The first time Tara Dower set out to thru-hike the Appalachian Trail, in 2017, she had a panic attack. She felt alone and overwhelmed just eight days after setting off from the trail’s southern ...

World War II veteran Earl Shaffer was the first person to complete hiking the Appalachian Trail. When Shaffer began his journey at Mount Oglethorpe in Georgia, he intended it as a self-care retreat ...

The Appalachian Trail spans 2,194 miles across 14 states along the East Coast of the U.S. Most experienced hikers begin their trek at Springer Mountain, Georgia, and end it on Mount Katahdin in Maine ...

Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. Wendy Altschuler is a seasoned travel and adventure writer and author. Pacific Crest Trail, John Muir Trail, Continental Divide ...

The number of hikers who have registered plans to attempt the Appalachian Trail in 2025 is down nearly 30% compared with last ...

Ever thought about hiking the longest, hiking-only footpath in the world? It’s right here in the U.S., passing through the eastern Appalachian Mountains. The elevation gain of the Appalachian Trail ...

In American slang, “take a hike” is often used to tell someone to go away. But as the Appalachian Trail Conservancy celebrates its 100th anniversary, the organization is working to reframe the phrase ...

A trail sign marks the Appalachian Trail route in Maine's Caribou Valley. “Do you want a beer, Moses?” I asked, as we sat by the campfire on a chilly, Maine evening. He accepted and I handed him a ...

One of the greatest natural treasures in the United States is the Appalachian Trail, or as outdoor enthusiasts call it, “the A.T.” Located in the Eastern region of the U.S., it is also known as the ...