Our Quilt Choice: Enlightened Equipment Enigma

The Enlightened Equipment Enigma is one of the most popular quilts for thru-hikers. It is very lightweight, packable, and has quality construction. It does come at the cost of having long lead times. This quilt is great for warmer sleepers and backpackers who are used to using quilts. Since it is not a normal sleeping bag, the back piece of the bag is open. Similar to Katabatic, this technique is to leave out the insulation part of the quilt that would otherwise be pressed against the sleeping pad and have very few insulative properties.

Buy at Enlightened Equipment

Feathered Friends Flicker Quilt

The Feathered Friends Flicker Quilt Sleeping Bag is perfect for the Appalachian Trail and the variable weather swinging from cold snow to humid heat. It functions great for shorter backpacking trips and camping adventures and that is exactly what you pay for. Sitting at a comparable price (and often lower) than other high-end premium bags, this simply performed better across a number of categories. We absolutely love how it can be opened fully like a blanket or cinched up tight like a mummy bag to hold in heat. This bag has plenty of room to move around at night and doesn’t constrict or let cold air in when it is not covering your entire body.

Buy on Feathered Friends

REI Magma 15 Sleeping Bag

Ultra-lightweight and with an interior made of plush nylon material, the Magma 15 comfort at its finest. It is one of the warmer bags that we recommend for the Pacific Crest Trail so we recommend this mostly for cold sleepers. The Magma has all the features found in high-end sleeping bags such as a draft collar, a trapezoidal foot tube, zipper draft tube, and variable-sized baffle construction. If you are looking for a sleeping bag to use during your hike and for shoulder season and off-season hiking for years to come, this is your best value.

Buy at REI (Mens)

Buy at REI (Womens)

Mountain Hardwear Bishop Pass 15 

A more affordable option than the Magma 15 and Flicker quilt, the Bishop Pass 15 is a great sleeping bag for outdoor enthusiasts on a budget. The durable construction, warmth, and top-notch comfort make this sleeping bag a total bargain. However, there’s slightly less room in this Bishop Pass 15 with tapered ends. As it typically goes with ultralight backpacking gear, this sleeping bag weighs more than many of the lighter bags on the list. But if you want something warm, quality, and durable for a lower price, this is the right fit.

Buy at REI

Therm-a-rest Corus 20 Quilt

The Therm-a-Rest Corus 20 Quilt is an excellent blend of affordable price, comfort, and weight. It’s especially beneficial for backpackers and thru-hikers looking to travel as light as possible. The warm-to-weight ratio comes in handy at higher elevations where the nighttime temperature is very cold, while also not sacrificing useless insulation and weight at lower elevations. This is a great option to combat the variability of the PCT. Unfortunately, the Corus 20 is not offered in smaller sizes and it can be a little big for shorter hikers. 

Buy at REI

Western Mountaineering UltraLite Sleeping Bag: 20F

The last product on this list but definitely not the least. The WM Ultralite is actually the most expensive sleeping bag and comes with several premium features – 850+ goose fill power goose down, down-filled ground collar, zipper tape guard, and continuous baffles. If you have the budget, the Ultralite is a no-brainer. 

Buy at Backcountry

The post Best Sleeping Bags for the Appalachian Trail appeared first on A.T. Thru Hiking.

Overview of the Appalachian Trail

The Appalachian Trail (AT) is a 2,190-mile hiking and backpacking trail traveling from Georgia to Maine. It is marked by white blazes and has more than 250 shelters along its’ route. The Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC) claims it is the longest hiking-only trail in the world. It traverses 14 states and gains roughly 402,000 feet along its length.

Three million people visit the Appalachian Trail each year according to the ATC, with only a fraction of those, deemed thru-hikers, attempting to backpack the trail’s entire length. Perhaps the biggest draw to backpacking on the AT is the community. Anyone who has hiked on the trail shares a strong bond that transcends religion, age, race, and political beliefs. Sitting so close to many of the largest cities in the country, the AT provides a corridor of nature and a window into a more natural pace of life.

The Appalachian Trail community is more than just the hikers. It consists of the locals in the towns that border the trails as many locals have shown to be willing to help hikers, these are deemed trail angels and are as much a part of a backpacker’s adventure as the actual hiking. 

Beyond community, the geographical diversity is staggering throughout the trail. The AT is full of mountain peaks, breathtaking valleys, meadows, and seemingly unending forests. Views are less common than in the west, but that also makes water sources and dense vegetation more prevalent.

To put the length of the Appalachian Trail into perspective, completing the trail is equivalent to climbing Mount Everest 16 times. The trail was first proposed in 1921 and eventually completed in 1937. The Appalachian Trail became a National Scenic Trail in 1968 (along with the Pacific Crest Trail)

The 14 States that the trail traverses are Georgia, North Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Vermont, New Hampshire, and all the way to Maine.

Sections of the Appalachian Trail

Georgia

If you intend to hike the entire trail, your journey begins at the Georgia section which is 78 miles long. The highest elevation here is the Blood Mountain (4,461 feet) while the lowest elevation is over 2500 feet. 

The high elevation of this section means it can be miserably cold. You’ll encounter snow if you visit between November and March/April. The Georgia section of the AT is usually crowded around March/April.

You won’t find a lot of plant life in the Georgia section. It’s a wilderness with rugged, albeit navigable paths. Your thru-hike journey can also end here if you start at the other end of the trail in Maine.

North Carolina

While the North Carolina section of the AT runs for 95.7 miles, there’s an additional 224.7 miles along the Tennessee/North Carolina border. The highest elevation of the AT can be found here at 6,643-foot (Clingmans Dome). 

As you’d expect, the conditions here are very cold and the climbs are more difficult. Thankfully, there are switchbacks to ease the pain. To hike the famous Great Smoky Mountains, you’ll need a permit. If you visit the Great Smoky Mountains in early spring, prepare for potentially harsh weather. 

Tennessee

This section of the AT runs for 94 miles and the elevation here is also over 6000 feet so you’ll be navigating incredibly high mountains. Expect very cold conditions here no thanks to the cold elevation.

This section boasts of sun-dappled forests and high summits carpeted in native grasses. You’ll need a permit for hiking the Great Smoky Mountains, so secure one before your trip. 

Virginia

The largest portion of the AT is in Virginia, 531 miles, and this represents about a quarter of the entire trail. The scenery here is a mixture of farmland and forest. It’s a beautiful sight to behold.

Scenery apart, the easily navigable and flat paths in this section make it suitable for beginners or people looking to hike in the easier sections of the AT.

This section also traverses the history-filled, rolling mountains of Shenandoah National Park. If you intend to camp at the park, you’ll have to secure a backcountry permit.

West Virginia

This section is short, spanning only 28 miles but it’s very popular as it’s home to the headquarters of the Appalachian Trail Conservancy. Hikers stop here to take photos and log their travels.

This section is blessed with several historical sites. There is a civil war museum, the location of John Brown’s Fort, and a number of interesting 19th century structures. 

You can’t camp in West Virginia but there are several hostels, private bed-and-breakfasts, and inns in town. If you must camp, you’ll find a couple of campgrounds near the town. 

Maryland

Spanning 41 miles, the Maryland section of the AT offers some of the gentlest terrains. Since the hiking here is moderate in difficulty, Maryland presents an opportunity for hikers to find out if they are ready for the harsher terrain of the AT. 

Maryland is home to historic sites and the best time to visit is from mid-April to mid-June or from September to October. The humidity and summer heat can sometimes be oppressive. It’s worth mentioning you can only camp in designated overnight sites in this section of the AT. 

Pennsylvania

The hiking community likes to refer to Pennsylvania as Rocksylvania and while there is no shortage of rocks in this section, there’s a lot more to it than rocks. There are also sweeping landscapes and several historic landmarks. 

The southern part of this section is easy to navigate thanks to the landscape. The northern section? Not so much as it presents some challenging descents. Thru-hikers like to attempt the “Half Gallon Challenge” at the A.T. Museum in Pine Grove State Park. The half gallon challenge involves thru-hikers trying to eat an entire half gallon of ice cream.

Since this section of the AT is also managed for hunting, fall is not the best time to visit. Camping rules can also vary considerably throughout the state so be sure to carry out your research. 

New Jersey

This section of the AT is 72 miles long and has diverse terrain from wetlands to flatlands, bogs, steep slopes, and so on. You’ll be surprised at how wild this section is considering it’s close to New Jersey’s major cities. 

There’s a chance you might encounter black bears in this section. Know how to keep your cool when you encounter black bears and keep your food in bear resistant canisters. Campfires are prohibited and camping can only be done at designated sites. 

New York

The New York section of the AT (90 miles) is home to the lowest point of the Trail (124 feet). You get to enjoy the natural beauty of woodlands when you are near Harriman State Park. Some hikers venture into the city for some urban experience before returning to the trail.

Be careful when navigating in this section as some of the rocky areas can be hazardous when wet. You can only camp on designated sites and shelters are far apart. Same with water sources. And you can only make campfires in designated fire rings.

Connecticut

Spanning 51 miles, the Connecticut section of the AT passes through pristine hardwood forests. Most of the northern trail lacks switchbacks which makes climbs more difficult. The highest elevation in this area is Bear Mountain. 

Perhaps the most beautiful scenery in this section is a 50-foot waterfall in Falls village. The waterfall looks more spectacular after snowmelt or heavy rain. You can only camp at designated sites and fires are prohibited. 

Massachusetts

The Massachusetts section of the AT is 91 miles long passing through highlands, layered ridgelines, shaded glens, and lush river walks. The highest elevation in this section is Mt. Grey lock (3,491 feet), which was said to inspire Herman Melville to write “Moby Dick.” You can find bus service along Route 7 in Massachusetts. 

Vermont

This section of the AT offers challenges for both beginners and experienced backpackers. The lowest elevation in the state is 400 feet with the highest exceeding 4,000 feet and the Vermont trail distance is 150 miles. 

The mountains here are covered in dense and verdant forests and are thus referred to as Green Mountains. You are better off not visiting this section during the mud season which is between April and May.

New Hampshire

The New Hampshire section of the AT (161 miles) is unique for being the only trail that offers the longest miles above treelines. As a result, there are several scenic views in this area with the famous White Mountains offering incredible views. The weather here can be very bad, especially after a storm. 

You’ll have to be in good shape with good knees to navigate this section due to the very steep mountains. Hikers intending to go on difficult adventures abroad come here to test their readiness. 

Maine

Maine can be the beginning or end of a thru-hike depending on where the hiker decides to start. This section is generally agreed to be the toughest in the entire AT as the landscape is very rugged and challenging. But there is a sense of accomplishment that comes with overcoming the challenges this section throws at hikers. You’ll find wildlife like moose, loons, and pristine lakes here.

Permit Needed?

The Appalachian Trail is free and requires no entrance fee or permission. However, the trail passes through states, national parks, forests, and public lands. Some of these may charge a fee or require permits. You’ll need permits for the Great Smoky Mountains National Park (Tennessee/North Carolina), Shenandoah National Park (Virginia), White Mountain National Forest/Appalachian Mountain Club (New Hampshire), and Baxter State Park (Maine).

Some shelters and overnight campsites may also require permits or reservations. 

How Long Does the AT take?

Thru-hiking the entire 2,190+ miles of the Appalachian Trail (A.T.) will take between 5 to 7 months. It’s a huge undertaking that requires a lot of physical and mental preparation. You decide where and when you want to start your hike, register your thru-hike, and plan your resupply points. You also have to be familiar with camping regulations in all the sections of the AT. 

The post The Appalachian Trail: The Longest Hiking Trail in the World appeared first on A.T. Thru Hiking.

Before diving into the tents and shelters, a few things to consider are the types of tents on the market. There are a number of materials used that range from nylon to Dyneema, with the cost swinging drastically if you opt for the latter. Also, a number of shelters on this list are trekking pole shelters and require a bit more diligent setting up, especially in the wind.

Our Choice: Z packs Duplex

The Z Packs Duplex Tent was voted as the best tent by Appalachian Trail thru-hikers two years in a row. It consistently comes up in surveys as the most popular tent year after year. It is extremely light, fairly easy to set up, and provides a good barrier to inclement weather. The bathtub floor is especially nice for keeping rain and puddled water out of the bottom of the tent. The major drawbacks are the price and some reports from hikers that their tent simply did not hold up well. If this is your chosen option, be sure to take care of it and dry it out before storing it after backpacking trips. 19 ounces for a two-person tent is simply unheard of, which is why the high price. This trekking pole tent should be in consideration for your gear kit.

Buy at Zpacks

Great free-standing option: Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL2

Big Agnes makes quality tents and the Tiger Wall UL2 has been one of the best received in its lineup. The tents are heavier because they are double-walled, but this also makes them a little easier to store and use in rainstorms that last more than one night. The Tiger Wall is durable, and lightweight for a freestanding tent and might be the best option for a 3-season shelter, although we have even been able to stretch it to 4-season usage. The dual entry points make it a great option to use with a partner, and with any freestanding tent, there is less pressure to find ground that can hold a tent stake.

Buy at REI

Buy from Amazon

Gossamer Gear The One

The One is a great affordable ultralight option. It does not perform as well as the more expensive shelters on this list, but it is completely capable of surviving an AT hike. We recommend waterproofing it yourself and sealing it before a thru-hike or backpacking trip to give the silnylon an extra coat of weather protection before you live in it. The tent uses two trekking poles and is fairly simple to set up. It is a basic one-person single-walled shelter but it checks all the boxes for a thru-hike or AT backpacking trip. Our favorite feature is the large amount of headroom.

Buy at Gossamer Gear

Buy From Garage Grown Gear

Nemo Hornet 2

The Nemo Hornet is a great option for a freestanding tent. The headroom is fantastic and has a couple of interior pockets that make organizing and stowing things like headlamps and phones simple during the night. It is still fairly lightweight despite being a double-walled shelter. This tent is among the most weatherproof on the list and holds up well through the harshness of a thru-hike. If you go with the Nemo Hornet 2, it should last long beyond a thru-hike and be available for subsequent backpacking adventures.

Buy from REI

Buy from NEMO

Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2

The Big Agnes lineup is centered on freestanding and double-walled tents. This means that they pale in comparison to the single-wall tarp competitors on the weight side. But, they offer a more comfortable camping experience with more room inside and a more weatherproof design if you opt for the heavier option. Big Agnes tents also work well for shorter backpacking trips because they are adaptable. The rain fly can be left off for a view of the stars or cinched tight in rain and snowstorms. This tent weighs more than the Tiger Wall, but the design is a little better for two people It is more weatherproof and the double doors make more sense. If longevity in a versatile tent is the goal, the Copper Spur is a good option.

Buy at REI

Buy from Moosejaw

REI Flash Air 2

The REI Flash Air 2 Tent checks all the boxes but is simply an average tent. The price is about the same as The Two from Gossamer Gear and we think that is a better option. This tent is heavier with very similar construction and features. At 2.8 lbs, it does not fit within the ultralight category, but it does have some good features too. This tent does provide good weather protection and has fewer issues with condensation than other tents on this list. It is very easy to pitch. It is a good and available option, yet we think there are better ones on the list.

Buy at REI

Zpacks Free Duo

The Zpacks Free Duo combines ultralight with a free-standing tent. The single-walled tent comes in at an amazing 1.9 pounds with the tent poles included. This alone should land it in consideration for a thru-hike and an every backpacking trip tent. The interior room is less than the other two person tents and this tent is susceptible to more wear than others on the list.

Buy from Zpacks

MSR Hubba NX 1

The MSR Hubba NX 1 is a tent built to last. The freestanding design is more suited for weekend trips and longevity than a thru-hike, but it still lands on the list as a good option. It is constructed with high-quality ripstop nylon construction and added an Xtreme Shield waterproof coating. The built-in rain gutter is a unique feature and draws water away from the tent’s openings. Durability and weatherproofing are its selling point and have some of the best precision-stitched seams of any shelter on this list. It does very well in heavy winds and rainfall. It is well priced for its features and durability.

Buy at MSR

Buy from Amazon

Buy from Backcountry

Hyperlite Mountain Gear Ultamid 2

The Ultamid 2 is a great option for an early start on the Appalachian Trail or a thru-hike that may extend into winter. It has a great design, lots of headroom and is capable of keeping all types of weather out. The quality DCF construction and lightweight design does come at a high price and does not include a floor or a bug insert, although they can be purchased separately. Hyperlite tents can be seen often on the AT and we believe it is for good reason. This tent comes well-reviewed and is highly recommended.

Buy from Hyperlite

Buy from Backcountry

Six Moon Designs Lunar Solo

The award-winning Lunar Solo from Six Moon Designs is a very good tent especially when considering the price. It firmly sits in the budget realm, but outperfoms that designation. It also lands on many lists of the best budget gear list for the Appalachian Trail. The Lunar Solo is simply competent enough to last the entire trail and keep you dry. The tent should be additionally seem sealed and waterproofed on top of the factory settings to assure maximum weather protection.

Buy on Amazon

Buy on Garage Grown Gear

The post Appalachian Trail Tents and Shelters appeared first on A.T. Thru Hiking.

Thanks to impressive leaps in headlamp technology, there are several quality headlamps on the market and many are quite affordable. Choosing the right one in the crowded market can be confusing, so we have broken down the most popular for thru-hikers and backpackers.

Most popular headlamps for backpacking and thru-hiking the AT

Our Ultralight Pick: Nitecore NU25

The NiteCore NU25 is one of the lightest headlamps on the market weighing just under 1 ounce. We find it very bright for its small size and it’s super easy to operate. There are four brightness settings – 360, 190, 38, and 1 lumen, respectively and you can get up to 5 hours runtime at 190 lumens. 

There aren’t any drawbacks to this headlamp except that it has no dimmer.

Petzl Swift RL

The Petzl Swift RL is over $100, which many may consider too much for a headlamp, but considering it is a high-end piece of equipment, it may be a good option.

The Swift RL can be positioned at any angle. The battery life is mindblowing (100 hours at the lowest brightness) and it has six different lighting options. The reactive lighting (RL) feature also adjusts brightness based on distances to objects. This really is an amazing technology that is the genesis for landing this headlamp on the list. On top of the features, the durability is incredible. You’ll get spoiled with the Petzl Swift RL headlamp. It is simply a consideration of it is worth the cost compared to the alternatives.

Black Diamond Spot 350

We are quite fond of the Black Diamond Spot 350 headlamp despite a number of misleading statements on most spec sheets. It does not live up to the stated battery life and has more features than most people need. Luckily, the features you DO need are easy to reach. The Black Diamond Spot 350 is reasonably priced and it’s bound to have all the features you need for a backpacking trip or a thru-hike. Its simple design makes it a quality option for Appalachian Trail hikers.

The main drawbacks are the complex combinations required for advanced features and the non-rechargeable battery. Be prepared to go through a number of AAA batteries throughout a thru-hike. 

Petzl Actik Core

The Petzl Actik Core Headlamp has several attributes we value in a headlamp – lightweight, easy to use, good performance, and durability. We also like that it’s easy to operate when wearing gloves and that a single button is needed for operation.

The high mode spot beam is very bright and can shine an impressive 90 meters down the trail which is up there with the best headlamps on the market. This headlamp doesn’t come cheap, but it’s a quality light. But overall, we recommend finding a more affordable option. 

BioLite 330

We found the BioLite 330 headlamp a completely competent option for thru-hikers. It has many good features: lightweight, streamlined no-bounce design, and nice light brightness. It’s 330 lumens can reach up to 75 meters in spot mode.

The main drawback of this headlamp is the battery life which is only 3.5 hours in high mode. For limited night hiking and a traditional thru-hike, this light is more than enough, but for serious long backpacking or camping trips where there will be lots of activity after day, this headlamp will require frequent charging. 

Petzl Tikkina

If you are looking for a budget headlamp, look no further than the Petzl Tikkina which is just below $20. It has better construction and performance than most headlamps in the same price range and the 62-meter beam is very impressive for the price. 

While the Tikkina has slightly below-average flood beam optics, it’ll meet the needs of most thru-hikers and backpackers. At $20, we deem it a good bargain headlamp for thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail. 

Coast FL1R

Comfortable, rechargeable, lightweight, and bright, the Coast FL1R has everything you need in a headlamp, although some backpackers and thru-hikers may desire more. Coast claims this headlamp is weatherproof and we found it to withstand light rain.  

The main drawback is the battery life of just a couple of hours. It is not ideal for someone on a backpacking trip, but can be pulled off with a portable charger. 

The post Appalachian Trail Headlamps appeared first on A.T. Thru Hiking.

Types of Backpacks

The major difference in backpacks on this list is the fabric they are made with. The three most common types of fabric are Dyneema, X-Pac, and Sil Nylon written in order of expense.

We have used a number of sources as well as our own time spent out on the trail to come up with the most popular backpacks for Appalachian Trail Thru-Hikers.

Most Popular Backpacks for AT Thru-Hikers

ZPacks Arc Blast 55

Our Thoughts:

Zpacks designed the Arc Blast specifically for backpacking the Appalachian Trail. It combines a waterproof design, enough capacity, and a decent carbon frame system with a simple and sleek design. The lack of hip belt pockets and the wider holes in the back mesh are the only knock against this premium pack. It does come at the highest price of the comparable backpacks on the list and won’t last much longer than one thru-hike.

Buy from Zpacks

Hyperlite Mountain Gear 3400 Southwest

Our Thoughts:

Hyperlite Mountain Gear makes some of the most expensive backpacks, but they are worth the money. The construction, fabric, waterproofing, and durability warrant the price tag, but for a thru-hike like the Appalachian Trail, a number of these features are overkill. On the contrary, if the AT is going to be one of many thru-hikes or backpacking trips, it is a great pack. The roll-top is great for compacting the Southwest when you are carrying less gear. The Hyperlite Mountain Gear backpack is very expensive, but when compared to Zpacks Arc Blast you are likely to get a lot more miles out of this durable yet lightweight backpack. If backpacking beyond an Appalachian Trail thru-hike is the plan, this is the top-tier backpack we recommend.

Buy From REI

Osprey Exos

Our Thoughts:

The Osprey series of packs is very popular among backpackers and thru-hikers on the Appalachian Trail. The Exos combines affordability with durability and a great support system to move the weight off your shoulders. If it is your first thru-hike and replacing a backpack in the middle of the AT sounds like a nightmare, then the Osprey Exos is a great option. If you have more of a budget and think it is worth the weight savings, the other backpacks may be a better fit.

Buy at REI (mens)

Buy at REI (womens)

LiteAF Curve X40L

Our Thoughts:

A relatively new company for the list, but a company exploding onto the scene with great colors and immaculate construction and using Xpac and Dyneema to make lightweight and durable packs. Waymark has some of the best construction and quality of the cottage brands and this backpack is likely to hold up really well, even if you are hard on gear. These do have a long lead time because of their popularity and the capacity is considerably less than most other backpacks on this list.

Buy on LiteAF

Waymark Lite 50L

Our Thoughts:

Waymark puts a different spin on ultralight backpacks by using Xpac and Ecopak to make a durable, sturdy product. It is fairly lightweight at two and a half pounds and easily can withstand multiple thru-hikes. The clear back mesh is easy to see items and the internal frame makes carrying up to 35 pounds pretty easy. If you want a pack that lasts and is handmade in the USA, Waymark makes a number of great options.

Buy on Waymark

Buy on Garage Grown Gear

Gossamer Gear Mariposa

Our Thoughts:

Gossamer Gear is a staple on any list of backpacks for thru-hikers and the Mariposa is the most agile model. It is large enough to fit everything you could need, but also light enough to keep your base weight down. Since they use Robic Nylon, Gossamer Gear packs are not completely waterproof, so we recommend a backpack liner for thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail. They are simple, organized, and a great start at being lightweight, long-distance backpackers. The best part about them is that their lead time is a lot shorter than many other brands on this list.

Buy on Gossamer Gear

Gossamer Gear G4-20

Our Thoughts:

The G4-20 is one of the most affordable packs that is ultralight for an AT hike. The design is uniquely asymmetrical, with one side pocket being much taller than the other. The Mariposa shares this design and through using on a number of trips, we found this pocket actually quite useful for stowing a wet tent, shelter, or ground sheet along with the associated poles. There is less storage space in this pack than the others on the list, but if you are frugal with your gear, this is a good choice for maintaining a level of ultralight on your thru-hike.

Buy on Gossamer Gear

Granite Gear Crown 2 60

Our Thoughts:

A time test company with a good pack for those that are not willing to cut their weight into the ultralight zone for double the expense. At 60 liters this backpack should hold any amount of gear you deem essential for a thru-hike. It is really a deal when considering the prices of the competitors on this list. The Crown 60 is reliable, often on sale, and has a brain pocket (rare on this list). It is fairly waterproof but gives up some of the weatherproofing and durability in exchange for the lower price point.

Buy from Amazon

The post Best Appalachian Trail Backpacks appeared first on A.T. Thru Hiking.

Water is one of the most essential things to consider on a backpacking trip. Constantly monitoring the distance between sources and correctly treating water is one of the best ways to assure a successful and fun backpacking adventure on the Appalachian Trail. Numerous techniques and technologies exist in the water treatment space and we have compiled a list of the most common on the Appalachian Trail.

Water purification has changed and expanded dramatically over the years – boiling, filtration, ultraviolet light, and chemical treatment with iodine and chlorine are all effective. We have seen people hike the entire trail using steripens, iodine and other chemicals for purification despite filters being the most popular method.

Our Choice: Sawyer Squeeze

The Sawyer Squeeze is among the most popular backpacking filters. It is compact, simple, lightweight, easy to use, and attachable to store-bought bottles. The versatility makes it great to depend on for months at a time. Using the provided bag to filter into a container or drink directly through the filter is possible and can make the Sawyer products more versatile. 

The Sawyer filters adequately remove bacteria and protozoa from your water. However, the same can’t be said for viruses. But this isn’t often a concern in the backcountry. 

What we like

• Reliable, inexpensive, simple, and easy to clean
• Packable and durable
• Versatile: can squeeze through or drink straight from the filter
• Instantly treats water

What we don’t

• Rubber O ring falls out with over-tightening
• Can freeze and crack in cold conditions
• Provided pouches do not perform very well
• Not effective against viruses

Buy From REI

Sawyer Squeeze Mini

The Sawyer Squeeze Mini is another version of the Sawyer Squeeze above. It is more lightweight than the original Sawyer filter but also sacrifices the flow rate and the maximum filtering capacity. We have found the mini requires more frequent backflushing and after a couple of gallons of dirty water is filtered it slows its filtering rate considerably.

The Mini has a slow flow rate that only degrades over time. But, it is still good for shorter trip, we just don’t recommend it for a MINI ideal for shorter trips but less so on an entire AT hike. Pay extra and buy the original Sawyer Squeeze. 

What we like

• Lightweight
• Small and packable
• Screws onto most standard water bottles
• Instantly treats water

What we don’t

• Slow flow rate
• Can easily Clog
• Many leaking issues were reported with included pouch
• Not effective against viruses

Buy from REI

Aquamira – The Chemical Choice

Aquamira uses the chemical chlorine dioxide to treat water and kill pathogens. The two small bottles are very lightweight and easy to use. Aquamira treatment simply requires mixing eight drops from each bottle and then adding it to the untreated water. Then it takes 20 minutes for the Aquamira to kill all the maladies.

Contrary to other methods on the list, Aquamira is effective against viruses. It’s an inexpensive method costing only $15. However, the waiting time can be a frustration in dry areas. The Aquamira kit also does not remove sediments. 

What we like

• Simple to use
• Kills viruses
• Small and compact
• Cheap

What we don’t

• Takes 20 minutes to work effectively
• Slightly changes the taste of the water
• Difficult to monitor the quantity left in the droppers

Buy From REI

Katadyn BeFree – Good for day hikes or small amounts of filtering

The Katadyn BeFree is not a great system for a full thru-hike, but it is a good option for shorter backpacking trips and long days in the mountains. It is essentially a nozzle-based filter you can use with the included bottle or other compatible bottles. 

The filter rate diminishes quickly over time and the Katadyn BeFree is not easy to clean. But, it is still a popular filter system for shorter hikes and backpacking trips where less water is required to be filtered.

What we like

• Simple and reliable
• Dependable bottle and easy to squeeze through
• Quick to use and easy to keep handy

What we don’t

• Clogs easily
• Difficult to clean
• Tough when filtering multiple liters at a time

Buy From REI

Sawyer Micro

Sawyer created the Micro to be a lighter alternative to the original Sawyer Squeeze but with a faster flow than the Mini. The Micro is lightweight, reliable, and easy to use but still falls short of our top pick from Sawyer. 

The Micro has a noticeably slower flow rate than the Sawyer Squeeze and seems to clog up easier but it is also a faster and more efficient filter than the Sawyer Squeeze Mini.

What we like

• Lighter weight and versatile
• Easy to clean and backflush
• Affordable and durable

What we don’t

• Slower flow rate than the Sawyer Squeeze
• Poor quality bag included from Sawyer

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Iodine Tablets

What is the best thing about Iodine Tablets? They weigh almost nothing! So you aren’t taking on any extra weight. But, the benefits really end there.  

It takes about 30 minutes for iodine tablets to be effective and even then there may be a strange taste. Sold separately are taste neutralizing pills that can be paired with Iodine. Another downside of this treatment method is that Iodine isn’t effective against cryptosporidium. 

What we like

• Simple
• Lightweight
• Cheap

What we don’t

• Take 30 minutes
• Not the most effective treatment
• Leaves a funky taste in the water

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Platypus Gravity Filter – A good group option

The Platypus Gravity Filter System has two bags and an inline filter. There is a bag for the dirty water (yet to be treated) and gravity forces the ‘bad water’ through the filter and into a clean bag. It is a simple set it and forget it method available in 2 and 4-liter capacities.

The Platypus Gravity Filter is great for groups and has a good flow rate. But, it’s heavy and bulky. The best feature is that the Gravity Filter does all the work.

What we like

• Efficiently filter large quantities
• Little work/effort required

What we don’t

• Heavy and Bulky
• Takes time for gravity to move the water through the system

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Katadyn Steripen – The UV Option

The Katadyn Steripen is unique to this list because of its use of ultraviolet rays. The pen is effective against bacteria, fungi, and viruses. And the Katadyn Steripen uses UV rays. Simply fill a bottle with water, stir with the ultraviolet pen for 90 seconds, and you have clean water. 

The UV Pen does not work well in cloudy or murky water and a prefilter through a bandana or other cloth may be required to assure it is effective. The Katadyn Steripen is lightweight and especially beneficial when viruses are a concern. Despite its ease of use, it is not one of the most commonly used methods on the Appalachian Trail.

What we like

• Lightweight
• Nearly instant (90 seconds)
• Kills viruses

What we don’t

• Requires Batteries
• Less durable than others on the list
• May need to prefilter murky water

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The post Treating Water on the Appalachian Trail appeared first on A.T. Thru Hiking.

See our comprehensive review and list of the most popular backpacks for the Appalachian Trail

Most Popular Sleeping Bags For the Appalachian Trail

Most Popular Tents / Shelters For the Appalachian Trail

Read our comprehensive review of the best tents and shelters for backpacking the AT

Most Popular Shoes For the Appalachian Trail

Most Popular Sleeping Pads For the Appalachian Trail

Most Popular Insulated Jackets For the Appalachian Trail

Most Popular Rain Jackets For the Appalachian Trail

Shell	Price	Weight	Fabric	Pit zips	Pockets
Arc’teryx Zeta SL	$299	10.9 oz / 309 g	Gore-Tex (2-layer) with Paclite Plus	No	2 zippered hand
Enlightened Equipment Visp	$210	5 oz / 142g	Ripstop 7D nylon outer layer	Yes	No
Marmot Precip Eco	$99.95	10.1 oz / 268 g	NanoPro Eco	Yes	2 zippered pocket
Outdoor Research Helium	$159	6.3 oz / 178g	Pertex Shield Diamond Fuse (2.5-layer) [face fabric] 30D nylon ripstop	Yes	2 zippered pockets
Montbell Versalite	$219	6.4 oz / 182 g	2-layer GORE-TEX INFINIUM WINDSTOPPER®10-denier Ballistic Airlight nylon ripstop	Yes	2 zippered hand pockets
Frogg Toggs	$30	4.8 oz / 132g	100% Polyethylene	No	2 zippered hand pockets
North Face Venture 2	$99	11.6 oz / 330 g	2.5-layer DryVent	Yes	2 zippered hand pockets
Arc’teryx Beta SL Hybrid Jacket	$276.25	12.3 oz / 349 g	Gore-Tex Paclite, Gore-Tex Pro, & Gore C Knit	Yes	2 zippered hand pockets
Patagonia Torrentshell 3L	$149	13.9 oz / 394 g	H2No Performance Standard shell	Yes	2 zippered hand

Most Popular Headlamps for backpacking the Appalachian Trail

See our comprehensive review of the most popular headlamps on the Appalachian Trail

Most Popular Hiking Socks For the Appalachian Trail

The post Appalachian Trail Gear List appeared first on A.T. Thru Hiking.

The Appalachian Trail was completed in 1937 and became a National Scenic Trail, along with the Pacific Crest Trail, in 1968. As of 2022, there are 11 National Scenic Trails.

Thru-Hiking the AT

Thru-hikers are the rare few who backpack the entire length of the Appalachian Trail in one season. Earl Shaffer claimed to be the first thru-hiker of the entire A.T. in 1948 and repeated his feat at the age of 80 to become the oldest at the time. The record of the oldest Appalachian Trail Thru-hiker is currently held by M.J. “Nimblewill Nomad” Eberheart who completed the A.T. in 2021 at the age of 83.

From south to north, the Appalachian Trail passes through the following 14 states: Georgia, North Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine.

The Appalachian Trail has increased steadily in popularity over the last few decades due to media, books, influencers, and a number of documentaries surrounding the trail. The same can be seen on the other two triple crown trails: The Pacific Crest Trail and the Continental Divide Trail.

About AT Thru Hiking

The purpose of this website is to provide resources, tips, tricks, gear suggestions, and information to prepare thru-hikers and backpacking for their adventures on the Appalachian Trail. We are A.T. Thru-Hikers and have used the gear we write about. The purpose is to provide options with relevant information for individuals to make their own informed decisions.

The gear world, industry, and roundups have become a mess. Many of them are written by non-backpackers who have never used the products and are simply trying to push the products that result in the most affiliate revenue. That is why our mission is to simply provide options and choices and let you make the final choice.

We do have affiliate links and ads for the sole reason of funneling that money into creating more content. Thanks for using us!

Check out our comparison tables as a starting place for your Backpacking Gear List

-The AT Thru Hiking Team

The post About the Appalachian Trail appeared first on A.T. Thru Hiking.