Appalachian National Scenic Trail
One of the world’s most famous hiking trails is the Appalachian
Trail —affectionately known as the AT. The AT
begins in Georgia and runs 2,160 miles north to Maine.
It travels through 14 states, crossing 8 national forest,
6 national parks and more than 75 public land areas. It
is the nation’s first National Scenic Trail and is overseen
by the National Park  Service.
The AT has trails that range from easy to difficult and excite beginning and seasoned hikers alike. Over 4,000 people have hiked the entire trail with thousands more attempting the trail. As you hike the trails you may see white tailed deer, Shrews, deer mice, and skunks and should be on the lookout for poisonous snakes like copperheads and the timber rattlesnake. Campers are welcomed, but you are encouraged to use a “minimum impact” philosophy and pack out all trash, dig latrines, and camp away from the water sources.
Suggested day hikes are the Roan
Mountain and Big Bald. Please note that when hiking
Big Bald, or any other parts of the AT, that vehicles and
bicycles are illegal on all off road sections. Permits are
need for day hikes, but some parks require permits for camping
overnight.
For hiking tips and news consult our hiking blog. For AT maps and trail guidebooks, call ATC at (304) 535-6331
or www.appalachiantrail.org
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