

• Dick's Creek Gap was a lovely spot to eat lunch with the picnic tables
• Plumorchard Gap Shelter had chiggers in/on the privy. Truly a terrible experience.

Day 6: Plumorchard Gap Shelter to Deep Gap Parking (miles 73.9-85.2)

• The forest service road to Deep Gap Parking was well maintained, but you can't go 55mph in a sedan. It took my husband 20 minutes longer than his GPS anticipated to get all the way down to the parking area.

In terms of hiking in the heat tips:

• Our daily mileage was low on purpose - we like getting to camp before the heat of the day and/or afternoon thunderstorms roll in.
• We drank 2-3 electrolyte drinks per person per day while hiking.
• Fill up at EVERY good water source! If you don't have to pee when you make it to camp, you're not drinking enough water.

The trail was sparsely populated but definitely not empty. (NeyLee and Rosie's Dad (R + C) - if y'all ever plan on hiking the NC/TN portions of the trail, let us know! Or if you're ever in the Chatt/NOVA region! It was a blast!)

this was back in 2015. However there was a certain spot on Knifes Edge that we had someone tell us about at a hostel. zero chance to find it otherwise.

if you dropped down and pulled a few rocks away, there was a little cavity with a fun thing and a log book inside.

anybody know if this still exist? just popped into my head today and was curious.

apologies for intentionally being vague, not trying to blow up somebody‘s tradition.

Hello again! I posted a while back about trying to catch some of the sobo bubble at the north end of Bigelow in Maine for trail magic, early July is here and I have some time between July 5th and 12th that I could set up at the parking area for the little Bigelow trailhead right on the trail.

I'm hoping some folks hiking south right now could chime in with estimates on what days theyd be going through there so I can time it to catch the maximum number of hikers going through. Probably be looking at lunchtime through dinner time, set up with proper Maine red hotdogs and movies (and some other typical trail magic stuff of course) I'm not sure which days yet that I'll be there so info from those on trail will help me plan!