Jaw-Dropping Destinations Hidden Along The Appalachian Trail
Stretching over 2,190 miles from Georgia to Maine, the Appalachian Trail offers hikers some of the most stunning scenery in America.
Every year, thousands of adventurers trek through forests, climb rocky peaks, and camp under starlit skies along this legendary path.
Whether you’re planning a day hike or dreaming of a thru-hike, these incredible locations will leave you speechless and remind you why nature is worth protecting.
1. McAfee Knob, Virginia
If you’ve scrolled through hiking photos online, chances are you’ve seen this iconic rocky ledge jutting out over the valley below.
The view from this spot is so stunning that it’s become one of the most photographed places on the entire trail.
Getting there involves a moderate 8-mile round trip hike that rewards you with sweeping 270-degree views of the Catawba Valley and distant mountain ranges that seem to roll on forever.
2. Clingmans Dome, Tennessee/North Carolina
At 6,643 feet, this is the highest point along the entire Appalachian Trail, offering views that’ll make your jaw drop. On clear days, you can see over 100 miles in every direction from the observation tower at the summit.
The half-mile paved trail to the top might be steep, but the panoramic vistas of the Smoky Mountains make every huffing breath worthwhile for hikers of all ages.
3. Franconia Ridge, New Hampshire
Picture yourself walking along a narrow mountain ridge with nothing but sky around you and peaks stretching endlessly in every direction. This exposed alpine traverse between Mount Lincoln and Mount
Lafayette is pure magic for anyone who loves wide-open spaces.
The 8.9-mile loop provides some of the most dramatic mountain scenery in the Northeast, though the weather can change quickly up here, so pack layers!
4. Dragon’s Tooth, Virginia
This massive quartzite spire shoots up from the ridgeline like something from a mythical tale, and scrambling to its peak feels like a real adventure.
The final ascent requires some rock climbing skills, but don’t worry – it’s manageable for most folks with steady nerves.
Once you reach the top of this 35-foot tower, the views of the surrounding valleys and mountains make the challenging climb totally worth the effort.
5. Mount Katahdin, Maine
Standing at 5,269 feet, this massive granite peak marks the northern end of the Appalachian Trail and represents the ultimate goal for thru-hikers.
The Knife Edge trail along the ridge is one of the most thrilling sections anywhere on the AT.
Reaching the summit feels like touching the sky, with views stretching across Maine’s endless wilderness that’ll make you understand why hikers journey thousands of miles to stand here.
6. Roan Highlands, Tennessee/North Carolina
When the rhododendrons bloom in June, these high-elevation balds transform into a purple wonderland that attracts nature lovers from everywhere.
The trail winds through open meadows above 6,000 feet, offering constantly changing views that never get boring.
This 13-mile section between Carvers Gap and Route 19E is often called the most beautiful stretch of the entire Appalachian Trail, and one visit will show you why.
7. Blood Mountain, Georgia
As Georgia’s highest peak on the Appalachian Trail at 4,458 feet, this mountain earned its unusual name from a legendary battle between Cherokee and Creek warriors.
The summit features a historic stone shelter built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s.
Climbing to the top rewards you with stunning 360-degree views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, making it a favorite destination for both day hikers and backpackers starting their journey.
8. Mount Washington, New Hampshire
Known for having some of the worst weather in the world, this 6,288-foot giant isn’t for the faint of heart – but the views from New England’s highest peak are absolutely legendary.
Reaching the top via the Appalachian Trail is a serious undertaking that requires preparation, but standing above the clouds makes you feel like you’re on top of the entire world.
