Appalachian Trail Thru-Hikers’ Companion 2026

A thoroughly researched guide by long-distance hikers for long-distance hikers

• Elevation profiles show the day ahead
• Landmark-by-landmark tables provide at-a-glance information
• Town maps indicate food and lodging

The Appalachian Trail Conservancy and the Appalachian Long Distance Hikers Association collaborate each year on a guide designed for potential thru-hikers who want the basic information for a five- to six-month trek in the woods, at a reasonable price, but who also want the adventure of discovering the extras for themselves. A favorite for 28 years of section-hikers and dreamers alike, it is still the only such guide written by volunteers, and all the proceeds are returned to the A.T. by these two nonprofits. Fact-checking research is done by more than two dozen thru-hiker volunteers in 14 states, backed by the first-hand information of the trail’s volunteer and staff maintainers and managers. Includes gear manufacturers’ toll-free numbers, post office hours, and much more.