We all agree that the A.T is an incredible stretch of beautiful land. Even if the longest hiking-only footpath in the world is not an easy one, the views alone will more than compensate. And with such a vast stretch, some places will get frequent mentions while others, no less stunning, will often be overlooked. The places on the trail that are often highlighted are such places as Grayson Highlands, Roan Highlands, Virginia’s Triple Crown comprising Dragon's Tooth, McAfee Knob, and Tinker Cliffs; swathes of Maine and New Hampshire—and perhaps needless to say—the Shenandoah and the Smokies. Of course, life is not fair, and we should probably get used to that fact. Still, there’s no loss in trying to balance things out, so everyone can get what she deserves.
Here, therefore, are the most underrated sections of the Appalachian Trail anyone might want to check out.
10 The Mt Race/Bear Mountain Area
Granted, sections of this area are hard to hike, especially as one gets to Mt. Race. Here’s where some of the steepest sections of the A.T. will be waiting for already tired hikers. Then again, aside from being exacting, it so happens that this place is eclipsed by neighboring attractions that have fame and popularity on their side. But at more than 2,000 feet above sea level and nestled within spectacular forest ridge lines, this is a section that should see more faces of hikers and not their retreating backs. The same is true of the area right up to Bear Mountain, noted for its rugged heights and soothing seas of conifers.
9 Jersey
While it so happens that the hardest trails are usually the most scenic, Jersey is an amazing exception. Here’s where one will get goosebumps without breaking a sweat since it’s among the easier parts of the trail. The Delaware Water Gap, on the border of Jersey and the Keystone State, is particularly worth checking out. And who doesn’t like the Jersey Boardwalk?
8 Sections Of Central Maine
If we live out Mt Katahdin, almost all the lofty mountains on the Maine Appalachian Trail are in southern Maine. And, of course, Baxter State Park, Appalachian Trail's Northernmost point, will hardly disappoint. Yet, the 90-kilometer stretch that starts from the end of the Bigelows through Monson is wild and damn pretty. That is without even factoring in the many cool lakes that a tired hiker can soak in.
7 Southern Pennsylvania
While Pennsylvania is called "Rocksylvania" because of its rocky terrain, the southern parts of the state completely dispel that rocky notion. Instead, and this may come as a surprise, the southern sections of Pennsylvania feature some of the gentlest and mildest terrains of the entire 2,200-mile A.T. A good tip is to check out the A.T. Museum in Pine Grove State Park for the popular “Half Gallon Challenge.”
6 Mass 9 To Vermont State Line
This scenic trail is 27.6 miles long and starts from Dalton, a town that’s one of the best pictures of New England. While Dalton and the area around are all cool and charming, the high point of this stretch is its proximity to a number of towns and hence, a break to grab a bite or just stroll through a street. These include Cheshire, North Adams, and of course, Dalton itself. And for a side trip, Pittsfield has an Amtrak Station and is literally a stroll away.
5 Watauga Dam through 19E, Hump Mountain
This stretch features what is arguably the most gorgeous section of the A.T in the southeast. It will not be easy on the calf muscles as many sections are unbelievably steep, rough, and hard, especially on the north sides of Hump Mountain, but when finally through, the effort will appear as nothing because of the visual feast magnificently spread out all around.
- A Suggestion On Where To Stop: Doll Flats has a fresh spring and a whole field of berries.
4 Dick's Creek Gap Through Blue Mountain
The views around Tray Mountain and Rocky Knob are some best-kept secrets of the Appalachian Trail. Then again, the landscape along this stretch of the trail is so diverse that it can never be boring.
- A Trail Highlight: The weirdly gnarled Bly Gap Oak Tree marks the first border crossing from Georgia into North Carolina.
3 The Nantahala Region
This is a precipitous area where streams skid and glide down from lofty mountain heights with grace and poise—while lakes and ponds gleam softly in the distance as if sending light and love to spellbound onlookers. Those who like the regal allure of high summits will find only a few other spots along the trail that are as exciting as this panoramic stretch.
2 Bald Knob Through To Waynesboro
This stretch in Northern Central Virginia is hard. Everyone will agree. However, it does have some of the best visual rewards on the entire trail. Special highlights are the stretch over Cole Mountain and the Priest/Three Ridges.
- A Place To Check Out: Devil's Backbone Brewery.
1 Davenport Gap Through Highlands
This is an extensive stretch that can easily cut through the span of several states, yet for its expanse, it is stunning at almost every other mile. But if a few must be picked, Unaka, Big Bald, and Max Patch must never miss on any list.