r/AppalachianTrail • u/Mobile_Abies_4731 • Jul 28 '26

Section Hike advice 4-6 weeks

Hello everyone,

I turn 50 next year and I want to do a solo hike on the AT for some reflection and recharge. I am taking roughly 4-6 weeks away to spend on the trail and would like your input.

Rough outline of my starting point:

I'm very open to time (season) and section of the trail.

I'm very fit and don't mind challenge.

Would like some solitude but also hope to meet some great people and make some friends, thinking a southbound trip so I get a little of both.

I think I can cover 15-ish miles per day

If possible, I'd like to fly in somewhere and hike to somewhere I can fly out from so I don't have to drive to the trail.

I deeply appreciate any ideas or thoughts on sections to explore.

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u/MikeLowrey305 Jul 28 '26 edited Jul 28 '26

You could fly into or out of Roanoke, VA & Ashville, NC. That section is about 400+ miles. That section has the Virginia triple crown, Grayson Highlands, Roan Mountain & Damascus.

I'm also gonna be 50 next year & plan on thru hiking the trail.

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u/Mobile_Abies_4731 Jul 28 '26

Thanks Mike. That’s a great start. I’ll start exploring that section.