Originally Posted by
bigcranky
Honestly, if it were me I would start at Springer Mountain, Georgia, and hike as long as I could. Lots of reasons for this, in no particular order: It's logistically pretty easy, with towns every 4-5 days for resupply, and a great outfitter 4 days up the trail. The weather will be terrific that time of year, and the trail won't be very crowded. The Trail in GA isn't really "easy" for a beginning hiker, but it's easier than Central Virginia and resupply is easier too. If you are going to drive you can park at Amicalola Falls State Park, or at the Hiker Hostel (or the HH can shuttle you from public transit.) If you love the Trail and want to come back for another section, it makes logical sense to start at the beginning now, and do the next section later, rather than bouncing around. There are plenty of great views, nice sections of trail, interesting little mountain towns, and terrific people in Georgia and North Carolina.
Hope this helps, and have fun.