Virginia is home to the most miles of the Trail (about 550), while West Virginia is home to the least (about 4). Maryland and West Virginia are the easiest states to hike; New Hampshire and Maine are the hardest. The total elevation gain of hiking the entire A.T. is equivalent to climbing Mt. Everest 16 times.
The “easiest” state on the Appalachian Trail (AT) is subjective, as it depends on various factors, such as terrain, elevation changes, weather, and hiker experience. However, many hikers consider Virginia to be one of the easier states on the Appalachian Trail for a few reasons:
- Terrain: Virginia features some of the longest stretches of relatively moderate terrain on the AT. While there are still challenging sections, such as parts of the Smoky Mountains, the state is known for its rolling hills and fewer steep climbs compared to other states.
- Mild Elevation Gain: The elevation changes in Virginia tend to be less extreme, with many climbs being longer but not as steep. The state has over 500 miles of the AT, making it a long but manageable section for through-hikers.
- Access to Towns: Virginia has numerous access points to towns and resupply options, which can make it easier to rest and restock during a long hike. The town of Damascus, for instance, is a famous stop for many hikers.
- Scenic Beauty: Despite being easier in terms of hiking difficulty, Virginia is still incredibly scenic with plenty of picturesque views, making the hiking experience more enjoyable.
While Virginia is often considered the easiest state in terms of terrain and logistics, every hiker’s experience can vary, and what is “easy” for one person may be difficult for another, depending on individual fitness levels and trail conditions.
