AT Information

I decided that after finishing school and before beginning the rest of my life, that I wanted to go have an adventure! This might be one of the only times in my life that I have the time and the money to do something that would require both. I threw around different ideas and finally settled on hiking the AT, something that was kind of hanging out in the back of my mind after reading Bill Bryson's A Walk in the Woods.

I started to research everything I could, and even told a few people my plans. With the passing of the last year, my idea has turned into a reality and I've found great support and encouragement from my family and friends. A big thanks to Steve B. for all his advice and help.

I have a HUGE list of different resources for the AT/hiking/backpacking, etc. I thought maybe compiling them all in one place would be helpful not only for me, but in case anyone else is interested, or just FYI, here you go!

General Info:
Trailquest (general info - good gear checklists, articles, resupply list)
Trailplace (great forums for newbie questions, articles, etc.)
Backpacking Lightweight
Appalachian Pages (guidebook)
Appalachian Trail Conservancy
Appalachian Trail Home Page
White Blaze
The Backpacker
Fixing Your Feet
Shuttle Services

Gear:
REI (also great info/advice)
Sierra Trading Post (discounted gear)
Spadout (camping/hunting/hiking price compiler)
Campmor
Backcountry Gear
Gear Comparisons (all kinds of gear in SPREADSHEETS! OMGOMGOMG)
AntigravityGear
Vargo Outdoors (good backpacking tutorial link & gear lists)

Cooking:
Stove Comparison
Cobra Stove
Soda Can Stove
Soda Can Stove
Wings Stove Archives
Freezer Bag Cooking

I have to say that by reading the different forums/message boards and trailjournals I had many of my questions answered without even having to ask them and these resources have been a great help. Especially Trailplace, where everyone has been especially helpful and friendly.
Thank you!