Hiking the Appalachian Trail

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Thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail may be the ultimate goal for many a hiker, but not everyone gets the opportunity to take a go at it. However, you don't need five months off work to enjoy this historic trail. There are plenty of epic day hikes just waiting for you to explore along the AT. Below are some of the best hikes on this historic trail in the southeast.

Springer Mountain Loop

4.8 mi

6.3

This loop combines two historic long trails, the Appalachian Trail and the Benton MacKaye. Hike to the southern terminus of the AT at the summit of Springer Mountain, then walk the BMT to views and creek crossings.

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Siler Bald via Winding Stair Gap

8.7 mi

12.3

The longer route to Siler Bald is longer than it is difficult and makes a great day hike heading southbound on the Appalachian Trail. Siler Bald gives you 360-degree views on a short side trail.

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Blood Mountain via Bear Hair Gap Trail

9.2 mi

16.1

There are several ways to summit Blood Mountain and this is my favorite. Hiking to this popular summit is rewarding no matter which direction you come from.

One of the best hikes in the Smokies, Charlies Bunion lies just off the AT. Climb up this exposed rock to amazing views along the NC/TN state line.

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Wesser Bald via Tellico Gap

2.9 mi

5.8

Rise above the trees for 360-degree views from Wesser Bald's fire tower on this beautiful section of the Appalachian Trail within the Nantahala National Forest in North Carolina.

Take this short hike to an amazing view along the Appalachian Trail in north Georgia. At just an hour and a half from Atlanta, Preachers Rock makes a great day trip.

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Standing Indian Mountain

5 mi

6.4

Hike northbound along the Appalachian Trail to the summit of Standing Indian Mountain, the highest point in the Southern Nantahala Wilderness.

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Cheoah Bald via Stecoah Gap

11.1 mi

26.4

Hike southbound along the Appalachian Trail to the 5,062 ft summit of Cheoah Bald for stunning views to the southwest. Nestled in the Nantahala National Forest in North Carolina, Cheoah Bald is also the northern terminus for the Bartram Trail.

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Tray Mountain via Unicoi Gap

10 mi

23.9

Hike to two summits along this difficult 10 mile round-trip section of the AT.

Short and steep, this 1-mile round trip hike summits Albert Mountain and scores epic views in all directions from the fire lookout tower at the top.

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Disclaimer: Hiking can be dangerous. The information on this site is meant as a guide and represents trail conditions at a given time. Always let someone know where you are going. A basic knowledge of first aid, backcountry navigation, and some common sense are highly encouraged. The difficulty and duration ratings are subjective and will not be representative of everyone's experience.

Disclaimer Disclaimer: Falling off a cliff, drowning in a river, or being eaten by a bear is still a better way to go than dying of a heart attack while sitting in traffic on the way to the office.