Trail Gear Guides

Know Your Trail.
Know Your Gear.

Trail-specific gear guides for the AT and Great Smoky Mountains. Not generic lists — gear chosen for your exact conditions.

47 Trail Guides  ·  200+ Gear Items Tested

Trail gear links earn us a small commission. Never affects our recommendations.

Ridgelines, balds, and rocky climbs

McAfee Knob in Virginia AT, VA
Virginia AT
SpringSummerFall
Editor's Choice Trail

McAfee Knob

8.8 mi · 1,740 ft · ~5 hrs

Virginia AT, VA

Trail runners or bootsWindbreakerTrekking poles

"The most photographed spot on the AT. The exposed summit means wind gear is non-negotiable even on clear days."

McAfee Knob Gear Guide →

8 items · Updated Jan 2025

AT — Grayson Highlands in Virginia AT, VA
Virginia AT
SpringSummerFall

AT — Grayson Highlands

9.5 mi · 1,800 ft · ~5 hrs

Virginia AT, VA

Waterproof bootsWind layerTrekking poles

"Wild ponies on an alpine plateau. The terrain is open and exposed — wind and rain gear more important than the moderate rating suggests."

AT — Grayson Highlands Gear Guide →

7 items · Updated Nov 2024

All 47 Trails, Mapped

From Springer Mountain in Georgia to McAfee Knob in Virginia. Every trail guide includes the exact gear we recommend for those specific conditions.

Explore the AT Corridor →
Springer Mtn (GA)SmokiesRoan HighlandsMcAfee Knob (VA)Shenandoah (VA)

Best Trails by Season

Trail conditions change dramatically on the AT. Here's what we recommend each season.

🌱 SpringMarch – May

Best picks

Gear note

"Mud season. Waterproof boots non-negotiable."

See all spring trails →
☀️ SummerJune – August

Best picks

Gear note

"Heat and humidity. Moisture-wicking layers and sun protection matter most."

See all summer trails →
🍂 FallSeptember – November

Best picks

Gear note

"Peak season. Temperature swings 40°F between trailhead and summit — layer up."

See all fall trails →
❄️ WinterDecember – February

Best picks

Gear note

"Ice and wind. Microspikes and insulated waterproof boots, no exceptions."

See all winter trails →

Can't find your trail?

We add new trail gear guides every month. Request a trail and we'll put it at the top of the list.

Or search for it above — we may already have it covered.