Question for RUinPinehurst:
Please explain the logistics of a 5 day AT hike. Does someone leave a car for you at the expected end point or do you Uber back to start? Do you hike with someone and shuttle cars which would mean lots of driving?
I’m looking to do exactly what you are but not sure of logistics. I’ve already done all of NJ, NY and CN and most of PA. Now I need to get further away from NJ and can’t count of the wife to drop off AND pickup.
Thank you
I've been driving north along the trail in VA this summer, typically parking my vehicle at secured parking areas, usually at hostels, where you might may a couple dollars a day. And then I'd arrange a shuttle to take me from the hostel/parking to the trailhead.
There are quite a few hostels along the trail that provide parking, as do many other hiker-friendly businesses and motels, etc. Also many shuttle services that typically charge $1.50 per mile. In larger towns, there's always Uber/Lyft.
I rely on an app called "Guthook Guides" for the AT. It gives you a detailed trail map including water sources, shelters, tent areas, etc. as well as details on just about every other support resource you would need such as lodging, food resupplies, laundry, shuttles, and so on. The app also allows hikers to add comments for every category, so you get near real-time updates on anything from bear activity, to water availability, etc. I also have a paper AT Guide as backup.
You can look at a few online resources, too, that provide shuttle info including a PDF list. I'll see if I can find a link to post here.
As it happens, I'm heading out tomorrow to meet an old RU roommate from NJ. We'll hike the AT portion of the Shenandoah National Park, just about 45 miles, over a few days. I'll stick around when we're done to solo at least another week. Still aiming to complete the trail up to Harper's Ferry by end of summer.
If you have any other questions, don't hesitate to post here. I'll check back while on the trail.
Edit... Some resources:
An updated list of hostels on the Appalachian Trail, including mileage and other important notes. Current as of spring 2021.
thetrek.co
Appalachian Trail Shuttle providers
www.whiteblaze.net
WhiteBlaze is an Appalachian Trail discussion forum and information site, it also contains an exclusive photo section of Appalachian Trail photos. Hiking the Appalachian Trail One Blaze at a Time. If you are preparing to hike the Appalachian Trail this is the site you want.
whiteblaze.net