Springer Mountain Approach Trail Southern Terminus

The bronze plaque embedded in a boulder at Springer Mountain’s 3,782-foot summit marks Mile Zero of the 2,190-mile Appalachian Trail. This windswept clearing offers 360-degree views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and serves as the emotional starting point for thousands of thru-hikers each spring. The actual trailhead sits 8.8 miles below via the Approach Trail, but the summit itself holds the true significance — and the best photo opportunity.

The final mile to the summit involves moderate scrambling over granite outcrops. Spring sees heavy foot traffic from northbound thru-hikers, while fall offers better solitude and leaf-peeping. The access road (FS 42) can be rough after winter weather, requiring high-clearance vehicles during muddy periods.

Mile Zero of the Appalachian Trail