Few people can take a 7-month long break from their lives and thru-hike down the Appalachian Trail (A.T.). That being said the A.T. continues to be a popular hiking trail for adventure enthusiasts from all over the world.

Those who want to explore the Appalachian Trail but don’t want to leave their homes for 7 long months can hike the following sections of the A.T.:

1. Springer Mountain in Georgia, 75-mile hike (8 days)

Springer Mountain is located on the southern side of the A.T. It may not be as talked about as other sections of the trail but is just as impressive. It stretches from the northern areas of Georgia to the southern parts of North Carolina; you’ll walk past lush forests and mountains which will take you to oak valleys and other serene sights.

Although the section will take hikers 8 days and it’s considered one of the “practice” hikes for those who want to try thru-hiking.

2. Nantahala Mountains in North Carolina, 29-mile hike (3 days)

Prefer hiking alone? This section of the A.T. is for you! The Nantahala Mountains give you the alone-time you need to refresh your mind, body, and soul.

It features captivating sights of the fire tower in the East. You’ll have to cross the Southern Nantahala Wilderness to make it the mountains. The wilderness has its own short hiking trails if you’re looking for an adventure.

3. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee (4 days)

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the country’s most crowded national parks. It’s the go-to trip for southern backpackers. If you want a campsite or shelter to spend the night in, you’ll have to book in advance. For those who don’t like large crowds, its best to travel to the park on a weekday instead of the weekend.

The park’s hiking trails will take you through streams, ridges, and offer you views of the fire tower. You’ll walk past icy swimholes and climb to the top to reach the Clingman’s Dome.

As beautiful as the trail is, it isn’t simple. The trails in the park are steep and long. You’ll continuously be climbing up as opposed to walking on leveled land.

Also, make sure to check the weather forecast before you go. The park can have snowstorms, hailstorms, and rainstorms during spring.

Whenever you decide to go, take a backpack that you can rely on with you. Light Hiking Gear offers a selection of scientifically-designed backpacks that were made to reduce pressure on hikers’ backs and joints when they’re on the trail. Our bags comfortably fit around your body without restricting movement and agility.

Check out our ultralight backpacking gear online and place your order today.