how to hike the at course

Where should I start my hike?

Increasingly, hikers are choosing to start somewhere in the middle of the Trail. Generally, these itineraries offer a gradual progression from easier to more difficult terrain and more frequent resupplies.

How can I find hiking lessons?

If you have friends who hike, ask them to take you on a trek. Most people are happy to share their expertise, let you borrow gear and introduce newbies to their favorite trails. If you don’t know any hikers, many cities and towns have hiking clubs that regularly plan outings. You can find hiking classes, outings and events through REI Experiences.

Are You adequately prepared for a thru hike?

Adequately preparing for the A.T. means adequately preparing your wallet insofar as possible, not just your body and mind. While most hostels and outfitters can in some capacity understand that a thru-hikers budget is sometimes tight, they are businesses who do not always appreciate being asked for discounts and handouts.

How many feet does it take to hike the at?

When thru-hiking the AT, you will climb a total amount of 515,000 feet—the equivalent of going to the summit of Mt. Everest more than 17 times. What is the fastest thru-hike of the AT?

Can you hike the Appalachian Trail with no experience?

At 2,190 miles (3,524 km), the Appalachian Trail is no joke. Many people spend countless nights out in the backcountry and take on years training to be able to complete the trail in one go. However, while it is possible to complete the AT with minimal experience, it's not necessarily recommended.

How do I get in shape to hike the AT?

Training for Hiking – 9 Ways to Get in ShapeGo for a brisk walk. If you are a novice hiker, start your training regimen by walking around your neighborhood, local park, or beach. ... Take the stairs. ... Work on your core. ... Get used to your backpack. ... Try resistance bands. ... Do lunges. ... Get a jump rope. ... Incorporate push-ups.More items...•

How much money do you need to hike the Appalachian Trail?

$5,000 to $7,000How much does it cost to hike the Appalachian Trail? The average cost of thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail ranges from $5,000 to $7,000 for a 5- to 7-month hike; that amount includes gear, trail resupply, and town expenses. Expect to spend about $1,000 a month per person.

Can a beginner hike the Appalachian Trail?

Despite how intimidating that may sound, beginners can scale the Appalachian Trail's numerous mountains and treat themselves to some of the most gorgeous views on earth.

Do you have to be in good shape to hike the Appalachian Trail?

Get physical. Hiking the Appalachian Trail is going to beat you up. Being in better shape will minimize that buttkicking. It will still hurt, no matter what, but I promise that it will hurt less if you've been exercising and pushing your body before you begin.

When should I start hiking the Appalachian Trail?

To avoid crowds and winter conditions, the optimal time to start a northbound thru-hike is the window between April 15 and the first week of May.

How do you shower on the Appalachian Trail?

Showers are rarely available right on the ​A.T. Hikers usually shower while at hostels or hotels in towns; less common are campgrounds with shower facilities. To bathe in the backcountry, carry water 200 feet from the water source in a container and rinse or wash yourself away from streams, springs and ponds.

Is it easy to get lost on the Appalachian Trail?

"The trail is very well marked around there, but if you step off the trail the brush is very thick, it can be very easy to get disoriented," Doug Dolan, Maine Appalachian Trail Club, said. "Just take a step off that trail and turn around, you can't even see the trail. It just blends in with the background."

Where do you sleep on the Appalachian Trail?

Normally, you can expect a roof and a wood floor to sleep on. In addition there are usually water sources located near a shelter, such as a spring, a stream, or a river, but not always. Make sure to check your guide or maps beforehand.

Can you hike the Appalachian Trail without camping?

It's possible to hike the Appalachian Trail without a tent. That's a shelter about every 8 miles on average. They're free. So "thru-hikers," people who walk the full distance in a continuous hike, often leave the tent at home, saving as much as 5 pounds from their backpacks.

What is the hardest part of the Appalachian Trail?

Mount Katahdin From the perspective of a northbound thru-hiker, the Appalachian Trail saves the most epic for last. That is to say, the trail's northern terminus, Mount Katahdin, is not only one of the most challenging ascents of the entire trail, it is also one of the most spectacular.

What is the easiest state on the Appalachian Trail?

No time to hike the Appalachian Trail? Try these 12 easy section hikesDelaware River, New Jersey/Pennsylvania 15.9 miles one-way (two days) ... Anthony's Nose, New York 2.2 miles round-trip. ... Taconic Highlands, Massachusetts 16.9 one way (two days) ... Presidential Range, New Hampshire 88 miles (nine days)More items...

What is the longest hiking trail in the world?

The Appalachian Trail is the longest hiking-only footpath in the world, ranging from Maine to Georgia. Use the interactive map below to explore the Trail, find shelters, locate parking and more. Explore by State.

Is the Appalachian Trail a day hike?

A day hike on the Appalachian Trail can be a vigorous hike to an amazing destination or a wonder-filled nature walk. It can be easy or challenging. Here are things to consider and a variety of approaches. Spans from spending an overnight on the A.T. to hiking every part of the ​Trail. Multi-Day Hiking.

How to hike all day?

Once a week, get in a five-plus-hour hike with a pack load equal to your AT weight. Go on at least one 30-mile shakedown backpack ing trip.

How many thru hikers give up after a few days?

About 15% of thru-hikers give up after just a few days of hiking through Georgia. Did you know: About 50% of Appalachian Trail thru-hikers are in their twenties, according to the Appalachian Trail Conservancy.

What do you need to know about the Appalachian Trail?

Everything You Need to Know About Thru-Hiking the Appalachian Trail. The Appalachian Trail is the adventure of a lifetime. Make it yours with our ultimate guide to the country's most famous footpath and the prep, gear, and knowledge you'll need to go the distance. July 4, 2021 BACKPACKER Editors, Michael Lanza.

Why do people use stoves on the trail?

Because the trail tends to get over-crowded, reducing human impact on the environment is encouraged. Try using stoves instead of building campfires, sleeping in shelters rather than tents, and avoiding the trail during the most popular months.

How long is the Appalachian Trail?

It is approximately 2,184 miles long and is famous for the thru-hikers who attempt to travel its full distance in a single season. An unofficial extension, known as the International Appalachian Trail, continues north into Canada and ends in Newfoundland and Labrador.

How long does it take to hike 554 miles in Virginia?

Virginia and West Virginia 554 miles, about 40 days. This is where you’ll hit your stride. The path here is relatively easy, with modest elevation changes and good tread. Plus, you’ll have your trail legs under you after the first month; many thru-hikers crank out 20-mile days here.

Which state has the longest section of the Appalachian Trail?

The three states with the shortest segments are West Virginia (4 miles), Maryland (41 miles), and Connecticut (51 miles).

Where to hike the A.T.?

The trail takes hikers up, over, and around the beautiful wooded mountains of the Chattahoochee, Nantahala, Pisgah, and Cherokee National Forests. Though these peaks are generally considered easier to ascend than those in New England, the climbs here are frequent and considerable in size. The Southern Mountains are home to the highest peaks found on the entire trail. In this region, thru-hikers have the privilege of hiking through some of the A.T.’s most beautiful areas including the Great Smoky Mountain National Park as well as the high grassy balds unique to the region.

What is the most important resource for thru-hikers?

Water is the most important resource thru-hikers must learn to manage on the A.T. Usually water is easy to find on the trail. As hikers meander through the woods they’ll cross numerous fresh springs, streams, ponds, rivers, and lakes from which they can draw water .

What is trail magic?

hikers is “trail magic”. Trail magic describes random acts of kindness bestowed upon hikers often by complete strangers. The kind souls who gift hikers with trail magic are commonly referred to as Trail Angels. Unsurprisingly, many Trail Angels are former thru-hikers “paying it forward”–returning the kindness they received on the trail to current hikers. However, anyone can be a Trail Angel whether they are familiar with the A.T. or not. Trail Magic can be something as simple as a free snack or it can be as elaborate as setting up a small coffee shop at a road crossing. Some Trail Angels even make a habit of inviting hikers into their homes. All it takes is a kind heart and a willingness to help a hiker along their way. You can find information for “professional” Trail Angels offering shuttles and lodging in some guidebooks and occasionally at outfitters.

How many hikers can a shelter hold?

Shelters vary in size with some holding as few as 5 hikers and others as many as 20. However, shelters operate on a first-come-first-serve basis and are open to all A.T. travelers, not just thru-hikers.

How long is the Appalachian Trail in Virginia?

Nearly a quarter of the entire trail passes through Virginia alone–that’s over 550 miles! By comparison just a scant four miles pass through West Virginia. Though contained within those miles is a crucial landmark: the headquarters of the Appalachian Trail Conservancy in historic Harpers Ferry, WV. Hikers travel along Virginia’s spine through the Jefferson and George Washington National Forests. In southern Virginia hikers see the state’s highest summits along with the open balds of Grayson Highlands State Park… including the wild ponies! From there, the mountains begin to transition from high-rising peaks to the more modest ridge lines of central Virginia, where hikers see woodland and farmland collide in the valleys below. While elevations may begin to decline hikers are not yet free from occasional long, difficult climbs and descents. In northern Virginia, hikers travel through the Shenandoah Mountains side-by-side with the famed Blue Ridge Parkway, Skyline Drive, and over 100 miles through wondrous Shenandoah National Park.

When did Mackaye start the Appalachian Trail?

In 1925 MacKaye eventually found enough like-minded individuals to organize the Appalachian Trail Conference (eventually becoming the Appalachian Trail Conservancy, ATC) and begin developing a plan of action for the heart of his proposal: a walking trail from New England to Georgia.

How many huts are there in the White Mountains?

The AMC operates 8 huts along the A.T. through the White Mountains. These huts do not operate like conventional shelters. These huts are staffed by AMC crew members who provide lodging, home-cooked meals, and educational programs for paying guests. For thru-hikers to earn a place at one of these huts requires either a reservation with a substantial fee or a work-for-stay agreement with the hut’s crew. Given the fluctuating nature of a thru-hike it is highly unlikely a thru-hiker will be successful making and keeping an advance reservation (much less want to pay for it). Rather most thru-hikers will rely on the work-for-stay option, but this is by no means a guarantee either. Work-for-stays are first-come-first-serve and are entirely up to the discretion of the operating crew. Also space available for work-for-stay hikers is very limited with each hut usually accepting only 2 – 4 hikers per night. Naturally there are some exceptions. In special circumstances a hut may welcome in more hikers, such as during bad weather. Also Lakes of the Clouds hut has a basement shelter called “The Dungeon” where hikers can pay $10 for a bunk.

What to do when you have friends who hike?

If you have friends who hike, ask them to take you on a trek. Most people are happy to share their expertise, let you borrow gear and introduce newbies to their favorite trails.

What are the essentials for hiking?

Start by making sure you’re carrying the Ten Essentials. This is a collection of gear and clothing that all hikers should carry whenever they step onto the trail. The collection includes items for navigation, sun protection, insulation, illumination, first aid, fire, repairs, nutrition, hydration and emergency shelter. Learn more in our article about the Ten Essentials.

How much water do you need for a day hike?

Water treatment: Many hikers carry all the water they will need for a day hike. However, if you anticipate needing more than about 3 liters , that can be quite heavy. By filtering and treating water from backcountry streams and lakes, you refill your water bottles or hydration reservoir and reduce your load. Learn more:

How fast can you walk?

An average walking pace is about 3 mph, but your hiking pace may be slower than that depending on terrain, elevation gain and how much weight you’re carrying on your back. Elevation gain: The amount of elevation gain on a hike is one factor that determines the difficulty.

What is the best way to immerse yourself in nature?

Hiking for Beginners. Hiking is a wonderful way to immerse yourself in the outdoors. Transported by your own two feet and carrying only what you need for the day on your back, you can discover the beauty of nature at whatever pace you’re comfortable with.

What to use to dry out a pack?

Another option is to use a bandana as a “pee rag” that you can tie to the outside of your pack to dry out. Most day hikers take care of their other business before they head out. But if the urge strikes midhike, again make sure you’re off the trail and 200 feet from water.

Can kids go hiking?

Kids of almost any age can go hiking, from infants in baby carriers to grade-schoolers who hike on their own two feet. Tips: Keep kids dry, warm and fed. Choose a short hike and stop often to look at plants, rocks, animals, etc.

The Physical Therapist as the Patient

Using my skills as a PT, I am preparing to thru-hike the AT in 2020. I have the benefit of being both the therapist and the patient. I have suffered severe injuries from being hit by a car while running, and then later again after a head-on car collision. Two years ago, I underwent a right hip replacement due to a combination of factors.

Taking a History

Preparing for thru-hiking the AT, I want to prevent injuries. I want not only to complete my hike but to enjoy it. Looking at my history reveals what factors may make me more prone to certain injuries or pain during my journey. I will be turning 50. Although I hate to admit it, I can’t just go out and run a half marathon without training anymore.

What Am I Worried About?

This crazy, wonderful, life-changing activity does come with risks. Blisters and plantar fasciitis can occur when a person walks more than his or her usual distance, carries excess weight, or wears improper footwear.

Acceptance

No matter how much I prepare, and how much planning I do, I know there will be tough moments. There will be days I hurt, days I feel mentally beat, and days I am cold and tired. I hope on those days that I can remember progress rarely occurs on a steady course. Nothing I do now is going to make this an easy endeavor. I don’t want it to be easy.

The Takeaway

We all have unique strengths, weaknesses, quirks, and stressors. In the medical system, you have to know the true diagnosis to effectively treat it. It is the same here. You have to know your weaknesses in order to address them.

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Over the course of an evening lecture and an overnight field trip, students learn about planning, gear, and tips and tricks to help make overnights comfortable in the wildernes s. Students are also required to complete Wilderness Skills, Hiking Skills, or the equivalent.

What is wilderness skills?

Wilderness Skills is designed to prepare outdoor enthusiasts for hiking or backpacking in the forests, mountains and trails of the Pacific Northwest. This course is also the foundation or first Module for the Alpine Scrambling Course and the Basic Climbing Courses with the Olympia Branch.