Appalachian Trail Elevation Gain Calculator

The Appalachian Trail spans approximately 464,500 feet of total elevation gain from its start at Springer Mountain, Georgia, to its end at Katahdin, Maine. This challenging long-distance trail includes steep ascents, descents, and varied terrain, making it a rigorous journey for hikers seeking a thru-hike experience.

Appalachian Trail Elevation Gain Calculator

Here’s a table outlining the approximate elevation gain at various significant points along the Appalachian Trail:

Location/Section	Total Elevation Gain (feet)
Springer Mountain, GA	800
Blood Mountain, GA	4,458
Clingmans Dome, NC/TN	6,643
Mount Washington, NH	6,288
Mahoosuc Notch, ME	Varies (Difficult)
Katahdin, ME	5,267

Please note that these elevation gains are approximate, as the trail’s terrain can vary, and some sections may have numerous smaller ascents and descents between significant points. The table provides elevation gains at key landmarks to give you an idea of the trail’s challenges.

FAQs

1. How much elevation gain on Appalachian Trail?
   • The Appalachian Trail covers approximately 464,500 feet (about 88 miles) of elevation gain from start to finish.
2. What elevation gain is considered difficult?
   • Elevation gain difficulty varies depending on individual fitness levels and experience, but gains of 1,000 feet per mile or more are often considered challenging.
3. How much is 500 feet elevation per mile?
   • 500 feet of elevation gain per mile is a moderately steep ascent.
4. How many miles a day should you walk on the Appalachian Trail?
   • On average, hikers aim to cover 10-15 miles per day, but this can vary based on fitness, experience, and trail conditions.
5. What is harder PCT or Appalachian Trail?
   • Many hikers find the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) more challenging due to its longer distance, more extreme weather, and higher elevations.
6. How many miles do hikers average on the Appalachian Trail?
   • Hikers typically average around 12-15 miles per day on the Appalachian Trail.
7. Is 500m elevation gain a lot?
   • 500 meters (about 1,640 feet) of elevation gain in a hike is considered significant and challenging.
8. Is 1000m elevation gain a lot?
   • 1,000 meters (about 3,280 feet) of elevation gain is considered a substantial and strenuous climb.
9. Is 150 elevation gain a lot?
   • 150 feet of elevation gain is a relatively minor incline and is not considered challenging.
10. Is 250 ft elevation gain a lot?
    • 250 feet of elevation gain is a manageable ascent for most hikers.
11. Is 1000 ft elevation gain a lot running?
    • A 1,000-foot elevation gain in a run is a substantial challenge, particularly over a shorter distance.
12. What is 100 feet elevation gain per mile?
    • 100 feet of elevation gain per mile is a relatively gentle incline.
13. Can I carry a gun on the Appalachian Trail?
    • Firearms laws vary by state along the Appalachian Trail. In some states, it may be legal to carry a firearm for self-defense, but it’s essential to research and comply with local regulations.
14. What is the average age to hike the Appalachian Trail?
    • The average age of Appalachian Trail thru-hikers is typically in the late 20s to early 30s, but hikers of all ages embark on the trail.
15. How much does it cost to walk the Appalachian Trail?
    • The cost of thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail can range from $3,000 to $6,000 or more, depending on various factors like gear, resupply, and travel expenses.
16. What percentage of hikers complete the Appalachian Trail?
    • Approximately 20-30% of hikers who start the Appalachian Trail successfully complete the entire trail.
17. Do you have to be in good shape to hike the Appalachian Trail?
    • It’s advisable to be in good physical shape before attempting a thru-hike, but the trail can also help you improve your fitness over time.
18. What is the hardest 1 mile of the Appalachian Trail?
    • The “Mahoosuc Notch” in Maine is often considered the hardest mile on the Appalachian Trail due to its rugged terrain and challenging boulder field.
19. Where do you sleep on the Appalachian Trail?
    • Hikers typically sleep in shelters, campsites, or even set up tents along the trail. Some may also stay in towns and hostels along the route.
20. Can you hike the Appalachian Trail with no experience?
    • While it’s possible to hike the Appalachian Trail with minimal experience, it’s advisable to have some backpacking and outdoor skills to increase your chances of success and safety.
21. What is the hardest part of the Appalachian Trail?
    • The hardest part of the Appalachian Trail varies by individual experience, but challenging sections include steep climbs, rocky terrain, and inclement weather in the White Mountains and Smoky Mountains.
22. How much elevation gain is safe?
    • Elevation gain safety depends on fitness and acclimatization. Most people can safely handle 500-1,000 feet of gain per mile.
23. What is a good elevation gain for a beginner?
    • A beginner hiker may find elevation gains of 100-500 feet per mile manageable.
24. What is the highest elevation gain in one day?
    • Hikers can achieve elevation gains of 5,000-7,000 feet or more in a single day, depending on their experience and the trail’s difficulty.
25. How much elevation can you climb in a day?
    • Experienced hikers can ascend 10,000 feet or more in a day under ideal conditions, but this varies widely based on terrain, fitness, and acclimatization.
26. How much elevation is a flight of stairs?
    • A standard flight of stairs typically contains about 10-12 feet of elevation gain.
27. What is the difference between max elevation and elevation gain?
    • Max elevation is the highest point reached during a hike or activity, while elevation gain represents the cumulative increase in elevation throughout the entire route.
28. How much elevation gain is too much hiking?
    • “Too much” elevation gain depends on your fitness level and experience. Excessive elevation gain can lead to fatigue and strain, so it’s essential to plan hikes according to your abilities.
29. Is 300m elevation a lot?
    • 300 meters (about 984 feet) of elevation gain is moderately challenging for most hikers.
30. What is a steep grade for running?
    • A steep grade for running is typically considered anything above a 10-15% incline.
31. Is 500 ft elevation gain a lot cycling?
    • 500 feet of elevation gain in a cycling ride is considered a moderate climb, but it can vary depending on the distance.
32. What elevation is best to live at?
    • The best elevation to live at varies by personal preference, but many people find elevations between 1,000 to 5,000 feet above sea level comfortable.
33. How much elevation is 100 floors?
    • 100 floors equate to roughly 1,000 to 1,200 feet of elevation gain, depending on the building’s height.
34. Is 2000 feet high elevation?
    • 2,000 feet above sea level is considered relatively low elevation, and many areas around the world are situated at this height or higher.
35. How much elevation gain per hour?
    • The elevation gain per hour varies based on terrain, fitness, and pace, but an estimate might be 500-1,000 feet per hour for hiking.
36. What happens at each 1000 feet in elevation?
    • As you ascend 1,000 feet in elevation, you may experience changes in temperature, air pressure, and oxygen levels, which can impact your body and the environment.
37. How many vertical feet is a flight of stairs?
    • A standard flight of stairs typically contains about 10-12 vertical feet.
38. How do you calculate elevation gain per foot?
    • Elevation gain per foot is calculated by dividing the total elevation gain (in feet) by the length of the hike or trail (in feet). For example, if you gain 1,000 feet over 5,000 feet of trail, it’s 1,000/5,000 = 0.2 feet of elevation gain per foot of trail.
39. How do you train for race with elevation gain?
    • To train for a race with elevation gain, incorporate hill workouts, practice on similar terrain, and gradually increase the elevation in your training runs.
40. Is alcohol allowed on the Appalachian Trail?
    • Alcohol is allowed on the Appalachian Trail, but responsible consumption is essential. Regulations may vary in different areas.
41. Is crime an issue on the Appalachian Trail?
    • Crime is relatively low on the Appalachian Trail, but hikers should still take precautions like staying aware of their surroundings and practicing safety.
42. Can you camp anywhere on the Appalachian Trail?
    • Camping rules vary along the trail. In some sections, you must camp at designated sites, while in others, you can use established backcountry campsites or practice Leave No Trace principles for dispersed camping.
43. What is the dropout rate for the Appalachian Trail?
    • The dropout rate on the Appalachian Trail is estimated to be around 20-30%, with various factors contributing to hikers leaving the trail.
44. How many hours a day do you hike on the Appalachian Trail?
    • Hikers typically spend 8-12 hours hiking each day, depending on their pace and the terrain.
45. How much weight does the average person lose on the Appalachian Trail?
    • The average person may lose 10-20 pounds or more during a thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail due to increased physical activity and calorie expenditure.
46. Do you need a tent on the Appalachian Trail?
    • While many hikers use tents or shelters, some choose to use hammocks or tarps. The choice of shelter on the Appalachian Trail depends on personal preference and hiking style.
47. Can beginners hike Appalachian Trail?
    • Beginners can hike the Appalachian Trail, but they should prepare adequately, gain experience, and start with shorter sections before attempting a thru-hike.
48. What should I eat while hiking the Appalachian Trail?
    • Hikers typically consume a high-calorie diet that includes trail mix, energy bars, dehydrated meals, nuts, fruits, and foods rich in protein and carbohydrates to sustain energy during long hikes.