The Appalachian Trail is one of the best and most visited trails in the United States and the world. Over 3,500 kilometres long and with 80 years of history, this is the longest trail in the world. Considering its history and main features, we have a lot to talk about!
The United States is home to great adventures beyond the trails. If, by any chance, you're more into Road Trips, check out our post with "tips for making an unforgettable Road Trip in the USA".
In this publication, we have separated the main information about the Appalachian Trail and other itineraries for those who love ecotourism. With tips, characteristics and indications of three of the best trails in the United States. Also, see more about the famous movie A Walk in the Woods, responsible for inspiring many trails around the world.
The famous Appalachian Trail
The long Appalanchian Trail runs through 14 different US states and welcomes an average of three million long-distance trail-loving tourists each year. The Appalachian Trail Conservancy, a non-governmental institution, is responsible for protecting and preserving the entire area and holds all the key information about the trail.
More than the organisation itself, volunteers and tourists also look after the area, either collecting waste or retouching the trail signs.
Few people have the aptitude to walk the entire length, as the trail takes between five and seven months and starts in the south-east of the United States, more precisely in Georgia, and ends in the far north-east, in the state of Maine. On average, people hike 25km a day and only 25% of hikers manage to cover the entire length.
We can subdivide the trail into four sections: the Southern Mountains, New England, Virginia Mountains and the Mid-Atlantic Lowlands. Most trekkers use the northern route - Georgia to Maine - starting in March/April and finishing in September. The most suitable seasons for hiking are spring, summer and fall, from March to November.
If you're travelling in winter, remember to pack clothes specifically for snow. See our publication with tips on what to bring in your winter suitcase, so you don't forget anything!
The route south is considered the most difficult and only a thousand people a year manage to complete this hike. Virginia is the state with the largest part of the Appalachian Trail, while West Virginia, the smallest.
History of the Appalachian Trail
The history of the Appalachian Trail (A.T.) began in the 1920s, when the former guard and journalist, Benton MacKaye, proposed that the Appalachian Trail be a natural refuge for connecting with nature. In the following decade, the trail was already prepared to receive visitors from all over the world, but it only became official in 68.
The Appalachian Trail is full of natural beauty and exuberant landscapes. Home to a wide diversity of animals and vegetation. For those who intend to walk the length, one must be aware in what can be found in the region. Black bears and poisonous snakes are some of the animals present on the Appalachian Trail.
A Walk in the Woods - The film
"A Walk in the Woods" is a 2015 film classic directed by Ken Kwapis. The film tells the story of Bill who, upon returning to the US already in his old age, gets together with his acquaintance Stephen Katz and embarks on natural adventures, among them, a hike on the Appalachian Trail.
The work is responsible for inspiring adventurers who love hiking. The film was based on the book Walk in the Woods. During the protagonist's walk, he gets annoyed with the signs in the region, but, as soon as he researches further, Bill becomes even more interested in the Appalachian Trail and continues on his adventure.
This happens to most people who learn of the existence of the great A.T.
The best trails in the USA
The Appalachian Trail, despite its importance in the tourism scene, is only part of what can be done on the East Coast of the United States. You can even find more tips in our publication with tips for enjoying the East Coast of the USA!
Below, we've selected three more trail itineraries across the United States that are just as good as the Appalachian Trail:
The Superior Hiking Trail
The Superior Hiking Trail is one of the best known hiking trails in the United States - Minnesota to be precise - and Canada. It is a 500-kilometre hike , rich in beautiful landscapes and extraordinary views. For those passing through the region, The Superior Hiking Trail is one of the main attractions for trail lovers.
Franconia Ridge Traverse
The Franconia Ridge Traverse is the most challenging and steepest trail in the White Mountains region. Its length is on average 14 kilometres long which, for those observing from the outside, believes to be an easy adventure. But it is far from being. The peaks reach 4,000 feet in height, requiring adventurers to be in great shape.
Angels Landing Trail
For those with a fear of heights, the Angels Langing trail should not be considered. The breathtaking view from the highest point of the hike is the goal that everyone seeks when venturing out on this adventure. The hike is estimated to take between three and six hours, which is definitely not for everyone.
Are you ready for this adventure?
The Appalachian Trail is the best known trail in the world and not for nothing. At 3,500 kilometres long and home to incredible natural diversity, this is a trail not to be missed by adventurous lovers.
Don't forget to check our blog with tips and information about the world of travel. Continue reading checking the text How to prepare a trip abroad safely and practically.
