The Appalachian National Scenic Trail is 2175 miles long and follows the ridges and valleys of the Appalachian Mountains. The AT, as its known, passes through 14 states from Katahdin in Maine to Springer Mountain in Georgia. The Trail is popular with seasoned hikers planning a long trip, or day and weekend walkers.
It passes through six national parks, eight national forests, and a great variety of landscapes. This 'wildlife corridor' provides habitats for 2000 rare or endangered plant and animal species. The terrain varies in degrees of difficulty from flat land to rocky ridges requiring scrambling and the differences in elevation range from 124ft to 6,625ft. The trail is well-marked with 165,000 blazes along the route
Using the Trail is free, and there are no membership fees, however as it cuts through national parks and other protected areas a permit is required for some sections. There are also different regulations regarding hunting and walking with your dog (should be on a leash). Camping and having a camp fire is permitted in designated camping areas and shelters.
The Trail was opened in 1937 and was designated the first National Scenic Trail in 1968. The volunteer Appalachian Trail Conservancy work to protect the environment and maintain the Trail. They also provide useful information on planning routes, health and safety, access to the trail using public transport and weather conditions. The visitor center at Harpers Ferry, West Virginia has an information center (where you can get your Passport to the Parks rubber-stamped) and the 'Ultimate AT' Store selling maps, guidebooks and equipment for your trip.
