Platinum-Blazing the Appalachian Trail: How to Thru-hike in 3-Star Luxury

When I first learned of this new "Platinum-Blazing" guide, I was skeptical of both its value and completeness thinking it was just a review of those establishments the authors had happened to visit. But wanting to know just what it said, I ordered two copies from Amazon, one to place in our "library" of books for our guests to read and another to place in our store, thinking that a SoBo hiker might buy it regardless of its value.But when I received the books I was not just surprised. I was blown away. I have a fair knowledge of the facilities along the AT in Maine, and thought the evaluations not just complete, but spot-on. And the authors don't withhold criticism where it is due. There is a warning about the disdain one resort's other guests have for AT hikers, despite rating the resort as a platinum experience. I am familiar with this particular resort and know that its management does not promote any bias, but the criticism is valid.Along with such criticism, the authors DO recognize that long-distance hikers seeking a platinum experience will be mingling with other guests at many establishments and there is a polite reminder in the introduction to this effect.

The authors of this book have provided a well organized and comprehensive guide for those hikers seeking to fully experience the Appalachian Trail as opposed to merely walk the trail. It is an excellent resource for hike preparation. Buy the Kindle format and take it along on your hike to ensure a truly platinum adventure.This resource is for anyone planning a hike along the Appalachian Trail whether you are a thru-hiker, section hiker, or a day hiker. Thank you RTK and Sharkbait!

This book is an excellent resource. Whether you are thinking about section hiking or hiking some or all of the AT, this book will help you find the "best of the best" along the way. The book is broken down into categories for the ultimate in platinum blazing experiences. Not only does the overnight accommodations section include hostels, but it also includes B & Bs, hotels, resorts, and lodges. The Meals section includes everything from restaurants, milkshakes, and delis, to breweries, pubs and pizza. There is also a section on off-trail sites, visits and special experiences such as waterfalls, vistas, and trail towns that any hiker would greatly appreciate.We have only hiked a quarter of the trail, but we are so excited to utilize this book to make the rest of our sections Platinum!

This book does a really good job of identifying the places (lodging, food, beer, and experiences) along the AT that are worth making a special effort to visit and explaining why. I think the book is especially useful to a day hiker or section hiker that is on the AT outside of their local area. I just ordered a second copy to give to the owners of a local restaurant mentioned in the book.

Everything in here is already in Guthook and AWOL

A new take on hiking the AT! I love the focus on creature comforts and knowing you don't have to be miserable while completing a long distance hike!

Good reviews of accommodations and services, so far as they go. Only “platinum” ones are reviewed, so the coverage is severely limited.

I like that this is a completely different look at accommodations and experiences along the AT. If you're an aspiring thru-hiker with a larger than average budget, this is a must read.

A really useful supplement to any AT hike if you're able to pay for a bit of comfort, and good meals. I wish I had seen it before I did my hike!