Hi,
We're heading to Virginia to hike along the Appalachian Trail. For those that have experienced this area, I'm hoping you can provide some feedback on whether or not there's cell signal. I realize it's difficult to make a blanket statement yes or no, but just trying to get a feel for what to expect. This is just for determining whether or not an additional communication device is needed. I have very little interest in actually looking at my phone while out in the wilderness! :)
Thanks
It varies. You need to look up individual carriers. here's Verizon (usually best coverage in most of the country) as an example: https://www.verizonwireless.com/featured/better-matters/?map=4glte#maps. You also have to think of the topography--there are likely to be breaks depending on where the cell towers are located and what kind of cover you have. Cell service generally is poor in national parks because they don't build cell towers all over the place.
You also have to think of the topography--there are likely to be breaks depending on where the cell towers are located and what kind of cover you have.
Ridges and trees could block your access. This is very common along the trail.
In general, I wouldn't rely on cell coverage.
Open signal and Sensorly are better judges of coverage. At least for att they make it look like the entire country is covered but it’s a lie. Or it’s like 1 bar which is useless.
Or it's like asking if someone has made this specific trek, on this specific trail, in this specific state, enough times to report back useful information.
in this specific state
FTR, Virginia has 550.3 miles (885.6 km) of the AT, more than any other state. That's a lot of miles to accurately confirm specific circumstances.
Fair. I was just trying to gather some general feedback in order to determine if a purchase needed to be made. I realize there's no exact answer, but if the feedback received from multiple people who have experience along this trek was positive (however sporadic), then perhaps the purchase (or rental) won't be needed.
Thanks
These may be helpful.
https://www.whiteblaze.net/forum/showthread.php/120454-Cell-phone-coverage-on-the-AT
https://www.reddit.com/r/AppalachianTrail/comments/7xrog8/best_cell_networkplan_for_a_thru_hike/#bottom-comments
https://sectionhiker.com/appalachian-trail-cell-phone-guide/
https://thetrek.co/appalachian-trail/at-hiking-and-cell-service-pay-as-you-go-cell-phones/
