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In the latest installment of the Appalachian Trail Thru-Hiker Survey, 389 respondents shared fresh insights into their overall trail experiences — including their favorite sections of the AT. Once again, Southernmost Virginia emerged as the standout, with Baxter State Park and the White Mountains also earning top marks.
In contrast, Northern Pennsylvania was consistently rated as the least popular section. This data, collected between October and November 2024, reinforces trends seen in previous years while offering new context on why certain sections continue to resonate with hikers.
While any ranking of the “best” sections of the AT is always going to be subjective, it’s interesting to see the same sections consistently ranking among thru-hikers’ favorites over the years.
The 7 Best Sections of the AT, According to Thru-Hikers
1. Roan Highlands through Southernmost Virginia (134.5 mi)
Location & Mileage
This dynamic stretch covers 134.5 miles: 93.2 miles winding through North Carolina and Tennessee, and the remaining 41.5 miles traversing Virginia from Damascus to the Grayson Highlands.
Best sections of the Appalachian Trail: Roan Highlands through Southermost Virginia. Photo via
Highlights
Southern Virginia along the Appalachian Trail offers a series of quiet yet memorable moments. The fun begins even further south, in the Roan Highlands, where gentle slopes lead to the subtle cascade of Laurel Fork Falls and the reflective calm of Watauga Lake. Passing through historic Damascus, hikers soon find themselves in the open expanses of Grayson Highlands, where free-roaming wild ponies add a touch of natural charm.
Why It’s a Crowd-Pleaser
Hikers love breaking free from the dense woodland for sweeping, panoramic views and open highland trails. The blend of gentle rolling climbs and expansive vistas, straight out of a fantasy epic, makes this section an enduring favorite.
2. Baxter State Park, ME (19.9 mi)
Location & Mileage
Covering 19.9 miles from the park’s boundary to the summit of Katahdin — with bonus mileage for those navigating the ascent and descent — the route is as challenging as it is rewarding.
Best sections of the Appalachian Trail: Baxter State Park. Photo via
Highlights
Baxter State Park offers a fitting finale for Appalachian Trail thru-hikers, blending natural beauty with a sense of accomplishment. The journey through the park includes serene spots like Big and Little Niagara Falls and Daicey Pond, leading up to the ascent of Katahdin — Maine’s highest peak and the trail’s northern terminus.
This climb marks the culmination of the AT adventure, providing a memorable conclusion to the trek. Thru-hikers should be mindful of the park’s regulations, including the need for permits and adherence to Leave No Trace principles, to ensure a respectful and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
Why It’s a Crowd-Pleaser
Despite ending with one of the AT’s toughest climbs, Baxter State Park captivates with its remote woodlands and Katahdin’s imposing presence looming over everything. For many, the sense of isolation and unmatched summit views more than justify the extra effort (plus, a free hiker permit adds a little official cachet to the adventure).
3. White Mountains, NH (99 mi)
Location & Mileage
Spanning 99 miles from Glencliff Trail parking to the US Route 2 crossing, this segment includes some of the most dramatic vistas in New England.
Best sections of the Appalachian Trail: White Mountains. Photo via
Highlights
The journey begins with Mount Moosilauke, where steep trails lead to expansive summit views in the trail’s first major alpine zone.
Continuing to Franconia Ridge and beyond, hikers experience a spectacular above-treeline path that spans peaks like Mount Lincoln and Mount Lafayette.
The Presidential Traverse challenges hikers with a series of peaks named after US presidents, offering continuous exposure to alpine environments and stunning landscapes. The ascent of Mount Washington, the highest point in the northeastern US, presents demanding terrain and notoriously unpredictable weather, rewarding those who reach its summit with sweeping views.
Throughout this section, the Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC) High Huts offer meals and lodging in rustic (albeit expensive!) settings, allowing hikers to recharge before continuing their journey. Thru-hikers can get discounted treats with an AMC thru-hiker pass, and a limited number can sleep indoors for free as work-for-stays.
Why It’s a Crowd-Pleaser
Known for its steep climbs and equally aggressive descents, the White Mountains test your mettle. Hikers revel in the challenging terrain, which is balanced by jaw-dropping, unobstructed views. However, be prepared: the notorious quick-changing weather above treeline is all part of the wild charm. The Whites climbed a bit in the rankings this year compared to 2024, moving into third place.
4. Roanoke, VA Region including Dragon’s Tooth / McAfee’s Knob / Tinker Cliffs (41 mi)
Location & Mileage
Covering roughly 41 miles from VA Route 621 to Daleville, this section of trail is affectionately dubbed the Virginia Triple Crown.
Best sections of the Appalachian Trail: Virginia Triple Crown. Photo via
Highlights
Traversing Virginia’s Triple Crown near Roanoke offers Appalachian Trail hikers a series of memorable experiences. A brief detour leads to Dragon’s Tooth, a prominent rock spire accessible via a challenging ascent that rewards with expansive views of the Catawba Valley.
Continuing along the trail, McAfee Knob presents one of the most iconic vistas on the AT, providing a perfect backdrop for that quintessential hiking photo (yeah, you know the one).
Venture a bit further and you’ll be rewarded with dramatic panoramas from Tinker Cliffs, making the effort to reach its heights well worthwhile.
Why It’s a Crowd-Pleaser
Packed with iconic landmarks that define the AT experience, this section is a visual feast for hikers and photographers alike. Its mix of natural beauty and local charm makes every step memorable.
5. 100-Mile Wilderness, ME (100 mi)
Location & Mileage
Beginning at Monson, Maine (mi 2,082.7) and culminating at Abol Bridge (mi 2,182.7), this near-100-mile stretch is as remote as it is serene.
Best sections of the Appalachian Trail: 100-Mile Wilderness. Photo via
Highlights
Embarking on Maine’s 100 Mile Wilderness is not for the faint of heart (or weak of legs).
Beginning in Monson, Shaw’s Hiker Hostel provides a welcoming spot to rest and refuel before the trek. Along the trail, landmarks like Wilson Falls and Chairback Mountain offer memorable vistas and challenges. Ascending White Cap Mountain rewards hikers with the first glimpses of Mount Katahdin, signaling the journey’s approaching end. Tranquil spots like Rainbow Lake and the beloved Antlers Campsite provide serene settings for reflection.
Finally, crossing Abol Bridge offers stunning views of Katahdin, marking the culmination of this remarkable section. For NOBOs, the end is in sight.
Why It’s a Crowd-Pleaser
Famed for its seclusion, this section is a hiker’s retreat into quiet, waterfall-laden trails and gentle forest paths. As you gradually re-emerge into civilization, the dramatic reveal of Katahdin keeps the spirit of adventure alive.
6. Southern Maine (128.6 mi)
Location & Mileage
Stretching from Centennial Trail parking to just north of Little Bigelow along East Flagstaff Road, this 128.6-mile section is rugged and rewarding.
Best sections of the Appalachian Trail: Southern Maine. Photo via
Highlights
Southern Maine’s Appalachian Trail offers thru-hikers a series of formidable challenges and rewarding vistas. The journey begins with Mahoosuc Notch, often dubbed the trail’s “toughest mile,” where hikers navigate a labyrinth of massive boulders, demanding both agility and patience.
Progressing northward, the trail leads to the Rangeley Lakes region, home to Saddleback Mountain and The Horn. These peaks provide extensive above-treeline hiking, rewarding adventurers with panoramic views of the surrounding lakes and forests.
The traverse culminates with the Bigelow Mountain Range, featuring West Peak and Avery Peak. These summits offer expansive vistas and mark a significant milestone as hikers approach the final stretches of their Appalachian Trail journey through Maine.
Why It’s a Crowd-Pleaser
Southern Maine is notorious for its punishing terrain — a true test of endurance. Hikers embrace the “dig deep” spirit here, where every rocky, root-ridden climb gives way to some of the most breathtaking vistas on the entire AT.
7. Smoky Mountains National Park, TN / NC (77.2 mi)
Location & Mileage
Running from Fontana Village to the quirky Standing Bear Farm hostel, this 77.2-mile leg of the AT straddles Tennessee and North Carolina.
Best sections of the Appalachian Trail: Smoky Mountains. Photo via
Highlights
Through the Smoky Mountains, thru-hikers are treated to a series of unforgettable landmarks. Starting at Fontana Dam, the tallest dam east of the Rockies, the journey quickly leads to the Shuckstack Fire Tower. A 3.5-mile side trail from the AT, the Shuckstack Fire Tower offers panoramic views of Fontana Lake and the surrounding mountains.
Continuing along the white blazes, hikers reach the AT’s high point at 6,667-foot Clingmans Dome. Further north, you’ll be rewarded with iconic spots like Charlie’s Bunion and Newfound Gap. A detour to Mount Cammerer Lookout Tower rewards hikers with 360-degree views of the Smokies.
Why It’s a Crowd-Pleaser
For northbound hikers, the Smokies mark the first major milestone on the trail. The blend of lush forests, misty summits, and memorable landmarks creates an unforgettable tapestry of natural wonder. Its mix of challenging climbs and serene descents leaves hikers both exhilarated and satisfied.
What About the WORST Sections?
Stay tuned for the upcoming post about 2024 hikers’ least favorite sections. Some are unsurprising (I’m looking at you, Northern Pennsylvania), but some of the choices may surprise you!
Featured image: Photo via Geoffrey Wistow. Graphic design by Chris Helm.
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