The 122 mile stretch of the Appalachian Trail (AT) through the White Mountain National Forest (WMNF) and Mahoosucs Range is maintained by the AMC, and is one of the most spectacular sections of the trail, traversing 17 4,000-foot peaks, a rare alpine ecosystem, and passing four designated Wilderness areas. It is also an area subject to severe weather, particularly above treeline, and due to its popularity, requires special consideration by hikers and backpackers.
The AMC maintains 14 backcountry shelter and tentsite locations in the White Mountains and Mahoosucs on or near the AT; there is a caretaker and a fee is charged at most in the summer months. These are operated on a first-come, first-served basis, although groups or six or more are encouraged to use our group notification system for planning their trips during busy periods.
AMC also operates eight backcountry huts in the White Mountains, each a day hike apart on the Appalachian Trail, which offer breakfast, dinner, and bunks in summer months. Each are operated “off the grid” using alternative energy and sustainable operating principles. AMC’s Joe Dodge Lodge and Pinkham Notch Visitor Center, located on at AT in Pinkham Notch, also offers overnight accommodations, meals, a store with guidebooks, maps, and essential gear, and an information center.
The following resources will help make your Appalachian Trail hiking experience both safe and rewarding.
Resources
Trip Ideas
AT Guidebooks and Maps
The
Appalachian Trail Conservancy publishes a comprehensive series of guidebooks and maps of the entire Appalachian Trail. Thru-hikers will also want to consider the
Appalachian Thru-Hikers Companion, published by the Appalachian Long Distance Hiker’s Association. AT guidebooks are available through the
AMC Store, AMC retail locations, the ATC, outdoor retailers and other booksellers.
Thru-hikers interested in detailed maps and guides to the AT in the White Mountains may want to consider our AMC White Mountain Trail Guides and Maps or sign up for White Mountain Guide Online.
