Hiking the Appalachian Trail can be a wonderful, exhilarating experience. There are few places in the northeastern portion of the United States that can compare to the vistas you’ll take in along this trail. But it is important that you are prepared for more than an aesthetic experience, as taking on a journey of such magnitude will require an understanding of and a desire to be immersed in the outdoors. For maximum enjoyment and minimum discomfort, follow these Appalachian Trail tips.
1. Train Beforehand
In order to effectively train for hiking the Appalachian Trail, replicating the experience is a good idea. A sturdy and supportive pair of hiking boots are a must before getting started. Start walking on flat ground with the same type of pack that will be used on the actual hike. Every couple of days add in an additional element to the training such as more weight in the backpack, more rugged hiking terrain or a longer hike.
2. Know the Flora
Knowing what types of plants and animals are likely to be present when hiking on the Appalachian Trail can make the experience a great deal smoother. Poison ivy, poison oak and sumac can cause misery if direct contact with skin is made. It is important to know what these plants look like so it is easier to avoid them.
3. Look For Wildlife
Many people enjoy hiking the Appalachian Trail so they can experience the wildlife in its own element. Most wildlife travels early in the morning and later in the evening toward dusk. Be aware of which animals are known to inhabit the vicinity, and take care to stay on the trail, so that wild habitat is not accidentally damaged.
4. Aim For Comfort
In most cases, it is best to go hiking the Appalachian Trail with people who pace themselves similarly. This helps eliminate other hikers from needing to wait on slower individuals or try to keep up a pace they are not comfortable with. Knowing where shelters and food restocking stations are will ensure that the basics of food and shelter can be met even if a storm brews or rations unexpectedly run out.
Now that we’ve been over some Appalachian Trail tips, check out: A Historic Look at the Appalachian Trail!
Featured Image from John Verrone/Unsplash
