2008 vs current AT Trail Guide

[Rolo]

I hiked GA to Maryland back in 08' and after a tour with the Peace Corps I am ready to hop back on the trail with a SOBO starting in Maine. I know it is minimal cost, but is it recommended that I spring for the current edition or is my guide from a few years back sufficient?

Thx.

[10-K]

Yes, and yes.

I think you could hike with a 2008 guidebook with the obvious issues of services that have changed. But, the trail is still the trail and most cities are still there so you could do it.

But buy the book.

[Jeff]

+1 Buy the book. It may cost $15 but you will save yourself $15 in aggravation many times over.

[max patch]

+1 Buy the book. It may cost $15 but you will save yourself $15 in aggravation many times over.

If he used the 08 book he wouldn't know about your place, would he?

[Rolo]

+1 Buy the book. It may cost $15 but you will save yourself $15 in aggravation many times over.

Care to elaborate a little? I get the fact that the trail, campgrounds/shelters, towns have not gone anywhere but is the only thing I am going to miss is added services in town?

[Jeff]

Both The Companion and The AT Guide work hard to improve accuracy every edition.

Just looking at hiker accommodations in recent years:

Closed:
Cloud 9 Hostel, Rusty's, Mayors House, Gull Pond Lodge, The Vortex

Opened:
Allenbury, Teahorse Hostel, White Mtn Lodge and Hostel, Laughing Heart Hostel, Aquone and 4 Pines (closed for 5 years and recently reopened).