I just returned from a section hike on the AT, Springer Mtn to Hot Springs, NC. Saw and got to know dozens of fledging thru hikers. Almost all had fairly heavy 35-55 lb packs. Most used alpine ascent type backpacks by Gregory or Osprey that have whopping suspension systems for carrying a lot of weight. Maybe 10% of the hikers we saw used lightweight gear, like vapor trail, ULA, or Golite packs. We were the only ones I saw using tarptents; everyone else used heavier tents with flys and tons of poles.

We walked with a man for two days who used a pack with an 85 liter capacity, and it was full! (He complained of knee problems).

Several of these heavyweight backpackers left the trail around Fontana Dam; 160 miles in.

Our packs were 24-26 lbs; not ultralight but served us well. We hiked 273 miles in 20 days.