Hi DO4SKY,
Sounds like a fun trip! I have done a lot of SOTA/hiking on the AT in both the Mid Atlantic and New England so I can give you some pretty good advice.
I carry a USB power brick that has PD capability. That with an adpater gives me 12VDC that I can use with my HF radio and HT. This video explains it: Powering a HF Radio off of a USB PD Battery - YouTube
Most AT summits (with the exception of the Whites and Katahdin) will have trees that you can hang your J-pole from. I always carry a lightweight collapsible fishing pole that I can use in the event there are no trees at the summit. Considering the length of your hike, the weight might not be worth it.
I personally carry an Arrow antenna that I have modified for weight and space savings. Due to the higher directed gain, I get better results with it. Ultimate Arrow Antenna Modifications - YouTube
2M used to be really good in New England, but it seems like in the last few years it has started to die off and not be as popular. If you can, bring a small HF QRP radio which will guarantee your success in SOTA activation’s.
Some AT resources: Appalachian Trail Google Map
LongTrailsMap
You should download the Far Out app for the AT. This pretty much what everyone is using on the trail.
FarOut Guides on the App Store
2022 Hostels Page: https://whiteblaze.net/forum/articles/2022-hostels.pdf
*Though if it was me, I would stealth camp instead. Your risk may vary.
Lastly, I have done a bunch of AT SOTA activation trip reports. Click on the state that interests you:
https://kb1hqs.com/state-map/
Have fun and be safe!
73,
Stuart, KB1HQS.com