Why you should NOT start your thru hike in March | Appalachian Trail

[@marktomasko7863]

As a soon-to-be third-time AT thruhiker this is some of the best advise that has hit the internet so far. Good job, great advice!!!!! Just maybe you will save someone's life..at the least you may have allowed some to succeed who would have quit without this video. Well done!!!

[@FollowBigfoot]

Thank you Mat!

[@Nebulung]

What month do you recommend starting?

[@FollowBigfoot]

Depending on how fast you can hike it, I recommend early to mid April. I started April 23rd and the weather was almost perfect. You can have even more flexibility if you do a flip flop

[@davidherringgo]

Excellent tips. I like the one on flying into Atlanta and doing a section Springer to Neal's gap to try it out, thanks.

[@tinah.791]

1. Cold weather. Rainy season in March in GA 2. Money. Cold weather gear cost lots of (more) money 3. More gear for cold, backpack is heavy and hike less mile= stay trail longer 4. Overcrowded. Overcrowded shelter, unsanitary water source etc. 5. Since overcrowded NO VACANCY in town or hostel in March ..... Well made video, Thanks

[@nikhaarshah9474]

Tina H. Thanks for the summary, he takes forever!

[@darylroddy112]

Tina H. Thank you for the list.

[@garrettcole8533]

Glad I looked in comments. You saved me 15 minutes.

[@sharetherisk7647]

My plan that I never got to do but my daughter followed was an mid-April start in Harpers Ferry going NOBO hiking with spring, summit Katahdin w/o worry of closure traditional NOBO's risk, then return to Harpers Ferry and SOBO south hiking with fall to Springer. You avoid the bubble(s), black fly season, extremes of winter cold and summer heat/humidity = all positives. Surprised more hikers do not follow this plan.

[@douglynch9012]

I'm glad you emphasized the weather issues for the folks starting early. I'm here in Erwin,TN and help out with a local shuttle service. Already this year I had a couple of wet and frozen hikers calling for a rescue shuttle at ten o'clock at night because all their gear was soaked and with temperatures plumenting they couldn't make it through the night. One thing to remember is that it's not easy to find someone willing to get out of bed at 10:00/pm and drive 20 miles to a mountain gap to pick you up. The other thing to remember is that if weather conditions are deteriorating, a shuttle service may not be able to get to you.

[@MWoodslore]

Maby some fire starting skills are in order for some. 🔥= No Hypothermia

[@williambranham6249]

@Doug Lynch:I have a friend who used to shuttle near Damascus and Whitetop Mt. He told me many stories about night calls. It was the main reason he quit. Sadly enough many of these folks had no money. He often mentioned 10 PM. I'm not sure why that time comes up a lot.As a retired dentist I used to get a frequent call around 10 PM for a toothache. The person calling was usually the wife of the husband who had the toothache.

[@Temporalplace]

@@MWoodslore all those modern hiking clothes won't survive fire , cant even dry those modern synthetic clothes near fire without destroying them.

[@Temporalplace]

@@MWoodslore Thats why i always use poncho to not get wet and canvas outer layer to be able to dry it by fire if needed. There are some gear that you should not lighten up by sacraficing their durability thus your security.

[@_..____]

Hi Doug, thank you for saving their butts ;-)

[@johnalden5821]

You are 100 percent correct on the weather part. Some college friends and I went on a spring break (i.e., March) backpacking trip in the Smokies a "few" years back. Back at school, folks had been playing softball and suntanning in the quad. In the mountains -- not so much. It was in the high 30s or low 40s, with something like 30 mph steady winds and horizontal rain. We couldn't get a fire started. We could barely keep our stove lit. Nobody slept. Not what we had been expecting, to say the least.

[@GuadalupePicasso]

But, did y’all still enjoy it?

[@williambranham6249]

My wife and I started in Feb. 98, cold : yes 6 degrees at times. Other thru hikers : no! there were 2 inexperienced back packers at Springer shelter. They left next morning and went back home . Too cold for them and rain. No other hikers till Mt Crossings. There was one guy there . Pipes frozen, no heat. We enjoyed it. No bugs, no people, shelter to ourselves.

[@Willy-hs7uu]

Seems launching times have changed, I used to section hike the AT back in the 90's, my biggest section was Springer to Damascus. I started in Early March, because in those days most thru hikers started in April. lean tos were basically empty, and even went a day without seeing another hiker, in Georgia, I really didn't get to see many hikers until I reached the Smokies. after that there were hikers, but was not crowded.

[@tenfourproductionsllc]

It's insane that people start in February or Early March. It's much more expensive (look at all the zero days people take in towns) and people drop out right and left because they didn't bring enough cold weather gear and didn't know how to keep dry. The difference between start March 1 and starting April 10 is less than 2 miles per day extra to arrive at Katahdin at the same date.

[@albertreed966]

I used to think that I wanted to hike the AT but, after this video, not so much! I am a former Truck Driver that has experienced more traffic jams through out the U.S. and Canada than I care to think about. I visualize an I-95 traffic jam and then a traffic jam on the trail, NO THANKS!. I am too old and out of shape to even consider it! The AT was a dream for soooo long but common sense says, just read about it and be satisfied! Thanks for the info and your channel.

[@jimgargas2480]

Correct! Even if the trail was 100% paved I wouldn’t make it!

[@thepokemondentist4677]

I still watch you videos dude and please don't take them down. Such useful content. I hope you're doing well buddy.

[@GrizzintheWoods]

Currently thru hiking made it to Dicks Creek Gap taken two zeros and back on the trail tomorrow. I went thru those cold temperatures and I can vouch that there are hikers that did not have the gear for the single digits. Be prepared or start later! Safe travels!

[@FollowBigfoot]

Thanks for commenting and adding to the dialogue around this important topic Grizz. Enjoy your time Hiawassee!

[@tenfourproductionsllc]

Because people only look at their baseweight today. I see list after list where I know they are going to freeze and be miserable.

[@danielplainview4587]

I started my hike 3/16/15. Temperatures at night still dropped below freezing in PA in May. If I ever did it again, I'd start in April for sure.

[@royconnell2506]

Great information . New hikers watch the ultra light guys and girls , and that doesn’t give them the gear for the conditions need. Keep up the good work 👍👍👍👍

[@DevilDawg2008]

I fit into the UL category (4-season baseweight: 9.18lb) and I go out in the winter good to 0⁰F. If you're willing to spend the money, UL can be as safe and considerably more comfortable.

[@TheQbanol]

I listen carefully to each of your videos, and I think they are very good, I am one of those who wants to start early in January, I understand that everything I have to buy will be more expensive and even heavy, therefore I am putting my eyes on things that support up to -30 F, I want to arrive at ME before the park closes in October, so my daily average will not be more than 10 miles (walking every day), I will not go to hotels, or eat In restaurants, my goal is to complete the trail. I plan to prepare two backpacks and at the end of winter send for the second backpack and send the first one to the house, and I want to start in 2021 but if I can't do it in 2022, I am in the second five-year period of my fifth decade, and I have to take my time.

[@CloverHikes]

Boy was this prescient. I am watching so many vloggers spending days and days off trail at hotels and shelters. Lots of older folks, who may have the $$ to do so, and probably started early because they thought it would take them longer.

[@jpjpjp453]

I started March 24th last year and heard that it was pretty rough earlier in the month. As far as goals, i divided the trail into 44 section hikes. Sorta makes it easier going from one point to another in smaller bounds rather than a 2000 mile plus A to B.

[@RandomPerson1]

Would you say that this was a good time to head out? I'm thinking late March.

[@paulao7022]

@@RandomPerson1 It can get very cold in April. I've seen snow in April.

[@RandomPerson1]

@@paulao7022 I ended up starting mid April '21 and finished my thru early Oct. One of the best times of my life.

[@paulao7022]

@@RandomPerson1 I'm glad, that you came back, to tell the story hon.

[@Havoc_Unlimited]

Late March is when I did my section hike of Georgia last year, I plan on doing some of NC early on April. As I get closer to the Smokys I’ll wait longer into the month. Section hikers have some fun too!

[@osgiliath4]

I really like that you used those images as a visual representation of the people your were referring to. It made it really easy to follow the stories! Also now I'm pretty sure that little bike has a lot of hiking knowledge.

[@Merc4life]

Take a Test Run!!! I’m interested in a thru-hike, so I’m planning a 100 mile Test Run on AT trails to get familiar with my equipment and my abilities. Don’t rush anything, plan it out, try it out, and be responsible.

[@neurodivergentlily]

This is the fastest one of my interests has been softened into a healthy interest instead of close-obsession. Thank you.

[@Hiker63]

You’re correct about March of 2017. We had below zero day time temps with rain and yes, a couple of people had to be rescued for hypothermia and fractures from falls do to icing of the trail.

[@tompresley4780]

Roaming Gnome, Download WhatsApp so I can message you. I'm in Afghanistan as a contractor. For sure doing a thru-hike 2020. -Big Country

[@HikerBiker]

Great video, I started my 2018 thru-hike attempt April 9th (66th birthday) hoping to avoid the worst of the weather and had great weather through Georgia until leaving Top of Georgia Hostel when all hell broke loose with the wind and rain. Got to a shelter in NC soaking wet and woke up to a blanket of snow and everything frozen. I'm from the PNW (think north end of the PCT) so I wasn't expecting snow and below freezing temps in April in the South, especially at such low elevation. Needless to say the Smokies weren't much better, no snow but lots of rain, wind and cold. Never seen so many thunder storms than when hiking the AT. Unhappy to say I had to bail out at about 1430 miles including the approach trail but am very happy with what I did accomplish. Hoping to get back to complete my hike or maybe just start all over again. I learned a hell of a lot about hiking the AT on my attempt, beautiful country.

[@PInk77W1]

Damn. 1430 is amazing for your age. I’m 62. Hoping to start 4-1-23. NB I walked 18miles yesterday in 5.5hrs No backpack. Almost klld me.

[@HikerBiker]

@@PInk77W1 If your start plan is 4-1-22 you're a bit late, maybe 4-1-23? I've backpacked since the '70s plus cycle 4-5 times/week so until a-fib hit me 2 years ago I was in good shape.

[@PInk77W1]

@@HikerBiker yes 2023. I’ve cycled across the USA 4 times. Oct. 1. I will ride from Coleman Tx to Key West Fl. 1700mi. Been cycling all my life. I’m afraid of the rain for sure. Days on end of rain is no joke.

[@the1andonlyicy59]

EXTREMELY helpful!! I really appreciate all your research and the different sources you used. AND thank you for calling attention to the hygiene issue💩which will become a heath🤮issue if people don’t act responsibly. Great job!

[@wineberryred]

I stated June 5th at Springer and I was able to finish the trail. I don't know of anyone that finished that started later than I did. I loved hiking behind everyone because it gave me a chance to catch up to a lot of straglers.

[@tenfourproductionsllc]

And you know something, the very worst that can happen starting that late is one would have to flip=flop.

[@GAsoulsurfer]

That’s awesome! When did you finish? Bet you had some great weather, at least to start.

[@wineberryred]

@@GAsoulsurfer I finished on November 16th at Delaware Water Gap after flipping in late August. I enjoyed seeing the people we had been following getting ready to finish. The final month and a half was a little lonely on the trail.

[@GAsoulsurfer]

@@wineberryred Well done! Any interest in another long trail?

[@williambranham6249]

Good advice. We hiked the trail 20 years ago. Very few hostels then. We started in Feb. Mt Crossings was a life saver due to low temps. Their pipes were frozen but being inside was nice. We had the proper equipment and not in danger , but it was still nice to be in solid structure. If the situation is right I like your idea of starting in Harpers Ferry or Penn- Mar in late April and heading north for many reasons. Good video.

[@uptrail7169]

Very Good! One of the thru hikers that I'm following started in late February. So far he has had overall good weather and is now past Charlie's Bunion in the Smokies. He got lucky because I've seen what others have gone through at this time in past years.

[@KAFKUBA]

Are you talking about Betty White?

[@TheIndianaGeoff]

I’d have to say April 25th, because it’s not too hot, not too cold. All you need is a light jacket!

[@CharlesTriesToRetire]

Last March I did a section hike through the Georgia section. It was amazing. We had freezing rain, snow, ice and below freezing weather for most of the trip. I loved it. Nothing builds character like fitting as many people as possible in a shelter in the hopes that it will ward off hypothermia! In reality it wasn't that bad if you were an experienced hiker, but the new folks looked pretty miserable.

[@paulao7022]

You must be young!

[@CharlesTriesToRetire]

@@paulao7022 I'm almost 50 😆😆😆

[@paulao7022]

@@CharlesTriesToRetire Wow. You must be in amazying, good health!

[@SieSo]

I started Feb 8th and have zero regrets. Had a great time and I saw the trail in a way most people don't. If I thru hiked again I might even start earlier

[@DevilDawg2008]

Lol, as someone who has lived in GA for more than 25 years, I can say GA weather sucks. I remember that day where the wind chill temp was -4⁰F. I almost froze that winter one day out on the trail. Went to bed at 28⁰F, woke up at -7⁰F and it had snowed and iced. Put in a 28 mile day to get back to my car and get down off the mountain.

[@Jan.harvey]

Thanks for all of your videos- I'm going with the ATC suggestion-- Springer Mountain North to Harpers Ferry, W.V.; Katahdin South to Harpers Ferry. Mid-April to early May Start Start at Springer Mountain after April 15 and hike north, reaching Harpers Ferry, W.V. in middle of July; then flip to Katahdin and hike south to Harpers Ferry, ending in the first half of November!

[@EarlyRiser71]

Great vid and content BF! Starting in March or earlier is not for everyone. But if I did it again. I would start in early to mid February again. I only had 4 days over 80 deg the whole hike, and stayed ahead of Spring which equaled max views. I got the opportunity to hike in that cold spell in Mar 2017 and loved the challenge of having Noro and hiking in 8 deg temps at the same time! My character added a few more feet of foundation during that one. Thanks for what you do buddy!

[@patriciamoscato6586]

Any comments re: april.then your done insept.is it cold in sept

[@driftlessjoinery5059]

Great info. Due to my job, I'll never be able to start prior to mid-May and have to be back around September 1. A thru hike isn't in my future, but 2 summers of 3 months hiking isn't a bad deal either.

[@tobyintransit2533]

Driftless Joinery Cool! Same thing! My job doesn’t end till May 15th, so I plan to start around May 22nd. If I can’t finish this year, then I’ll plan to do the rest in 2020. Maybe I’ll see you out there. Good luck 🍀👍

[@driftlessjoinery5059]

@@tobyintransit2533 I'm booked up this summer with other commitments. My start is Mid-May 2020. Hope to have 90 days or so to get me to Harpers Ferry. Then finish summer of 2021....then I'm either hiking or biking the continental divide. Have an awesome time!

[@GuadalupePicasso]

I’ve become an accidental section hiker, and I’ve grown to accept and love the idea. I attempted a thru-hike way back in 2007 (hardly feels that long ago!!!!), and had to get off in Damascus, VA due to a leg injury that was major enough to get off, to keep it from becoming even worst (stress fracture). Sadly, I didn’t hike much over the next 10 years, all of which changed last spring, with even bigger hikes this year. Now, I’m planning on hiking the New Jersey and New York sections on the AT, roughly 150 miles. Next year, I plan on hiking Pennsylvania and Maryland, right into Harpers Ferry (I walked the 4 miles there once while driving home from a trip in DC). By that point, my hope is that my boss sees that I’m serious about this, and will give me a month off the following year, so as to tackle all of Virginia at once. By that point, I’ll be left with Connecticut-Maine. Still a decent chunk left, but easier to knock out, since I live in the northeast.

[@Corn_DOG]

Great point! I was excited to follow the new class and one dude who started in Feb dropped out in TN due to weather... I was like DUH! YOUR HIKING IN THE MTs IN THE WINTER YOU GOOFBALL!

[@marythompson9222]

I remember Bob sir packs a lot from 2005-6 so nice to hear he's still there!

[@jeffs6229]

This is a great video speaking a hard reality for many thru hikers who are new to backpacking. March definitely has winter weather down here and winter backpacking is not really for beginners. I think a lot of folks start in March because they want to be done before it gets too warm. Better to hike in the early morning when the weather starts getting hot. Thanks for this informative and timely video!

[@illuminatedbearpig]

I started my Thru hike late March (March 23) and am not regretting it at all. There have been some cold nights, rainy nights and even a tornado watch with 70+ mph winds so far. Although I’ve dealt with those conditions, the bugs haven’t been an issue (no ticks yet) and I’m in line to walk right into trail days in Damascus. I think more hikers should use non-traditional hiking strategies. Flip flops, sobo hikes, etc. the trail would be in better shape for sure! When 2000 or more people leave in the same 30 day period, many sections of the trail get overused and erode quickly. There are a lot of things to consider but besides having the gear to make it, make sure you keep your down and clothing dry!! Pack covers aren’t enough, liners are a life saver. I’m using a garbage bag and have always been able to keep everything bone dry. We’ve had a hypothermia scare in my bubble, someone was evacuated out of the smokies in the snow, their gear was soaked and they couldn’t keep warm. Just think as you go and think ahead, don’t take chances, take the time to pack everything away in liners or dry sacks, especially in the early wet months, happy hiking everyone! Hike the hike you want, if you want to roll into trail days in the parade of hikers rather than finding someone to hitch you back or rushing through those beginning sections before you have your trail legs, a March hike is traditional, many have done it before you with heavier, less-forgiving gear. Some would say it’s “crowded,” but if the AT is a social experience for you, then I would consider it a comfortable amount of people with a broad range of experiences. If you’re hurt, someone will walk by If you have no service and need to call out to someone, someone will have a cell phone with a different provider If you’re cold and can’t start a fire, someone will know how If you need to lean on fellow hikers, stick to the shelters and there will always be 3-7 camping around you. Just my few cents, a March start has worked out for me and it has some advantages. It also has a sense of community that you might not get starting other times.

[@dirtygirl8082]

Love your videos. Started my thru hike March the 2 in 2018 and had the time of my life. It was really cold with snow and ice, it was great, but I’m a winter person so you’re right it is not for everyone. Summited Mt Katahdin August 20 2018 😊🇩🇰

[@alyishiking]

I started April 23, 2016 also. Hiked slow for the first month, hit the Smokies mid May. I'll never forget a near sleepless night in my 40 degree sleeping bag at Double Spring Gap Shelter as the temps dropped into the 20s. A surprise front had rolled through. The next morning, it was 30 degrees, sunny, windy so it felt way colder. The trees were covered in ice and it was so gorgeous. I probably would have stopped to take some pictures if it wasn't so damn cold. I was wearing every item of clothing I had and ran up to Clingman's dome to get a ride into Gatlinburg. It was May 14. Good times. Got back on the trail after a zero and it was a lot warmer. Didn't deal with cold temps at all after that. The Smokies will pull a fast one on you no matter how late you hit them, guaranteed. Can't wait to go back to them in a couple years, in April this time. I think I'll be more prepared with my 10 degree bag.

[@paulao7022]

We all live and learn.. well most of us do!

[@CampLife138]

You might want to get a negative degree bag. Or start later. Plan right, pack light, see more.

[@alyishiking]

@@CampLife138 So I successfully completed the trail last year with a 15 degree Katabatic quilt (conservatively a 15, it's more like a 10) and only had a couple nights that were uncomfortably cold due to freak weather. I highly recommend Katabatic.

[@blessedarmadillo8257]

Love how you talked to some "boots on the ground" (local, experienced people). This is a key differentiator in this video, separates it from the other bloviators on the inter-webs. That, and of course your own good personal experience.

[@kellycarlen9605]

Like the graphics and cut aways! You saying the number one reason people quit is it wasn’t meeting expectations is interesting.

[@MrHardPressed]

I thruhiked in 86. Started on April 19. I was happy to avoid all the people, parties and congestion. BTW, on blood mtn, my water bottle froze and on Tray Mtn it was a Blizzard. Ended up finishing 6 mo/5days later. In Baxter, they close the mtn in Mid Oct and only allow hikers to finish when weather permits. It was warm and clear for me. Snowed 9 inches in September at Pinkham notch. Subzero windchill over Mtn Washington. Happy Hiking!

[@woodsman335]

Thanks for focusing on cold and pushing warm gear and the extra weight it creates

[@davidw.schuetz3546]

One of the best vids I've seen so far. Right down to the brass tacks and very important info. Thanks for making this.

[@deborahkyllo9626]

Hi Bigfoot, love your videos. My husband and I started to section hike the AT last year at the end of May during heavy rainfall from Hurricane Alberto. Hiked the the approach trail to Fontana. One zero day in Franklin. We had been backpacking in the Smokies for 20 years...we didn’t realize until we started our section hike that our beloved Helly Henson rain gear was going to fail us. We were soaked but luckily it was not too cold and we had plenty of other warm gear. My husband can also start a fire in just about any conditions. Good advice to do a section to find out about the performance of your gear. We were able to finish our planned section and purchase new gear afterward. Thanks for your advice.

[@joshuamcglothlin4076]

Great video. I sectioned hiked GA in march with my nephew and the weather was terrible. We actually gave a thru-hiker a ride to the bus station who was calling it quits. If I was a thru-hiking I would probably look at starting closer the beginning of April.

[@brianhollien9579]

Dude, spot on! I started on March 3rd and all but about 3 days so far have been cold, rainy, or both.

[@richkearney1093]

This is a really well thought out and well said video! The T-Shirts are dope too! I completely agree with you about a Georgia section hike being the PERFECT place to get ready for an A.T. thru hike...you get a lot of what the trail has to offer within those first 3-5 days. Thanks for making these videos...they helped me not be such a dummy when I did my 1st thru hike last year. And as a lover of the A.T., I especially appreciate your commitment to trying to teach hiker etiquette and LNT values! Good luck with your channel and with your hikes... F-Ward

[@rossb.7471]

Fascinating video! I've been section hiking for a couple years now. I live in Nantahala and I hike in January and February all the time. Personally I don't think it's a big deal. I love hiking in winter. People just need to use their weather app and if a nasty storm is coming, be prepared or take a break. But it seems like 80% of the time I'm able to hike no problem in January.

[@kenjett2434]

We'll I am 62 and have had 4 spine surgeries so doubt I will be able to take on the challenge. But I sure wish I could seeing I use to be a trained Scoutmaster for a Boy Scout Troop. We trained regulary on winter hiking and camping and wish I was able to take the challenge of starting a winter AT through hike. I had to give up being a Scoutmaster I just was no longer able to keep up the pace of a large group of teenage boys. But if I was to hike at my own pace given time I might just still be able pull off a long distance hike. Sure is tempting anyway.

[@peaksandvalleys1187]

Did a section hike from Neels Gap to Dicks Creek Gap. I had to show almost everyone I camped with how to PROPERLY hang a bear bag. No joke my first night there was a bag hung 4ft off the ground.

[@rogersmith9628]

Hi Bigfoot. I really enjoy your videos. I'm a Georgian and I can attest to our unpredictable March weather. In March of 93 we had a historic blizzard that folks still talk about. We never know if we'll have a mild, warm or cold March. This year it was mild but we had several days of extensive rain. March is Georgia's bipolar month.

[@PiffExplores]

I'm planning an AT ThruHike in 2020 and this was SO helpful!!

[@firefighter2699]

Piff Explores I’ll be at Springer Mt either later April or the first week of May next year haven’t narrowed down a specific date just yet but I’m physched

[@GuadalupePicasso]

Mark Dieffenbach are y’all out hiking now?

[@iberiksoderblom]

Its standard south-Scandinavian temps and climate. Just today we had hard winds, heavy rain that switched to wet snow, then hail, then clear sun and temps around +5 celsius (41 F), then a little rain and then temps fell to -4 celsius (25 F). It eats your body core temp !!! With wet clothes, its like if you go through the ice. Something that you as a soldier here train and practice for a good reason every year. Sound like some people should be more serious in preparing for the AT, and be more realistic about own abilities and how to handle risks ? Starting in January they should maybe learn a little from the Sirius Dog Sled Patrole on Greenland. And I HATE a crowded trail !!!

[@traildog_adventures]

Ib Erik Söderblom the northern Appalachians, Md/Pennsylvania North, is the same but most people in the US don't think of the cold when they think of the Southern States.

[@donmartin9567]

Thanks for the Video. I'm liking your videos more as I watch them more, not sure why, justa comment. Based upon your comments of the number of people who drop out early and their excuses it would seem to me that they are ill prepared to be out there in the first place. They must not have done their research, likely haven't bedded in their gear and have done little backpacking. Perhaps the first recommendation would be for folks to try out backpacking the year before. Find a spot where you can go for a multi-day hike and see what it is like. Then, (assuming you have a lawn / yard where you live), wait for a stretch of really bad rainy / cold weather, go out for a short hike around your neighbourhood, wearing all your gear, long enough to get good and wet (only need 15- 20 minutes), then back home, make camp, set up your tent, cook dinner and see what it is like. While you should sleep in your shelter overnight, if not, leave your gear where you normally would and then check things out in the AM to see if all remains dry.

[@FollowBigfoot]

Great advice Don! About the videos, I think the 5-6 months that I took a break from KZbin really helped my content, creativity and taught me to slow down and focus more attention of making better content videos. I am feeling really good on how the vids have turned out this year thus far.

[@fuzielectron5172]

Good video Bigfoot, I just bought trekking poles and your video brought me to your channel. Similarly good comment Don. I am new to hiking videos and the concept of thru-hiking. I appreciate people have the urge to get out and do it! But really think they should shake down, test their gear and develop skill sets. For example, after many years of taking hordes of kids, nieces and nephews, their friends, etc car camping in the summer, some of them are wanting to try hiking as they have gotten older which is very cool. Ages range between 12 and 18 years old. When they were younger having six or seven of them at a time could be testing. Quite simply what I do is take them out for an overnighter the first few times. I have a planned 12 mile route. Car is parked up with (unknown to them) car camping equipment. Get their packs on and walk a circuitous route which five miles in has a comfortable refuge hut available, if weather conditions are good and they are doing well continue onto mile ten (or as near as can be managed) and overnight out of the packs. If they or their equipment is not coping, we can pack up as required and walk one to two miles back to the car (they don't realise this) and break out the dry and warm stuff they are familiar with. If it goes well, next time out is in foul weather. Time after that, out for longer. These first trips "always" raise issues with their chosen equipment, clothing or skill sets and most learn quickly and plan better for their next trip. I was no different when I started and figure it's pretty much the same for everybody.

[@WILDONTHETRAIL]

Rock solid advice. I wish everyone could see this. IMO, one of the most important vids out there. Well researched. Thanks for well presented info and experience👍

[@scotty8630]

Hi Bigfoot. I was the guy who bought all new gear at Neal's Gap the other year. The reason I only lasted one more day was that my knees couldn't hold me up any more. I still don't know what happened. I think the time I fell going up Blood Mountain messed me up. I will be trying next year again. This time I will be much more careful with my legs. I will be travelling much lighter. Great vid.

[@angelageier1574]

I live by blood mountain. I have been doing Yohan to get ready for next season. Starting the planning and money saving now.

[@MizSazz]

Did you?

[@DWNY358]

To support your point #4- there was a big problem with norovirus (or Norwalk virus) on the trail last year.

[@HDCrumbsnatcher]

i started a thru hike in March 2002, APRIL 1999 & one in February 2003 good times :)

[@peterlaughlin930]

Great video some of your best information to date you’re one of the channels that I fall the most always learn something thank you

[@airic499]

Section hiker but been camping forever. As you and everyone said, weather. I grew up camping in all weathers and so I am used to rain and cold and snow; in fact embrace it. But it is a different animal than nice weather camping and hiking. I would definitely agree if you want to start March or earlier, get in some serious practice camping in cold, snow and rain when you can get in the car and go home. Someplace between Woody Gap and Mountain Crossing is no place to have to camp in a cold snow storm for the first time with Wally World gear.

[@marcusvaldes]

Gotta say though, the last week here in Georgia (March 16-23) has been spectacular weather in 2019!

[@samuelalley7331]

When it comes to mountains, you prepare the same as you would as If it was full-blown winter. That is the unpredictability of mountains. If you prepare in such a way than it shouldn't matter when you start. Everyone should be very well versed about freezing conditions and ready all the time every time. Only then will you have nothing to worry about. Practice small hikes in cold weather and you will good to go.

[@Wingman115]

Great info. I’m seeing too many hikers starting to early this year on the PCT. we have had some crazy weather. The sierras will be packed with snow and the run off will be crazy.

[@allnighter10]

Wow! You did an excellent video touching on so much info. Well done!! I look forward to you videos and get a lot of good and useful/useable info from older videos as well. I plan to start April 29th following the Flip-Flop Festival in Harpers Ferry and head NOBO. If I make it to Katahdin as hoped I may swing back to my childhood state and go the rest of the way on the Long Trail before doing the SOBO route from HF. I want to stay out of the South and FL for most of the summer. :) Thanks!!

[@DollarBlazing]

Well I was all set to step foot on trail on March 1st of 2022. Now I may reconsider and start a little later. Thank you for all the wonderful information!

[@CA-fh5zt]

I’m hiking the AT on 2022 too!

[@MagisterCobb]

April 1 used to be the “traditional start” date for a lot of NOBO’s. That date has moved well into March. The last couple of seasons, I have seen a huge spike in folks with February starts. I think some folks are staring earlier to avoid the bubble and thus create a new bubble. That and winter gear has gotten so much better. Some years (see 2017 and Early Riser in particular) the February start doesn’t hit a lot of bad weather. ER had very little snow, at least what was shown on his videos. Other years (see 2018 and Scoutmaster) the February folks get pounded with snow. This year, not a lot of snow but a TON of rain in February and March. The non-completion rate is still pretty high.

[@tenfourproductionsllc]

Because so many people simply just take zero days to start the trail these days. In fact, there's an entire industry on the southern part of the trail that caters to those who do just that. The ultralights are the first (and the one's with the most cash) who dart off the trail the moment a freeze chance happens. You even got 50 DOLLAR A NIGHT BUNKHOUSES now. It's nuts.

[@GuadalupePicasso]

spatrick1964 geez, $50 for a hostel?!

[@paulao7022]

A lot of rain, makes the trails slippery. I suggest, a good walking stick!

[@mtadams2009]

I am from New England and ski and work outside a lot. Starting the AT in January or February sounds miserable. I think April first would be great.

[@duke7715]

Found it extremely helpful, Zero experience, Live in ny, lowest part of at Purchased gear, not the lightest, but tried to match to Conditions, goals, money, Section hiking will be on my second set of goals, 1st, just walk with day pack, Then increase as I go, work on experience, thanks again, PS , your vid on trek poles, No one else, big help !

[@TexasNightRider]

Probably the best common sense and informative channel on KZbin regarding hiking.

[@bobhamulak3646]

Sounds like alot of good advice and wisdom! ...especially about how your pride can cloud your judgement. Thanks!

[@markburrell2778]

Keep cold weather gear until after Trail Days.

[@user-mp9xz8yg4j]

Thank you for this video! I always thought it was good to prepare for the worst possible weather, temperature conditions. This just makes it even clearer that it will most likely be cold and wet in March in Georgia.

[@blessedarmadillo8257]

One more problem with hiking "with the masses" in March - Norovirus. Because of the sheer number of the masses clustering at the front in of the trail, and the fact that many of them are inexperienced and eager to share and congregate + time of year when Norovirus is more prevalent, the result is one big virus cluster. So if diarrhea and vomiting are on your check list, go ahead and show up in March, otherwise reconsider.

[@kentuckytokatahdin3063]

Thanks for the reassurance, Bigfoot! The anticipation is killing me, but I’m sticking with my start date of April 17th for many of those reasons you mentioned! I enjoy your videos, they have been very helpful in planning my trip! Hope you’ll follow my journey! -Kentucky

[@cjt5mith]

Great video. I have always been planning to start in late April, with a lighter pack and move faster to finish by the end of September. Most of my reasons are discussed here.

[@BigOldScout]

Thanks for the video. I was thinking about starting in February, but now I'll look at the first week of April. I want to be finished by the end of September.

[@felipecastellon4740]

Thank you for putting out the realities of the trail including the ultimate price. I do bits and pieces of the pct from campo to San Jacinto. This year I already had to self arrest in LA mountains close to Wrightwood in the Mt Baldy area. It's a high snow year and the creeks that some years are trickling are roaring this year. My son that lives in the Rockies said that he believes it is a higher snow year there than in '16-'17 which was a high snow year. I think that people need to be prepared in SoCal and if so it's not necessary to quit. I know of one person that got off trail and will attempt in April. San Diego County has the highest peak at Hot Springs at approx 6500 feet which is that mountain to the right when you are at Warner Springs which is only 3000 feet. Get through the Lake Morena and Laguna, it will descend and the snow at that level changes week to week. The Sierras are going to be a challenge regardless of the time you go there. In June of 2017 it was 109 degree in the I-10 corridor between Jacinto and Big bear and there was snow on the north face of Mt San Gorgonio, the highest peak in SoCal at 11500 feet which you will go around going to Big Bear. By this time thru hikers should already be out of SoCal but this is to help you understand the conditions.Sorry for the long post.

[@Outofthelimits]

Well said. From what I've seen this year in Norcal we may not have exceeded '17 snow totals, but we also haven't had much rain to melt it off. Lot of cold storms moving through. The snowpack is deep. I'll stick to skiing for the next couple months :D

[@erikgiggey4783]

there are some that take off to early that are going way to fast to match conditions, by this i mean the weather down south may be great but if your pulling 20+ mile avgs your going to hit the long trail during mud season(yes its worse pre memorial day) the whites may still have snow(as er71) and northern maine is in a near record snow year, we have had 12 ft of snow this season so far. im not sure of the kahtadin area but getting into the new england area in what for the south could be a nice spring you may hit this cold mess. i know of 1 hiker that is already past the smokies and he is only 10 days in. -12f yesterday morning here would love the temps down there lol hoping for safe hiking for all no matter the trail

[@johnwilliams-dg6qx]

That's incredibly helpful

[@Zengirl153]

Great video. Watching the weather issues again this year. I think if more people started later, they could stay on the trail longer.

[@kdavis4910]

Everyone starts so early now. I'm starting later myself.

[@Sunshine-Patches2024]

We’re starting in January even though it’s cold. We actually like cold weather hiking and take safety precautions, plus it’s early enough that if the weather got below teens we have plenty of time to take a couple of zero’s at a hostel if need be. You can actually stay at hostels pretty much all the way through GA, NC & TN during the extreme weather conditions. The only place you cannot is the Smokey Mtn’s. However, we will check the weather first before going through the smokies. I’ve been in the smokies in March and it’s covered with snow, deep snow.

[@trailcat71]

Excellent video!!! Very useful advice. Thanks for sharing and taking time to interview people at ground zero... I know you have been as well but its always good to hear other's perspective. Its how you learn!

[@jeffanderson2759]

I remember backpacking Blood Mtn. in Mar. 73. There was 6" of snow and 2' of ice. Temp. was 28* wind chill was 15*.

[@tombrown6628]

Very good informative no bs video. Have never hiked but watch videos of people suffering as they have to drop out for the very reasons you have mentioned.

[@bravegirlarise7672]

Lots of good advice! Thanks! And love the shirt!

[@LittleBird-r8i]

I'm doing the AT next year. I have no other choice, I need to get back home end of August for school and sense I'm hiking the AT for the first time I want to give myself 5 months, so I need to start end of march. I really hope 2024 is a warmer year.

[@EspenFrafalne]

I used to be really envious of the people in the US who had all these really long trails - but when i think of the idea of being pressed to hike 12 miles/20km on average every day (to finish the AT in 6 months) i realize that hiking around "freely" is much more enjoyable. Very happy i live in Norway, where i can wildcamp almost anywhere i want legally, and not having to worry about bears. Although i still worry a bit about the dreaded bloodthirsty moose XD

[@mtadams2009]

Hiking 12 miles a day is very low by most people’s standards. Most people I knew on the AT were doing way more miles than that. It’s really not that hard, it’s simply walking. Start in shape and don’t carry a bunch of unnecessary crap. Long distance hiking in the US is an awesome experience.

[@karhopr2689]

Thanks for the reply...I am planning and organizing my trip for 2019 and follow you and a few others that give insight and information that is useful and truly helpful. You four or five give thought that one size doesn’t fit all and there are options to consider for any type hiker. I am not a new camper or backpacker but this trip is in sorts a whole new adventure and your information is a big help so keep up the the good work!

[@bobbyboombeck]

Hey @bigfoot thank for all the fantastic vids. I'm starting my JMT thru-hike in August and have a couple quick qustions: 1) When cold do you just sleep in your socks and that's good enough? Down booties unnecessary? and 2) Do you ever listen to music, podcasts on the trail? Or are you just in the moment the whole time? Thanks a ton.

[@trailtimewithblaze4874]

I’ll be at Amicalola in 2days thinking about this video lol ⛰

[@danielkutcher5704]

2020👍👍, Very much appreciated. I'm planning a 2021 thru, haven't decided how, exactly, NOBO, mid-April, or inside-out flip. Thanks!

[@steventricamo6754]

I'm planning on 2021 also, but thinking about March 15. I'm from upstate NY, so lousy conditions are the norm. Great vids so far.

[@williamvanscottnelson2605]

I'm planning for a through hike on the AT in 2021.

[@evilalec555]

2021 Nobo thinking about late March

[@tworley210]

The first day of spring seems a reasonable start time yet there will still be some nasty days.

[@charliekendall4288]

Cat Holes. Carry out the sanitary wipes bc they do not compose bc they are nylon not cotton.

[@davidcolinstillman5585]

ENJOYED ! THANK YOU FOR YOUR EXPERIENCE & YOUR FRIENDS INPUT TOO! HELPS OUT A LOT WETHER THROUGH HIKING OR SECTION HIKING! BE SAFE! HAVE FUN! GOD BE WITH YOU'LL ALWAYS!

[@davidson_oldbull_sectionhiker]

Very, very good video a lot of what you covered could also work for a long section hiker. Thanks

[@thebrizzy]

I’m in Tennessee. It was a beautiful 70 degrees today.

[@atmako1]

Great content....glad to see you still making videos,are you planning on going to trail days this year...it sure seems like this year is typical and tough....I'm following some hikers this year and most are spending more nights in hostels or motels than in the woods....that seems to be a combination of weather and experience from what I gather.....I have yet to attempt a thru hike but have hiked the sections from GA through NJ,many of the southern sections numerous times....your spot on about the Smokies weather,I actually did the Smokies in February and the snow was over 2 foot near Spencefield shelter...my group was the only people on the trail as we broke ground(snow) through the Smokies ...I still remember how my knees felt....recovering from a hip replacement here at the house dying to get back out....I'm doing country road walks for now...living near Pearisburg VA there are many days hikes for me to hike as my recovery progresses...have plans for a fall hike NJ-MA in late September...which me luck- happy trails Bigfoot ...

[@keithstewart2639]

One great video I hope it opened a lot of people's eyes that are going to hike

[@limulus61]

Good video. I agree totally about the lack of bathroom etiquette: In 2017, my wife and I did a day hike from Unicoi gap up to Indian Grave Gap and then to the top of Tray Mtn. There was so much TP on the side of the trail and I mean 3ft or less off the trail. This was probably in Feb. Very disgusting to see. BTW, this year the weather seems to be OK except for rain the rest of March in GA.

[@wadedavis5727]

Very helpful info! Some of the best, most useful info I have seen on the AT!

[@Willy-hs7uu]

About the topic of people leaving the trail at those crossings, as I have hiked in those areas a lot couple decades ago, here are some of the most common reasons. and how to avoid them when possible. Hikers are not in shape it's too hard and often get injured. how to solve/prevent/avoid. 1) Don't over pack, lighten up there are many good videos on this topic, 2) TAKE IT SLOW, this is probably the number one mistake at the start, people have this schedule, that they have to do so many miles per day, and try to pull 12-16 miles a day from day one, unless your a seasoned hiker don't force yourself. take it slow the first couple weeks, let your body adjust, after two or three weeks, you will be stronger and tougher, and those 16-20 miles days will happen. 3) Injury, accidents can happen, one slip on a rock and an ankle twist later, and that's the end of the show. as you build strength, lose weight (both in gear and body) your chances of injury do go down. Blisters are a major issue with starting hikers, moleskin was my savior. again, take it slow, calluses will form where you need them, and skin will toughen up on your feet. and seen a couple people have to leave due to giardia, be careful how and where you get your water, filter and tablets even when in doubt. 4) Partners, this one I have seen so many times, partners whether it be a friend or life partner, decide to hike together, the plan is to split the load on some gear (example one carries the food, the other the tent ) looks good on paper, in the real world each person is different on their ability or on how they want to hike, specially the first few weeks, one person may be in much better shape, or is just a faster hiker, this can lead to frustrations, and the pressure to keep up, or the feeling you get when you believe you are slowing the other person down, and if one leaves for one of the reasons above, the other person may not want to continue. 5) For north bounders, if you can make it past the Smokies, you have gotten by the hardest physical challenges, the next challenge is the mental one, in Virginia, the hikers that "survived" are more spread out, friends have made earlier on, are either ahead of you, or behind you, or left the trail. the trail can get a bit boring and seem like a job. this is called the Virginia blues. I can't give you any advice here, this is something every individual must face, you have NO obligation to the trail or anyone else. all I can say, from what I have learned from other hikers, that once you get past the "blues" you get motivated again, and now you are set mentally. last challenge I think is PA, where I have been told, the locals sharpen the rocks on purpose to make life hell for backpackers, can anyone confirm? I never got to that part. marriage and 3 kids , has kept me off the trail, but hope to return some day.

[@jamesjahoda1613]

This is good advice for sure! When I was doing long trail runs I used to advise people to do long training runs in the worst weather. Learn to deal with wet feet and cold weather. Come race day, the experience could be the difference between a finish and a DNF. Or worse.

[@paulao7022]

It's very important to keep the feet dry and extra socks and a pair of extra shoes.

[@taylorwren3694]

Wow this information is awesome ... definitely just hit that subscribe button ...