Here are the 5 best things to know about hiking the Appalachian Trail in the US.
Are you a hiker? Do you fancy an epic adventure trekking the longest trail in the world? Not Canada or Australia, you’ll find this trail in none other than the US of A!
So, the Appalachian Trail is the longest hiking-only footpath in the world, ranging from the Springer Mountains in Maine to Mount Katahdin in Georgia, USA.
It spans across an amazing 14 states including eight different national forests, and many state parks, forests, and game lands.
The vast trail covers nearly 2,190-miles which is not a distance to be sniffed at.
Things to Know About the Appalachian Trail
What do you need to know if you are planning on a hiking trip through this amazing and diverse trail?
1) The Routes You Can Take
Thru-Hiking
If you have time and a strong willingness for adventure then you can trek the whole trail in one go! It will take a battle of wills and a few months of your life, but if you are game then why not?
READ MORE: Check out our guide to all the best things to do in Asheville NC!
Multi-Day Hiking
Want to complete the whole trail but don’t have a few months to spare? You can take multi day trips and split the route over short trips across a span of a few years.
Pick a spot in the Shenandoah Valley, for instance, and head on some great hikes along the trail.
Day Treks
For short day hikes, access the trail from any a number of entrances in the park. In most of the areas there are no fees or permits for day hiking.
You could also take part in the 14 State Challenge and step foot in each of the 14 states that the Appalachian Trail crosses.
2) What To Pack
What to bring with you will obviously depend on which route you are going to take but there are some essentials you should never be without.
A good well packed backpack is essential and I would advise using packing cubes to maximise your space.
Check out some more details about packing cubes here.
Clothing & Equipment
- Hiking boots – Make sure they are broken in though, don’t start your trek in brand new boots.
- Pack clothes for the worst weather – Synthetic fabrics and acrylic blends or wool or silk instead of cotton help protect you against the dangers of hypothermia.
- Raincoat – A breathable waterproof outer shell with layers underneath is better than a heavy overcoat.
First Aid and Safety
- A whistle – (did you know three blasts on a whistle is the international signal…
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