Weather

Getting ready to hit the Trail? Current watches, warnings and advisories are available from the National Weather Service. Local weather reports and more are available from the weather.com Outdoor Guide. You can also check our chart of average temperatures along the Appalachian Trail.

For an overview of optimal times of year to hike in specific areas, check the state-by-state information in A.T. Essentials.

Fast-changing weather

Always be prepared for drastic weather changes along the Appalachian Trail. Don't be surprised if you encounter sudden spells of "off-season" cold weather, hail, sleet, and even snow. Winter-like weather can occur in the southern Appalachians as late as May or as early as October. In Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine, extreme weather can occur practically year-round. Make sure you pack appropriate clothing for these weather extremes.

Winter hiking

The A.T. is open year-round, except for Baxter State Park in Maine. Those with extensive winter camping and hiking experience and proper gear will find solitude in abundance. However, the degree of preparation, experience and self-sufficiency required is far greater than for summer hiking, and the potential for disaster is much higher.

All portions of the Trail have the potential for snowfall from late October through early April. At higher elevations in the South and through much of New England, snow and cold weather sets in much earlier. In the far north, snow may linger into May and even June at the higher elevations.

The mildest weather on the A.T. typically occurs in the northern Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland and southern Pennsylvania sections, which have the most favorable combination of low elevation and a southerly latitude. Georgia has comparable conditions, but is very crowded in March and April with hikers on spring break and aspiring northbound thru-hikers.

High elevations

The higher the mountain, the colder, windier and wetter you can expect it to be. Use extra caution if planning a trip to one of these areas:

• White Mountain National Forest, New Hampshire. Get the latest information from the  Mt. Washington Observatory, atop the highest summit in the Northeast.
• Baxter State Park, Maine.
• Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee/North Carolina. Get details about the Smokies Climate.

Summer thunderstorms

Thunderstorms pose a hazard all along the Trail, particularly on open balds and above tree line. Usually you can see these storms approaching from some distance, giving you time to find suitable shelter away from open ridgetops and tall, isolated trees. See more tips for avoiding lightning danger.