Ever heard of the A.T. or the Appalachian Trail? It’s a famous 2,200-mile-long hiking path in the Eastern U.S, from Springer Mountain in Georgia to Mount Katahdin in Maine. It spans 14 states and offers awesome sights and experiences for nature lovers.
The question is, when did the Appalachian Trail come about? Well, it was proposed back in 1921 with the aim of creating a seamless hiking path through the Appalachian Mountains. Though it took several years and lots of hard work, the trail was fully opened in 1937. Since then, upgrades and tweaks continue to make the trail better for hikers.
By 1968, the Appalachian Trail was elevated to the Appalachian National Scenic Trail under the National Trails System Act. This title acknowledges its importance and ensures its protection for future generations. Now, it’s cared for by the National Park Service, the United States Forest Service, and the Appalachian Trail Conservancy, a nonprofit organization.
It’s no small task to maintain this trail. It takes teamwork from 31 trail clubs and various partners. Tirelessly, these groups ensure the trail stays in prime shape for safe trekking across varying landscapes. Although most of the trail lies within forests and wildernesses, it also crosses towns, roads, and farmlands, offering a mix of natural views and cultural encounters.
Each year, tons of folks head out for treks on the Appalachian Trail. It draws more than three million folks, who walk bits of the trail year by year. Some tough cookies even tackle thru-hiking, journeying the whole trail within a year. From 2010, the amount of full-hikers has climbed, boasting 715 north-bound and 133 south-bound hikers in 2017.
Outdoor lovers hold the Appalachian Trail dear. It’s spawned many books, documentaries, and sites telling its tales. It also shares a spot with the Continental Divide Trail and the Pacific Crest Trail on the ‘Triple Crown of Hiking’ in America.
Beyond the endpoints, the Appalachian Trail has added pathways. The International Appalachian Trail stretches North into our neighbor Canada and further. The Eastern Continental Trail branches South into the Southern States, reaching Alabama and Florida.
Building the Appalachian Trail sings praises to drive, will, and teamwork. It’s grown popular with hikers globally, offering a unique chance to blend with nature and glimpse the Eastern Americas’ beauty.
So, planning a few hours stroll, a limited trail, or a full hike? The Appalachian Trail is there, promising an unbeatable travel through spectacular American sceneries. Put on your boots, stuff your knapsack, and stand ready to discover the Appalachian Trail’s wonders.
