Most hikers take between five and seven months to thru-hike the entire Appalachian Trail, which is about 2,190 miles long
. The average time is just under six months, with most hikers averaging around 13 to 15 miles per day, including rest days
. Hikers typically start slower, around 8 to 10 miles per day, and increase their mileage as their fitness and trail experience improve, often reaching 12 to 16 miles per day
. The pace varies depending on terrain, weather, and individual fitness. Some sections are more challenging and may slow the pace, especially in New Hampshire and Maine
. While the typical thru-hike duration is five to seven months, some experienced hikers complete the trail much faster, with the fastest known times under 50 days, but these are exceptional cases
. Conversely, some hikers take longer than seven months, either due to breaks or a more leisurely pace
. In summary, planning for about 5 to 7 months is realistic for most people aiming to hike the Appalachian Trail end to end.
