Home Hikers Sights Links Journal Gear MailDrops

The Appalachian Trail (AT) is a 2177 mile footpath that stretches from Springer Mountain Georgia to Katahdin Maine. The entire length of the trail is marked with 2"x6" white blazes that act as a hiker's guide throughout their hike.

Many interesting locations are scattered along the Appalachian Trail. The highest point on the AT is located on top of Clingmans Dome, in the Smokey Mountains of North Carolina. Its height is 6643 ft. above sea level. The lowest point on the trail is located at a trailside museum and zoo. It is only 124 feet above sea level, and is in the State of New York. Mount Washington, located in New Hampshire is home to the worst weather ever recorded on earth. The AT goes right over top of Mount Washington. On April 12, 1934 the wind speed was recorded at 231 mph. Damascus, VA is a very popular town located on the AT. It is known as 'the friendliest town on the trail'. Each year it hosts a hikers gathering known as Trail Days. Hikers can get together and discuss some of their adventures on the trail, and enjoy great food at all you can eat (AYCE) restaurants. Many gear representatives also host booths where hikers can give input about their particular gear. They sometimes also offer free gear repair and advice about their products.

The trail can be hiked many different ways. Amanda and I have chosen to hike the trail northbound (NOBOs). We will start March 26th, 2001 on Springer Mountain, Georgia and go through 14 states before reaching Katahdin, the northern terminus. Approximately 2000 people attempt to hike the AT every year, with only 10% or less succeeding. They say it takes over 5 million steps to walk from Springer Mountain Georgia to Katahdin Maine. Those who complete the whole trail from end to end are called thru-hikers. Hopefully, in September of 2001 we will be considered thru-hikers.