BEGINNER Backpacking Trip on the Appalachian trail:
“ I LOVE the Appalachian Trail. I love the layers of mountains and the smell of the forest, but I also love how challenging it can be. I outlined some of the things I love most about this section of trail below and I would love for you to join me.”
We have one trip planned per season, Spring, Summer, and Fall
If you would like to request a different date, please fill out the form at the bottom of the page.
General Itinerary: Subject to change but this is the overview.
Day 1: We will meet at Nero Coffee and campground at 9:00 AM. If you would like to arrange to be picked up please let us know. You will get all your gear and food, go over the plans for the trip. You will get a full lessoon on backpacking best practices as you pack your pack to make you you are set up for success. By noon, we will head to Max Patch (1.5 hour drive), where you will start your hike.
Day 2: Most challenging day of hiking with 2 uphill climbs but we will take our time and make it happen. :)
Day 3: Early rise with coffee to get us going as we finish the hike to the town of Hot Springs where we’ll head straight to lunch and then to the Hot Springs for a relaxing soak to celebrate the hike.
What you will love about this trip
#1. Views on views on views!
This sections will start out on summit of Max Patch with some of the most amazing views of the whole AT - you’ll literally be surrounded by 360 degree mountain views (as long as it’s not socked in with fog - Realistic Expectations)
My dog Hootie enjoying the views on the summit of Max Patch.
#2. Great section of trail
The AT has some really challenging sections, but I think this section is the perfect level of challenge for a beginner backpacking trip. It has changes is elevation but the climbs are all doable if you are in pretty good physical shape. I have a passion for helping people connect to the outdoors and I wanted to guide a trip that is totally suitable for beginners (more experienced hikers will love it too!). If you’re curious if this trip is for you, part of booking with me includes a Zoom call to go over any questions or concerns you may have. I want you to feel excited and confident going in so you can have an epic trip!
We’ll follow the iconic white blazes of the AT. 😊
#3. There’s shelters for us to camp at along the way
The AT has shelters scattered up the trail, and we will spend one of two nights and one of these shelters. I prefer to sleep in a tent, but the shelter is great for cooking meals and making morning coffee. Of course there will be coffee included! We will, of course, be respectful of any other hikers along the trail and share the shelter with others - part of the trail experience.
One of the shelters where we’ll make some coffee together ☕️
#4 We’ll end the hike with a soak in the Hot Springs!
Since this hike will literally end smack in the middle of the adorable town of Hot Springs, NC I decided to include a soak at the springs included in this trip. Treat yo self! We’ll enjoy a lil soak at the hot springs before our shuttle back to home base.
A look at the riverside tubs in hot springs!
What’s Included:
All your gear! Tent, sleeping pad, sleeping bag, food, water filter, cooking gear, you got it! You just need to BYOB *bring your own backpack! I am happy to help you pick one out if you do not have one.
A pre-trip Zoom call with me before the hike to go over any questions like what to wear, what else to bring, etc. and make sure you’re all set!
Optional free night at Nero Coffee + Camp the night before and/or after the trip if that fits your schedule.
All meals as noted in the daily itinerary below.
Coffee from Nero Coffee of course, and your guide will happily make you a cup or two in the morning at the shelter. ☕️
Professional instruction and guiding. I want to help make sure you leave this trip a more confident backpacker.
Hot Spring Soak post hike
Accommodations:
Pre-trip - Optional Free night at Nero Coffee + Camp
Night 1 - Tent (provided)
Night 2 - Tent (provided)
Post Trip- Optional Free night at Nero Coffee + Camp
What Gear I’ll Provide for You:
Tent
Sleeping pad
Sleeping bag
Water Filter
Water Bottles
All trail meals (I’ll connect with you about any dietary restrictions prior)
All Group Cooking Gear
Group First Aid KiT
Bathroom Kit: Trowel, Toilet Paper, Ziplock Bags, Wipes, Hand Cleaner
Large Plastic Garbage Bag (it’ll keep your gear dry if it starts raining)
Coffee, of course.
What You’ll Bring:
I can provide recommendations for any of these things on our pre-trip call
Backpacking Pack (recommended 55-75L)
hiking shoes
Base Layer Tops and Bottoms (Midweight, Synthetic)
Hiking Pants (Convertible, Quick-Dry, Lightweight)
Hiking Socks (Synthetic or Wool)
Underwear
Insulated Jacket and/or Vest
Fleece/Wool Gloves
Fleece/Wool Hat
Fleece/Wool Jacket or Sweater
Headlamp with Fresh Batteries
Prescription Medications
Trekking Poles
Recommended but not required:
Rain Jacket (Hooded, Lightweight, Waterproof, Breathable)
Rain Pants (Lightweight, Waterproof, Breathable)
Sunblock and Lip Balm (Small)
Sunglasses
Bandana
Camp Towel
Casual Shoes for Camp
Insect Repellent
Personal Wipes
2024 Available Dates:
