Hiking The Appalachian Trail — Everything You Need To Know
The Appalachian National Scenic Trail covers over 2,000 miles and passes through 14 states. The trail is credited to Benton MacKaye, a regional planner based out of Massachusetts. He promoted its creation in 1921. Joint efforts for its construction continued for more than a decade with the help of federal agencies, the Civilian Conservation Corps, and the Appalachian Trail Conference.
Today, the trail attracts more than 3 million visitors annually. But only 3,000 or so attempt to trek the entire route. They’re known as “thru-hikers”. And out of those, only one of three will make it. The trail is challenging for hikers who need to get used to long-distance hiking or navigating rugged terrain. Read on to learn more about the course and how you guide from start to finish.
The Appalachian Trail: Start to Finish
If you want to complete the entire hike, most start from Springer Mountain in March or April. So, although the slogan for the walk is “Maine to Georgia,” people usually start the other way around.
The mild climate makes starting in Georgia more sensible. But another reason is that the most challenging section of the trail is situated in New Hampshire and Maine. Hikers must be in good condition to deal with the terrain and elevation.
The trail follows the eastern ridge of the Appalachian Mountains. Note that hiking more than 2,000 miles will take quite a long time, anywhere from five to seven months. You’ll have to be prepared and committed.
Georgia
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You can access the Appalachian Trail in southern Fannin County at Springer Mountain on FS Road 42 when ready. A short hike from the parking lot will get you to the summit. The trail spans more than 78 miles. It’s rated 2–7, easy to challenging. You won’t find farmland here. Most of the course runs through the wilderness.
The highest section you’ll hit is Blood Mountain, which stands at more than 4,400 feet. It can be freezing and crowded as many “thru-hikers” start their trek to Maine while on spring break. Snow is possible, and temperatures can drop to single digits.
North Carolina
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Expect the North Carolina section of the trail to take you to high summits, including the 6,643 Clingmans Dome, the highest peak on the course. This part of the trail spans more than 96.4 miles. The path does run along the Tennessee/North Carolina border for another 220 additional miles. The sections of the trail range from easy to challenging. Note that you’ll need a permit for the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Tennessee
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The trail runs about 75 miles in Tennessee. You’ll reach high elevations here, some above 6,000 feet. This section is designated as the National Scenic Trail.
Virginia
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More than a quarter of the trail’s length runs through Virginia, spanning more than 530 miles. The track also cuts through the mountains of Shenandoah National Park. This section is designated as excellent for beginners because it is well maintained and climbs are not high, at most 500–1,000 feet.
West Virginia
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West Virginia’s section is only a little more than 25 miles. But a lot of people stop at the Appalachian Trail Conservancy. There, you can have your photos taken and log your travel. You’ll also pass through the Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, the site of notable Civil War battles.
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