The Appalachian Trail

What is the Appalachian Trail? The Appalachian Trail is a hiking trail that starts in northern Georgia and ends in north Maine. The trail is 2,175 miles long . In all, the trail runs through fourteen states on the eastern side of the Appalachian mountains. Most of the trail is owned by the public. However, there are no charges or permissions needed to use the trail.

For your hike through Appalachia to be safe and fun, planning is key. Maps are available for all sections of the trail. It's best to locate the section of the trail you wish to hike before making your journey and study it.

You will hear people who are familiar with the trail refer to two hikes. The thru hike covers the entire trail. The section hike covers sections of the trail. The section hike is appropriate for hikers who only have a couple of days or weeks available to hike.

For safety purposes, the trail is clearly marked. Trees have white rectangles painted on them to let you know you are still on the trail. As long as you keep running into these markings, you know you're on the right track. The shelters that are scattered along the trail are also helpful.

Planning for supplies and water is a crucial part of making your hike a pleasurable one. The last thing you want to do is be stuck in the wilderness without a needed item. You will need your map, compass, clothes, toilet tissue, and food. These are just a few of the most important. A first aid kit should also be packed, especially if your hike is going to last more than a few hours. There are a few safety items that are good to take with you. Three blows on a whistle is a cry for help, so taking one along is a good idea. You may also want to consider a knife and a flashlight, especially for overnight hikes. Water can be obtained throughout the trail. However, if you plan to use water on the trail, you will have to either boil it or run it through a portable filter. If you are hiking during a dry time, make sure you take water with you.

If possible, hike with someone else. The safety in numbers rule applies here. If you are alone, use good common sense. Be courteous to people you encounter, but keep your pace. Do not take anything of value with you. Do not wear jewelry. It is certainly not needed on a hiking trip and could give someone a reason to cause you trouble. A friend or family member should know your plans. Let them know what part of the trail you will be using on which days. Give them a map. This will help, should the need arise. Some of the shelters have sign in sheets, take advantage of these.

The Appalachian Trail can be a wonderful way to reconnect with nature. If you are not a serious hiker, perhaps take someone with you. There are references available that will explain some of the wildlife you will be exposed to. With some adequate planning and some good sense, a hike on the Appalachian Trail can take you back to the nature that so many of us have forgotten about.