Platinum-Blazing the Appalachian Trail:

How to Thru-hike in 5 3-Star Luxury

THE 2024 EDITION – PREPARED IN ANTICIPATION OF THE 2024 THRU-HIKE SEASON – IS A FULLY UPDATED AND REVISED EDITION OF THE ORIGINAL GUIDE THAT IS NOW AVAILABLE AT AMAZON IN EBOOK AND PRINT – PUBLISHED OCTOBER 15, 2023

Every year, thousands of individuals set out to achieve thru-hiker immortality on an epic 2,200-mile journey along the Appalachian Trail – the most iconic and desired long-distance hike in the world. Potential hikers know to follow the “white blazes” on painted trees, rocks, and roads to direct their path forward … but we offer this supplemental navigation tool for those looking to enhance their thru-hike by taking time to experience many of the finer or premium opportunities along the AT.

Where can I find a comfortable Bed & Breakfast when I desperately need a special day off?
Which hostels have private rooms and provide extra special hiker services?
Where can I find the best fine dining for a much-needed steak dinner?
Where is the most delicious and rewarding ice cream treat?
Who has the best burger or pizza?
Which blue-blaze trails to special vistas or a waterfall are worth the extra side trip?
Which towns are on the must-stop list, and which should I avoid?
What is the single, most-special AT destination every hiker should visit?

All the questions and more are answered in this guide to Platinum-Blazing the Appalachian Trail!  Written by 2018 thru-hike finishers, this book points future hikers to the very best luxury accommodations, meals, destinations, and experiences available on the trail from Georgia to Maine.  From the eager hiker looking to plan ahead to the tired hiker looking to take a break, this guide will help you find the best places to splurge while hiking along the Appalachian Trail and turn a great hike into a platinum experience.

UPDATES

We will publish a new, revised guide in 2025. Until then, check back here for updates about the information in the book, such as business closures, ownership changes, and new places to visit for a Platinum experience. [Keep in mind, many new but yet-to-be fully-evaluated facilities are mentioned in the “What’s New?” introductory chapter to the 2024 Edition

Front Royal, Virginia: Front Royal Brewing Company is now called Vibrissa, but is otherwise unchanged in terms of our recommendation of the facility as a Platinum Brewery/Pub