View Full Version : Fall hiking on AT
where is the best place to hike the AT in the September??
LIhikers
09-10-2008, 12:38
I bet Vermont would be beautiful once the leaves start to change colors.
Almost anywhere. Early autumn is the best time to be on the AT, in my opinion.
Just Plain Jim
09-10-2008, 13:13
Whatever state that you decide to hike, don't forget to check the hunting seasons.
Blissful
09-10-2008, 13:38
Maine was very nice.
Kerosene
09-10-2008, 16:24
Depends on what you're looking for. Peak colors aren't anticipated until late September/early October in northern New England (see: http://www.yankeefoliage.com/peakmap/). However, the AT is almost empty on weekdays after Labor Day, especially outside of the most popular recreation areas. I absolutely love hiking before the leaves drop, although water tends to be a little more scarce.
Jack Tarlin
09-10-2008, 16:32
Have to agree with Terrapin. With the possible exception of the White Mountains towards the end of the month, I can't think of anywhere on the A.T. that wouldn't be great to hike in September.
My first choices:
*Maine
*Vermont
*Tennessee/North Carolina border north of Erwin, TN
*Southwestern Virginia
If you're looking for somewhere close to home, the NY/NJ section would be very nice this time of year, and the area around the CT/MA border would be even nicer.
The Solemates
09-10-2008, 18:06
Fall is a good time to hike anywhere. My favorite season! I may have to go before the 2 trips I have planned in October! I'm getting that September bug...
DuctTape
09-11-2008, 01:47
Yes September is basically the best month to hike anywhere, but if you're looking for foliage you'll have to wait until October, save for the upper reaches of Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont.
Cookerhiker
09-11-2008, 06:27
September is pre-foliage in the miAtlantic but as others said, it's a real nice month to hike. One other nice aspect of September in Shenandoah NP is the wild purple asters are blooming.
earlyriser26
09-11-2008, 06:36
October is the best month on the AT. Not only is it one of the least rainy months, the trail is empty, and hiking temps are great. I'm going on a hike in VA in Oct. As to where you go? Almost anywhere, but I would avoid the Smokies during leaf season. That is one of the few places you will run into people.
f8lranger4x4
09-15-2008, 18:30
Virginia!!!!!! and Tennessee!!!!!!!
Dirty Harry
09-15-2008, 19:17
Im leaving on saturday to hike northern PA-NH, Im shure we will be right on time somewhere for the peak foliage. Im looking forward for the Sages revine area in CT, and MA without the mosquitos.
Virginia is nice because the weather is still good.
Blissful
09-19-2008, 10:35
Virginia is nice because the weather is still good.
Yes but the leaves are best in mid October on. I'd wait until October for VA. We also did the northern VA route in late October, really nice for having to do the rollercoaster section with the colored leaves and cool weather.