Trail Overview
The Appalachian Trail is a 2,190-mile footpath stretching from Springer Mountain in Georgia all the way to Mount Katahdin in Maine. It passes through 14 states and crosses some of the most beautiful mountain terrain on the East Coast. The trail was completed in 1937, making it one of the first long-distance hiking trails in the world. Today, it’s maintained by volunteers and protected as part of the National Park Service.
- Total Length: 2,190 miles
- States Crossed: 14 (Georgia, North Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine)
- Highest Point: Clingmans Dome, Tennessee (6,643 feet)
- Lowest Point: Bear Mountain State Park, New York (124 feet)
- Annual Thru-Hike Attempts: ~3,000 people
- Successful Thru-Hikes: About 25% of those who attempt
- Average Thru-Hike Duration: 5-7 months
- Trail Maintainers: Over 6,000 volunteers
Who Hikes the Trail?
Every year, thousands of people attempt to thru-hike the entire trail in one continuous journey, usually taking 5 to 7 months to complete. But you don’t have to hike the whole thing to enjoy it. Section hikers tackle smaller portions over weekends, vacations, or across several years. Day hikers also use the trail for shorter adventures close to home. No matter how you approach it, the AT offers something for everyone.
Trail Culture and Community
The trail isn’t just about the physical challenge. It passes through small mountain towns where hikers can resupply, rest, and connect with locals who’ve been supporting AT hikers for decades. You’ll find historic shelters, stunning overlooks, and a community of fellow hikers who share the same goal of putting one foot in front of the other. Trail culture is welcoming and supportive, with hikers often helping each other out and sharing tips along the way.
What to Expect
Weather and terrain vary dramatically depending on where you are and when you’re hiking. Georgia and North Carolina feature steep climbs and humid summers, while New England brings rocky terrain and the potential for harsh weather even in summer months. The mid-Atlantic states offer gentler terrain but can get extremely hot and buggy. Understanding these differences helps you plan which sections to tackle and when. Whether you’re dreaming of a thru-hike or just curious about what the trail has to offer, the Appalachian Trail represents an incredible opportunity to challenge yourself, disconnect from everyday life, and experience nature in a way that few other adventures can match. It’s more than just a hiking trail. It’s a journey that changes people.
