Last updated on December 9th, 2022 at 11:06 am
The 12 Best Reasons to Hike the Appalachian Trail This Year
The Appalachian Trail is one of the most popular hiking trails in the United States, and for good reason. From rugged mountain ranges and rolling hills to dense forests and peaceful lakes, hikers are treated to a variety of views along the way.
There are countless reasons to hike the Appalachian Trail. First, it is a great way to get exercise and fresh air. Second, it is a beautiful trail with lots of scenery to enjoy. Third, it is a great way to meet new people and make new friends.
If you are thinking about hiking the Appalachian Trail, then keep reading to learn more about what you can expect.
Table of Contents
What is the Appalachian Trail Known For?
The Appalachian Trail is one of the most well-known hiking trails in the world. Thousands of people attempt to hike the entire trail each year, and many more hike sections of the trail.
The Appalachian Trail is known for its scenic views, varied terrain, and challenge. Hikers who attempt to thru-hike the trail often do so to test their limits and to experience the beauty of the natural world.
12 Reasons to Hike the Appalachian Trail
Here are our top 12 reasons to hike the Appalachian Trail and why it is such a rewarding experience.
The Trail is Free
The trail is a huge public asset, and it’s free to hike the entire length of the Appalachian Trail.
Oldest Trail
The Appalachian Trail is one of the oldest hiking trails in the world. The trail was first proposed in 1921, and it was completed in 1937. It has been enjoyed by hikers from all over the world ever since.
Most Visited Trail
The Appalachian Trail is the most popular hiking trail in the world. More than 2 million people hike a portion of the trail every year.
Diversity
There are so many great hiking trails in the United States, but none can match the diversity of landscapes on the Appalachian Trail. There are six national parks and eight national forests along the trail, as well as six state parks and over 200 miles of city park land.
To Experience Nature at its Best
The Appalachian Trail winds its way through some of the most pristine and picturesque landscapes in America.
The Trail is a great place to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life. It provides hikers with plenty of opportunities to see wildlife, admire stunning mountain views, and enjoy the peace and quiet of the forest. Hiking the Appalachian Trail is a great way to reconnect with nature and escape the stress of everyday life.
To Get in Shape
The Appalachian Trail is a great way to get in shape. It’s a challenging hike that will help you lose weight, get stronger, and improve your cardiovascular health. It takes hard work to hike all 2180 miles, but by pushing yourself on the trail you’ll get in shape.
To See History
The Appalachian Trail runs through 14 states, each with a rich history of exploration and industry. You can learn about the trail’s history at many museums along the way. You can see how people lived in colonial times as you hike through small towns.
Not only do you get to see a wide variety of landscapes, but also historic landmarks like mansions and churches. You can even see how much the landscape has changed in just a few hundred years.
To Meet New People
A thru-hike is an intense experience that brings people together in ways that are unique to the trail. Hikers share food, shelter, and experiences on the trail, forming lifelong friendships.
To Find Yourself
A thru-hike will help you learn more about yourself and your own capabilities. You’ll push yourself in ways that you never thought possible, and the experience will change you forever.
To Learn More About the Country
The Appalachian Trail passes through 14 states, including New York, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland, Tennessee, North Carolina, and Georgia. Each state has its own unique culture and history to explore.
You’ll also get to see many different ecosystems, including the rocky mountains of New Hampshire and Maine, the deep forests of Pennsylvania and Virginia, the rolling hills of West Virginia, and the Appalachian Mountains in Georgia.
To Gain Perspective
A thru-hike will help you realize how much time we waste on things that don’t matter. There’s no Internet on the trail! Instead of constantly refreshing your Facebook or Twitter feed for hours at a time, you’ll be out in the woods getting your mind right.
It’s really quite simple: there is nothing better than being outside and hiking for hours on end to clear your head and gain perspective. Being out on the trail gives you a chance to get away from the stress of day-to-day life, even if it’s just for a few days. There’s no doubt that it’ll help you realize how important it is to appreciate what you have now rather than always wanting more.
It’s All About the Journey, Not the Destination
As you hike along mile after mile of trail, day after day, your mind will begin to wander from time to time. You’ll think about what you’re going to do when you get home, where you’re going to eat dinner that night, or if it will rain tomorrow.
You’ll begin to feel like you’re not making any progress and that the hike is taking forever. It’s all a lie, of course. You are making progress, and every step you take brings you one step closer to your destination. If you focus on the journey instead of the destination, it will make the journey much more enjoyable and fulfilling in the end.
Tips for Hiking the Appalachian Trail
Start early in the morning. The early bird gets the worm.
Stop for lunch at around 11:30 am and rest a little bit before continuing your hike. If you want to take a nap, that’s ok too! Just make sure you wake up before it gets dark outside (about 4 pm).
Have dinner around 5 pm and then continue hiking until 8 or 9 pm. Then find a nice place to set up camp and go to sleep.
Set your alarm for 4 am and get up before it gets light outside. Eat breakfast, then hike until around 11 am.
Take a nap and have lunch at around 1 pm. Then continue hiking until 5 or 6 pm, find a nice place to set up camp, and go to sleep.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a new and challenging adventure to embark on this year, hiking the AT should be at the top of your list. It offers something for everyone, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hiker.
With 12 great reasons to hike the Appalachian Trail, we hope you’ll choose to hike this iconic trail before the end of the year – it’s sure to be an unforgettable experience!
And if you need some help getting started, be sure to check out our guide on what size pack for Appalachian Trail.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do people hike the Appalachian Trail?
There are a number of reasons why people hike the Appalachian Trail. For some, it is a challenge to test their physical and mental endurance. For others, it is a way to connect with nature and experience the beauty of the outdoors. And for some, it is a chance to meet new people and make lifelong friends.
No matter what the reason, hiking the Appalachian Trail is an experience that can change your life. If you are thinking about embarking on this journey, we encourage you to do some research and speak with others who have completed the hike. This will help you better prepare for the challenges you will face and the rewards you will reap.
What is an interesting fact to you about the Appalachian Trail?
An interesting fact about the Appalachian Trail is that it is the longest hiking-only trail in the world. The trail stretches for over 2,000 miles from Georgia to Maine and passes through 14 states. Every year, thousands of people attempt to hike the entire trail in one continuous journey.
How much does it cost to hike the Appalachian Trail?
The most important factor in determining the cost of your hike will be the length of time it takes you to complete the trail. The average hiker takes about five to seven months to hike the entire trail. If you plan to take a shorter or longer amount of time, your costs will adjust accordingly.
Other factors that can affect the cost of your hike include the time of year you hike, the equipment you need, and the food and lodging you’ll need along the way.
Is it easy to get lost on the Appalachian Trail?
Despite its popularity, the Appalachian Trail is relatively safe and well-marked. In addition to being well-marked, the trail is also well-traveled, so if you do get lost, it’s likely that someone will come along and help you find your way. However, there are some risks associated with hiking the trail, and it’s important to be prepared before you set out.
Can a beginner hike the Appalachian Trail?
The Appalachian Trail is not an easy hike. It requires months of preparation and training to complete.
So, can a beginner hike the Appalachian Trail? While it is possible, it is not recommended for anyone who is not experienced in long-distance hiking. If you are a beginner looking to hike the Appalachian Trail, it is best to speak with an experienced hiker or hiking guide to getting started.
Is it safe to hike the Appalachian Trail alone?
The safety of hiking the Appalachian Trail alone depends on a variety of factors, including your experience level, the time of year, the weather conditions, and more.
That being said, there are some general safety tips that all hikers should follow when hiking the Appalachian Trail alone.
First and foremost, it is important to be prepared before setting out on your hike. Make sure you have a good map of the trail and are familiar with the route you will be taking. It is also a good idea to let someone know your plans before you hike so that they can check in on you periodically.
Do you need to train to hike the Appalachian Trail?
There is no right or wrong answer to this question, as everyone is different. Some people may be able to hike the trail with no training, while others may need to train for months or even years before attempting the hike. There is no shame in either case – it is simply a matter of each person’s individual abilities.
If you are thinking about hiking the Appalachian Trail, the best thing to do is to start preparing as early as possible. Begin by gradually increasing your hike distances and durations, as well as your overall fitness level. If you have any health conditions, make sure to get clearance from your doctor before embarking on such a strenuous journey.
Additionally, be sure to educate yourself on proper trail safety and Leave No Trace principles, so that you can protect yourself and the environment while enjoying the hike.
Why do most people quit the Appalachian Trail?
The most common reason is because they are unprepared for the rigors of the hike. People who attempt to hike the trail typically underestimate the difficulty of the hike and are not prepared for the physical and mental challenges that come with it.
Hiking the Appalachian Trail is not for the faint of heart – it requires a significant amount of preparation and planning.
