View Full Version : VT or NH Section Time
I am looking to hike either the VT (146mi) or NH (161mi) section of the AT this summer and was wondering what the estimated time would be for completing one of these sections.
I am assuming about 15-20 days for either section....is that reasonable?
Also, does anybody have any input as to which of these sections I should do? (IE which one do you enjoy hiking the most? views, etc)
Thanks,
Jason
terrapin_too
03-26-2007, 15:04
A reasonably fit hiker can do the VT section in 10-12 days or less. The NH section is one of the toughest on the AT and will probably take somewhat longer. Lots of vertical in NH.
Plan on doing 2/3 your regular mileage in New Hampshire. The only thing that will slow you down in Vermont are the crystal clear springs :)
Also, does anybody have any input as to which of these sections I should do? (IE which one do you enjoy hiking the most? views, etc)
Thanks,
Jason
NH has more views - lots of hiking above treeline. VT has more mud.
Jack Tarlin
03-27-2007, 11:53
Most thru-hikers do Vermont in 9-11 days, but then, they've been hiking for 130 days or so when they get there. A hiker just getting started on the Trail might want to add a day or two. Likewise, most thru-hikers do NH in 12-13 days; I'd also add a day or two here, as well, unless you are particularly fit, are carrying a very small pack, or both.
Like Jack said, unless you are out of shape, in late 40's and want to stop and smell the roses - for VT that takes 15 days over 3 years of section hiking. :o So now you have the range: 10-15 days. Many hikers place an emphasis on mileage and getting it done. My brother and I also get it done, but at a pace we can enjoy the views, the camping and not beat up our middle age legs, knees etc too badly.
Thanks for all the replies!
Does anybody know a good resuply areas near Stratton (or around there)? I am planning on doing one supply around there and the other in Killington. That would allow me to have a light pack and only bring what I need for the trip between each of those supply areas (60miles or less).
Thanks,
Jason
terrapin_too
03-27-2007, 14:07
Does anybody know a good resuply areas near Stratton (or around there)? I am planning on doing one supply around there and the other in Killington. That would allow me to have a light pack and only bring what I need for the trip between each of those supply areas (60miles or less).
Manchester Center is about 14 miles north of Stratton summit (by trail). About five miles west of the trail, I forget the route number. There's a busy trailhead there (on the north side of that road) so that might be the best place to catch a ride into Manchester. It's quite a popular trail town, though I got stuck there on a hot summer weekend (waiting for a mail drop) and got bored quickly.