100 Tips for Hiking The AT

Top 100 Tips for Hiking the Appalachian Trail

Hiking the Appalachian Trail (AT) is a challenging and rewarding experience, whether you’re tackling it as a thru-hiker, section hiker, or even just enjoying a day hike. The AT stretches over 2,190 miles and spans 14 states, offering a variety of terrains, weather conditions, and experiences. To make your hike more enjoyable and successful, we’ve compiled 100 helpful tips covering everything from preparation to safety to trail etiquette.

Preparation & Planning-10

  1. Start Early: Begin your planning months in advance to ensure proper preparation for gear, permits, and logistics.
  2. Research the Trail: Understand the geography, history, and terrain of the AT for better preparedness.
  3. Choose Your Route: If you’re section hiking, plan out which sections you’ll complete and in what order.
  4. Check Trail Conditions: Review trail reports and weather conditions before setting out.
  5. Set Realistic Goals: Whether it’s miles per day or overall trail objectives, set achievable goals.
  6. Know the Best Time to Hike: Spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) are the best times for most hikers.
  7. Determine Your Hiking Style: Consider your fitness level, pace, and daily mileage to determine your hiking style.
  8. Get in Shape: Physical fitness is essential for handling steep climbs and long distances.
  9. Practice with Gear: Do test hikes with your gear to ensure everything is comfortable and functional.
  10. Know Your Resupply Points: Plan resupply stops and have backup options in case something goes wrong.

Gear & Packing-10

  1. Lighten Your Load: Minimize the weight of your pack by choosing lightweight gear and avoiding unnecessary items.
  2. Quality Backpack: Invest in a comfortable, well-fitting backpack with good support.
  3. Invest in Hiking Boots: Choose sturdy, waterproof boots that fit properly to avoid blisters.
  4. Break in Your Boots: Wear your hiking boots before your trip to avoid discomfort.
  5. Essential Clothing Layers: Use moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers, and waterproof outer layers.
  6. Pack a Rain Jacket: Weather can change quickly on the AT, so always carry a waterproof jacket.
  7. Pack a Sleeping Bag: Choose one that’s rated for the season’s temperatures.
  8. Consider a Tent or Shelter: Whether tent camping or using AT shelters, know where you’ll sleep each night.
  9. Lightweight Stove & Cooking Gear: If you plan to cook, use a lightweight stove and compact cookware.
  10. Pack Trail Food: Choose high-energy, easy-to-carry foods like trail mix, energy bars, and dehydrated meals.

Navigation & Mapping-8

  1. Get an AT Map: Always carry a detailed map of the Appalachian Trail and your specific section.
  2. Use a Compass: Learn how to use a compass and map together for navigation.
  3. Download Apps: Utilize navigation apps for offline maps and GPS tracking (e.g., Gaia GPS, Guthook).
  4. Know Your Mile Markers: Keep track of your progress by knowing the mile markers along your section.
  5. Follow Trail Blazes: The AT is marked with white blazes. Always follow these to stay on the correct path.
  6. Carry a Guidebook: AT guidebooks can offer helpful insights and information on towns, resupply points, and terrain.
  7. Carry a Power Bank: Charge devices like your phone or GPS using a portable power bank.
  8. Avoid Shortcutting: Stick to the marked trail instead of creating new paths, which can erode the environment.

Safety-12

  1. Tell Someone Your Plans: Always let a friend or family member know your itinerary and expected return date.
  2. Carry First Aid Supplies: Pack basic first aid items like bandages, antiseptic, and pain relievers.
  3. Learn Basic First Aid: Take a first aid class to be prepared for emergencies.
  4. Have an Emergency Kit: Include items like a whistle, emergency blanket, firestarter, and multitool.
  5. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Carry a filter or purification system.
  6. Avoid Risky Weather: Pay attention to weather forecasts and avoid hiking in dangerous conditions like storms or extreme cold.
  7. Beware of Bears: Follow proper bear safety protocols, including storing food in bear-resistant canisters.
  8. Watch for Poison Ivy: Learn to identify poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac.
  9. Know How to Deal with Ticks: Use tick repellent, wear long sleeves, and check for ticks regularly.
  10. Check for Lyme Disease: If bitten by a tick, monitor for symptoms like a bullseye rash or flu-like symptoms.
  11. Understand Heat Exhaustion: Be aware of signs of dehydration or heatstroke, especially during summer months.
  12. Know How to Cross Streams Safely: Use caution when crossing streams, and always test the depth and strength of the current.

Trail Etiquette-10

  1. Hike Quietly: Keep noise levels to a minimum to respect wildlife and fellow hikers.
  2. Yield to Others: When hiking, always yield to those going uphill or faster.
  3. Leave No Trace: Practice Leave No Trace principles, including packing out all trash and avoiding trail damage.
  4. Camp at Designated Sites: Use established campsites or shelters to minimize environmental impact.
  5. Share the Trail: Be courteous to other users of the trail, including hikers, bikers, and horseback riders.
  6. Stay on the Trail: Avoid making shortcuts or stepping off the trail to protect surrounding vegetation.
  7. Clean Up After Pets: If you’re hiking with pets, always clean up after them and ensure they are under control.
  8. Respect Shelters: Be mindful of shelter space and keep it clean for others.
  9. Help Fellow Hikers: Offer assistance if another hiker is in need, whether it’s providing water, food, or support.
  10. Ask Before Taking Photos: Respect others’ privacy and ask before taking photos of fellow hikers.

Physical & Mental Endurance-10

  1. Pace Yourself: Start slow and gradually increase your mileage to avoid overexertion.
  2. Take Frequent Breaks: Rest regularly to give your body time to recover.
  3. Strengthen Your Core: Core strength can help improve posture and reduce fatigue during long days of hiking.
  4. Manage Blisters: Keep your feet dry, use blister prevention pads, and address blisters immediately if they appear.
  5. Stretch Daily: Stretching after a hike can help prevent tight muscles and injuries.
  6. Keep a Positive Attitude: Hiking the AT can be tough, but maintaining a positive mindset can help you push through difficult days.
  7. Stay Motivated: Break the journey into smaller goals, like reaching the next shelter or mile marker.
  8. Enjoy the Journey: While completing the AT is an accomplishment, don’t forget to enjoy the incredible natural beauty along the way.
  9. Be Kind to Yourself: Don’t be too hard on yourself if you need to take a break or miss a goal. Everyone hikes at their own pace.
  10. Meditate or Reflect: Take time to reflect, meditate, or write in a journal for mental clarity and peace.

Resupply & Towns-5

  1. Plan Your Resupplies: Map out towns where you can resupply food, gear, and rest.
  2. Carry Extra Snacks: Always have extra snacks in case your resupply points are delayed or unavailable.
  3. Use Hostels: Many hostels along the AT cater specifically to hikers, offering a place to rest and resupply.
  4. Plan for Zero Days: Take rest days every so often to recuperate, especially after tough sections.
  5. Stay Informed About Trail Closures: Check for trail closures or detours due to construction or weather-related conditions.

Weather Considerations-5

  1. Check the Forecast Daily: Weather can change rapidly in the mountains, so always check the forecast before starting your day.
  2. Wear Sun Protection: Use sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun.
  3. Dress in Layers: Layer your clothing to adjust to temperature changes throughout the day.
  4. Carry a Rain Cover: Make sure your gear is protected from rain with a pack cover or rain gear.
  5. Know How to Handle Snow: If hiking in winter conditions, be prepared with proper gear, like microspikes or crampons.

Social & Mental Support-5

  1. Join Online Communities: Engage with online forums and Facebook groups to connect with other hikers.
  2. Encourage Fellow Hikers: Offer encouragement to fellow hikers, especially when they’re feeling down or exhausted.
  3. Have a Trail Name: Many hikers adopt trail names, which can be a fun way to build camaraderie.
  4. Keep a Journal: Document your journey with words, photos, or sketches.
  5. Reach Out for Support: If you’re struggling mentally or physically, don’t hesitate to contact someone for help.

Post-Hike & Legacy-5

  1. Celebrate Small Wins: Each section or milestone you complete is a victory—celebrate your progress.
  2. Track Your Journey: Document your hike, share stories, and inspire future hikers.
  3. Give Back: Volunteer or donate to AT organizations that help maintain the trail.
  4. Reflect on Your Journey: After finishing, take time to reflect on what the trail taught you.
  5. Leave Feedback for the Community: Share your experiences to help others prepare and plan their hike.

Environmental Conservation-5

  1. Use Eco-Friendly Products: Minimize your environmental impact by using eco-friendly toiletries and cleaning products.
  2. Keep Water Sources Clean: Do not pollute streams, lakes, or springs where hikers and wildlife depend on clean water.
  3. Avoid Using Plastic: Reduce plastic waste by using reusable bottles and containers.
  4. Pick Up Litter: Carry out any litter you find, whether it’s yours or someone else’s.
  5. Don’t Disturb Wildlife: Observe animals from a distance without feeding or disturbing them.

Technology & Gadgets-5

  1. Use Solar Panels for Charging: Solar chargers can be handy for keeping devices powered while on the trail.
  2. Carry a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB): In case of emergencies, a PLB can send distress signals to rescue teams.
  3. Use a Hiking Watch: Track your mileage, altitude, and distance with a specialized hiking GPS watch.
  4. Save Offline Maps: Download trail maps and GPS routes in case of poor service.
  5. Use Trekking Poles: Trekking poles can help with balance, reduce strain on your knees, and make hiking easier.

Dealing with Setbacks-4

  1. Adapt to Changes: Be flexible when facing unexpected weather, trail closures, or injuries.
  2. Trust Your Instincts: If something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts and take precautions.
  3. Take Rest When Needed: Don’t push through exhaustion or injury—take time to rest and recover.
  4. Get Back on Track: If you get off trail, use your map and compass to find your way back to the AT.

General Tips-6

  1. Be Patient: The AT is a journey, and progress can sometimes feel slow.
  2. Enjoy the Views: Don’t just focus on hiking—take time to appreciate the beautiful landscapes and vistas along the way.
  3. Learn the Local Flora & Fauna: Take time to learn about the plants, animals, and ecosystems you encounter.
  4. Stay Humble: The AT is challenging, so be humble and learn from other hikers who might have more experience.
  5. Be Respectful of the Trail: The AT is a national treasure—treat it with respect and care.
  6. Have Fun!: Remember, hiking the Appalachian Trail is an adventure—embrace the challenge and enjoy the journey.

    By following these 100 tips, you’ll be better prepared for a successful and memorable hike on the Appalachian Trail. Whether you’re hiking a section or aiming to complete the entire trail, taking the time to plan, stay safe, and enjoy the beauty of the AT will make for an unforgettable outdoor experience. Happy hiking!