About the AT
The wonderful Appalachian Trail stretches from Springer Mountain in Georgia up the east coast, ending at the top of Mt Katahdin in Maine. It is the longest hiking-only footpath in the world, totaling 2,197 miles across 14 states. The elevation change along the trial is the equivalent of hiking up Mt Everest from sea level 16 times! More than 3 million people visit the AT every year, but only about 1,000 people thru hike it annually.
AT Resources
- https://appalachiantrail.org/experience/hike-the-trail/
- https://appalachiantrail.org/experience/hike-the-trail/thru-section-hiking/friends-family-guide-to-the-trail/
- https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/9791.A_Walk_in_the_Woods
Supporting the AT
The Appalachian Trail relies heavily on public donations and volunteers to support the upkeep and maintenance of all 2,200 miles. The best ways to support the Appalachian Trail is by donating to specific conservancies, or by volunteering.
Trail Magic + Trail Angels
A very important part of every thru hikers journey is “Trail Magic” and “Trail Angels.” Trail Angels are volunteers who provide “Trail Magic”—unexpected acts of kindness, food, drinks, transportation, or lodging—to thru hikers all along the trail. Anyone can do it, and it’s incredibly appreciated as even a gatorade can go a long way!
