There are 2,200 miles of Appalachian Trail in 14 states

There are 2,200 miles of Appalachian Trail in 14 states, from Georgia’s Springer Mountain to Maine’s Mount Katahdin. The journey is soul-stirring, but it’s also hard.

Forester and conservationist Benton MacKaye designed the trail to connect people with nature. It was driven by Myron Avery, who embraced MacKaye’s vision.

Appalachian Trail Conservancy has been overseeing the development, maintenance, and securing the land rights and funding for the trail since 1925. Harriman State Park in New York has a section that was completed in 1927. The trail then continued through New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Virginia until it reached Shenandoah National Park.

Shenandoah’s section is a game changer, because it connects two major national parks, Shenandoah and Great Smoky Mountains, so you can hike the Appalachian Mountains continuously. The trail fell into disrepair after World War II because of lack of funding and maintenance.

As hiking and outdoor recreation became more popular, the ATC launched a big fundraising campaign. All over the country, volunteers restore and maintain the trail. With the 1978 designation of the National Scenic Trail, the trail was further protected and additional resources were made available to help it develop.

There are millions of hikers and outdoor enthusiasts who visit the Appalachian Trail every year. Over the past few years, it’s gained a lot of popularity, so the infrastructure and resources are being redesigned to stay sustainable. As part of their ongoing commitment to maintaining and developing the trail, the ATC works with government agencies, volunteers, and local communities to make sure it’s a safe and rejuvenating place.

Appalachian Trail inspires millions of people around the world to explore their own paths of self-discovery and connect to nature. Take a journey that will push you to your limits and beyond; it’ll be an adventure you’ll never forget.