Just wondering about this. I hiked about 1/2 of the PCT without one. Cooked on very small fires instead. This method might be difficult on the AT since it rains more frequently. Although now that I think about it, there are probably a greater number of established campsites on the AT that have existing fire rings to use which would reduce the impact and also make it more convenient to cook with a fire..

Has anyone thruhiked with food that doesnt require cooking and just got their hot meals every few days in town? Seems like it wouldnt be a very enjoyable way to go, just to save a few pounds by not having to carry a stove...

(I will be taking a stove on the AT this summer, just throwing this out there for discussion..)