- 2,190+ mile trail (one way typically)
- Expert
- Crosses 14 states
- Takes about 5-7 months to complete
- There are huts located along the trail, although may not be a bad idea to bring camping gear
- list of essentials listed at the end
The Appalachian Trail is a difficult hike that not many people are able to complete, as it is a very long hike that requires lots of strength, endurance, and commitment. During this hike, you will experience all different types of weather, experience things not many humans experience throughout their lifetime. Many people choose to start in the south, reaching Springer Mountain in Georgia first. You will end in Maine on Mount Katahdin in Maine. You can also do this trail north to south, just depends on your desire. As this trail is long, it may be best to plan to your starting time based around the weather you will experience in certain months. In the northern states, you may experience snowy conditions during cold months, whereas in the south, this is less likely. Throughout this hike, you will experience all different types of terrain, between rock scrambles, muddy conditions, and even icy conditions depending on the time of year. The number of peaks that get summitted on this hike are not counted, as the goal for hikers is not about summitting as many peaks as possible. This hike takes lots of training and preparation and is recommended to start with smaller through hikes.
List of essentials:
- navigation tools: maps, compass, and gps (bring extra batteries)
- Insulation: sleeping bags, lots of layers, rain jackets, wool/fleece lined clothing
- hydration: 2 liters of water and a water purification system
- shelter: tent, tarp, or hammock
- personal hygiene: toiletries, reusable water bottles, wipes, sanitizer, waste bags
- footwear: comfortable hiking shoes that give ankle support as you will be crossing lots of uneven terrain
- accessories: waterproof bags for rainy days to save valuables, money for food at huts, lightweight bag to store everything in
