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The Thrill of Appalachian Trail
by Abel Wanderner
http://www.hikingadventure.com
Appalachian Trail is one of the most favored destinations
for hikers from world over. It has been estimated that more
than four million hikers visit Appalachian Trail every
year. Appalachian Trail covers around 2,160 miles and runs
through 14 American states and provides great opportunity
to hikers at the East Coast. The entire trail is apparently
large, running from Katahdin Mountain in Maine to Springer
Mountain in Georgia. With such a large distance to trek,
only 10 percent of trekkers are able to complete the trail.
However, Appalachian Trail undoubtedly remains one of the
most exciting and challenging for hiking aficionados.
Another reason that attracts hikers to it is its location.
It is close to many major cities on the East Coast. It is
easy to get there and spend the entire summer or just a
weekend. Moreover, almost all the land is public property
so you don't have to seek permission or pay fees. However,
you will need to get registered and pay a fee for overnight
stay in many places. Shelters are available along the trail
at comfortable distances. The small towns that come on the
way also offer accommodation to hikers. It is advisable to
engage a guide who will show you the trail marks and places
to rest.
You should not fear about getting lost in the trail, as you
will be finding white rectangles on you trail. These
rectangles can be seen painted on trees, fence posts,
buildings, etc. When you go on to hike Appalachian Trail,
plan your hiking schedule carefully. If you wish to go for
a day then figure out when will you have to start your
return hike. If you wish to stay overnight then also make
you calculations right. Do not forget to carry the right
amount of food with you. Carry nutritious food, food rich
in protein, health drinks and water. If you plan to stay
overnight, decide beforehand where you would like to set
the camp. This is important, as the buildings are a fair
distance apart on the trail. Also check out if you need to
register yourself or make payments beforehand. Contact your
friends or colleagues who may have gone hiking before.
If you plan to cover the full trail then you need to take
care of certain things. It will have to be a great effort,
as in patches you will also be required to climb rather
than trail. Appalachian Trail Conference can tell you great
deal about the challenges that lie on the trail so do
contact it. There are also other organizations that can
help you in this. The best way, however, will be to contact
people who have covered the complete trail before. You can
interact with such hikers on the Internet. They can provide
you useful tips and also warn you about unfavorable
factors. You have to be well informed if you want to give
yourself a chance of completing the trail. Since the trail
is very long, plan your schedules in days. Have many small
targets for each day. Remember to be practical and not
overambitious while planning. An injury or illness on the
trail will certainly hamper your chance of completing the
trail. It will be better if you ask someone to accompany
you on the trail. Hiking all alone will not be that great
an idea.
Let someone know before you set out on trail and tell him
when to expect you back. At last, you are responsible for
your safety. If you are planning to hike in summers, carry
lots of water with you. So, get set and enjoy the thrill
and beauty of the Appalachian Trail.
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