I have a large, flexible window available to do the section from Manchester Center, VT ==> Katahdin in 2019. Unfortunately, it is from March 1 - June 30. I have completed the rest of the trail, and want to finish before I turn 50 this year.
The biggest concerns are :
1) extreme cold, ice, and snow, especially in the Whites
2) mud
3) black flies (and, to a lesser degree, mosquitos)
One BIG advantage I have is extreme flexibility. I will be able to wait and see how much snow there is, and evaluate the conditions in March, or even April and May, as to when I'd start. Most people seem to advise not entering Vermont during April-May mud season, and the Whites can be super difficult with weather and snow/ice in the Spring, too.
Is there sometimes a window when hiking is OK in the Northeast before the sludge/slush/mud forms? I know each year is different, but I'm able to play that by ear. I have a good 10 degree quilt and good lightweight clothing for the temperatures.
Thanks for any advice you may have. I've done a bunch of research on this topic, but haven't found too much...