What's Included
What's NOT Included
Trip Itinerary
Click below for our all inclusive itinerary guide, it will surely build your confidence to go on your first big adventrue
Day 1 - McAfee Knob
Trailhead: Dragons McAfee Knob Trailhead
Hiking Distance: 4.4 Miles
Elevation Gain: 1200ft+
Elevation Loss: 600ft+
We’ll meet at the McAfee Knob Trailhead and start the trip with a relaxed orientation designed to set you up for success. We’ll go over packing your bag, adjusting your pack for comfort, using a water filter, and making sure you have everything you need to hike safely and confidently.
Early in the day, we’ll visit McAfee Knob, the most photographed spot on the Appalachian Trail. We’ll take time to enjoy the view and ease into the experience before continuing on at a comfortable pace.
From there, we’ll hike about 4.5 miles along the Appalachian Trail to Campbell Shelter. Once at camp, we’ll help you get settled and walk through what a smooth first night on trail looks like, so you feel capable, supported, and ready for the days ahead.
Day 2 - Tinker Cliffs
Hiking Distance: 4.9 Miles
Elevation Gain: 900ft+
Elevation Loss: 500ft+
Day two builds on the confidence you gained on your first night on trail. We’ll hike about 4.9 miles toward Tinker Cliffs, moving at a steady, comfortable pace and taking time to enjoy the scenery along the way.
We’ll set up camp within walking distance of the incredible views along Tinker Cliffs, giving you the chance to experience the overlooks without the pressure of carrying a full pack the entire way. By the end of the day, you’ll feel more comfortable with your gear, your pace, and the flow of life on trail, all while taking in some of the most memorable views on this section of the Appalachian Trail.
Day 3 - Hiking Home
Hiking Distance: 4 Miles
Elevation Gain: 0ft
Elevation Loss: 2,000ft+
Day three brings a challenging but rewarding 4-mile hike along the Andy Lane Trail, including a steady 2,000-foot descent to the Andy Lane Trailhead. It’s a tougher morning, but by this point you’ll have the skills, confidence, and trail awareness to handle it. We’ll take it slow, use good footing, and manage the descent together.
Once we reach the trailhead, we’ll shuttle everyone back to their vehicles at the McAfee Knob Trailhead, so you can wrap up the trip without any logistical stress. You’ll finish tired in the best way, proud of what you accomplished, and confident in what you’re capable of on the trail.