East Coast Getaways: Hiking The Appalachian Trail

Each year, over four million hikers tackle the epic Appalachian Trail. Covering 2,160 miles through 14 states, the Appalachian Trail is the essential hiking opportunity on the East Coast. Running from Katahdin mountain in Maine to Springer mountain in Georgia, the Appalachian Trail lures hikers from all over the world, but only ten percent complete the entire trek. Regardless of whether you're a seasoned hiker interested in tackling the trail's difficult climbs and monstrous distance or a day hiker wanting to enjoy its natural beauty, the Appalachian Trail is an excellent choice.

Another reason that attracts hikers to the Trail is its location. It is close to many major cities on the East Coast. It is easy to get there and spend the entire summer or just a weekend. Moreover, almost all the land is public property so you don't have to seek permission or pay fees. However, you will need to get registered and pay a fee for overnight stay in many places. Shelters are available along the trail at comfortable distances. The small towns that come on the way also offer accommodation to hikers. It is advisable to engage a guide who will show you the trail marks and places to rest.

The trail is marked with white rectangles painted on signs, trees, fence posts, and buildings. If you plan on enjoying a day or short overnight hike, you should plan your route carefully. Especially if you are only on the trail for a day, you should know how far you plan to hike and what time you need to turn around and begin your return hike. Be sure to take plenty of nutritious food, such as protein bars and snacks, in addition to water with you on your hike. There are no water fountains on the trail, but there are many natural springs and other sources of water. For the overnight hiker, you should know where you plan to establish your camp site, since the buildings are spaced a great distance apart. Also, know if you need to pay for your overnight stay and if you need to register with anyone.

Those who plan to go all the way up must remember that it is quite a lot of work. It is difficult at places and involves much climbing. You can get more information from the Appalachian Trail Conference and other hikers who will tell you about their experiences. The Internet is another way to meet other hikers and get useful tips. You cannot complete the entire trail of 2,168 miles in a week. Set a target for each day but do not exhaust yourself. Change your plan if the need arises. Don't forget to make proper arrangements because the trail is secluded. Never go alone. Always inform someone about your plan to hike the trail. Keep checking in with a friend or family memeber off and on; this will protect you if something unpredictable happens. Carry enough water and keep drinking it so you don't get dehydrated in the hot weather. These precautions can keep you safe and you will enjoy your hike.

The Appalachian Trail is an ideal opportunity for hikers of all skill levels. Whatever your reason for hiking, you will certainly enjoy your experience of hiking the Appalachian Trail, and will carry its memeory for the rest of your life.

(Source: HikingAdventure, AbelWanderner)

Related Links:
Appalaction Trail Conservancy
Trails.com - Appalachian Trail
National Park Service - Appalachian Trail
Appalachian Trail - Resources

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