9. Backpacking and hiking
(O’Bannon, Allen. Allen and Mike’s Really Cool Backpackin’ Book; Traveling & Camping Skills for a
Wilderness Environment)
(Appalachian Trail Conservancy)
(purebound.com)
(purebound.com)
10. Backpacking and hiking
What is Backpacking?
(O’Bannon, Allen. Allen and Mike’s Really Cool Backpackin’ Book; Traveling & Camping Skills for a
Wilderness Environment)
(Appalachian Trail Conservancy)
(purebound.com)
(purebound.com)
11. Backpacking and hiking
What is Backpacking?
Backpacking vs Hiking
(O’Bannon, Allen. Allen and Mike’s Really Cool Backpackin’ Book; Traveling & Camping Skills for a
Wilderness Environment)
(Appalachian Trail Conservancy)
(purebound.com)
(purebound.com)
12. Backpacking and hiking
What is Backpacking?
Backpacking vs Hiking
(O’Bannon, Allen. Allen and Mike’s Really Cool Backpackin’ Book; Traveling & Camping Skills for a
Wilderness Environment)
(Appalachian Trail Conservancy)
(purebound.com)
(purebound.com)
13. Backpacking and hiking
What is Backpacking?
Backpacking vs Hiking
Why Do People Do It?
(O’Bannon, Allen. Allen and Mike’s Really Cool Backpackin’ Book; Traveling & Camping Skills for a
Wilderness Environment)
(Appalachian Trail Conservancy)
(purebound.com)
(purebound.com)
14. Backpacking and hiking
What is Backpacking?
Backpacking vs Hiking
Why Do People Do It?
It’s allows people to separate
themselves from the rest of the
world
(O’Bannon, Allen. Allen and Mike’s Really Cool Backpackin’ Book; Traveling & Camping Skills for a
Wilderness Environment)
(Appalachian Trail Conservancy)
(purebound.com)
(purebound.com)
15. Backpacking and hiking
What is Backpacking?
Backpacking vs Hiking
Why Do People Do It?
It’s allows people to separate
themselves from the rest of the
world
Nature
(O’Bannon, Allen. Allen and Mike’s Really Cool Backpackin’ Book; Traveling & Camping Skills for a
Wilderness Environment)
(Appalachian Trail Conservancy)
(purebound.com)
(purebound.com)
16. Backpacking and hiking
What is Backpacking?
Backpacking vs Hiking
Why Do People Do It?
It’s allows people to separate
themselves from the rest of the
world
Nature
Going at you’re own pace
(O’Bannon, Allen. Allen and Mike’s Really Cool Backpackin’ Book; Traveling & Camping Skills for a
Wilderness Environment)
(Appalachian Trail Conservancy)
(purebound.com)
(purebound.com)
17. Backpacking and hiking
What is Backpacking?
Backpacking vs Hiking
Why Do People Do It?
It’s allows people to separate
themselves from the rest of the
world
Nature
Going at you’re own pace
The Challenge
(O’Bannon, Allen. Allen and Mike’s Really Cool Backpackin’ Book; Traveling & Camping Skills for a
Wilderness Environment)
(Appalachian Trail Conservancy)
(purebound.com)
(purebound.com)
19. The AT
• About 2,178 miles long (the
nations largest marked
footpath)
• Touches 14 states
(Appalachian Trail Conservancy)
20. The AT
• from Springer
Mountain, Georgia to (thebody.com/content/art12597.html)
Mt. Katahdin, Maine
(purebound.com)
21. The AT
• Harpers Ferry, West
Virginia
• The “half-way point”
• Location of the
Appalachian Trail
Conservancy
(purebound.com)
(channel.nationalgeographic.com/episode/appalachian-
trail-3591/Photos)
22. The At
• The International AT
• Extended into eastern
Canada in the 1990’s
• about 750 miles in
Quebec, New (agiweb.org/geotimes/mar08/article.html?id=geomedia.html)
Brunswick and
Newfoundland
23. HISTORY
• Benton MacKaye
• “convinced that the pace of
urban and industrial life along
the East Coast was harmful to
people.” (AT.org).
• Arthur Perkins and Myron Avery
• Fully completed in 1951
• Earl Shaffer
• first man to hike the entire
Appalachian Trail in one
continuous trip
(Appalachian Trail Conservancy)
(mensjournal.com/original-thru-hiker)
24. Why Hike the AT?
• The Challenge
• The Rough Terrain
• Main and New (mensjournal.com/original-thru-hiker)
Hampshire
• To Get Away
26. Prepping Physically for
the Trail
• Hiking (Practicing)
• Around local parks or the neighborhood
• Also lets you break in your boots and
get to know your pack
• Strengthening leg muscle
• Injuries
• Knee
• Hamstrings
• Back
27. Muscles
Used
(blogs.sun.com/mjsim/resource/
muscle.2.jpg)
28. Muscles
Used
Abdominals
(blogs.sun.com/mjsim/resource/
muscle.2.jpg)
29. Muscles
Used
Abdominals
(blogs.sun.com/mjsim/resource/
muscle.2.jpg)
30. Muscles
Used
Abdominals
(blogs.sun.com/mjsim/resource/
muscle.2.jpg)
31. Muscles
Used
Abdominals
(blogs.sun.com/mjsim/resource/
muscle.2.jpg)
32. Muscles
Used
Abdominals
Dorsal Muscles
(blogs.sun.com/mjsim/resource/
muscle.2.jpg)
33. Muscles
Used
Abdominals
Dorsal Muscles
Lumbar Muscles
(blogs.sun.com/mjsim/resource/
muscle.2.jpg)
58. dehydrated
food
a lightweight WHAT TO PACK
sleeping bag
59. dehydrated
a tent
food
a lightweight WHAT TO PACK
sleeping bag
60. dehydrated
a tent
food
WHAT TO PACK a mess-kit
a lightweight
sleeping bag
61. dehydrated
a tent
food
a few clothing items
WHAT TO PACK a mess-kit
a lightweight
sleeping bag
62. a first-aid kit
dehydrated
a tent
food
a few clothing items
WHAT TO PACK a mess-kit
a lightweight
sleeping bag
63. toothbrush
and a first-aid kit
toothpaste
dehydrated
a tent
food
a few clothing items
WHAT TO PACK a mess-kit
a lightweight
sleeping bag
64. toothbrush
and a first-aid kit
toothpaste
dehydrated
a tent
food
a few clothing items
WHAT TO PACK a mess-kit
a lightweight
sleeping bag
a rain coat
65. toothbrush
and a first-aid kit
toothpaste
dehydrated
a tent
food
a few clothing items
WHAT TO PACK a mess-kit
a lightweight
sleeping bag
a rain coat 2 water bottles
and a bladder
66. toothbrush
and a first-aid kit
toothpaste
dehydrated
a tent
food
a few clothing items
WHAT TO PACK a mess-kit
a lightweight
sleeping bag sandals
a rain coat 2 water bottles
and a bladder
67. toothbrush
and a first-aid kit
toothpaste
dehydrated
a tent
food
a few clothing items
WHAT TO PACK a mess-kit
a lightweight
sleeping bag sandals
extra hiking socks
a rain coat 2 water bottles
and a bladder
68. toothbrush
and a first-aid kit
toothpaste
dehydrated
a tent
food
a few clothing items
toilet paper
WHAT TO PACK a mess-kit
a lightweight
sleeping bag sandals
extra hiking socks
a rain coat 2 water bottles
and a bladder
69. toothbrush
and a first-aid kit
toothpaste
dehydrated
a tent
food
a few clothing items
toilet paper
WHAT TO PACK a mess-kit
a lightweight
sleeping bag sandals
extra hiking socks
a rain coat 2 water bottles
and a bladder
duct tape
70. toothbrush
and a first-aid kit
toothpaste
dehydrated
a tent
food
a few clothing items
toilet paper
WHAT TO PACK a mess-kit
a lightweight
sleeping bag sandals
extra hiking socks
a cell phone
a rain coat 2 water bottles
and a bladder
duct tape
71. toothbrush
and a first-aid kit
toothpaste
dehydrated a small wash cloth a tent
food
toilet paper a few clothing items
WHAT TO PACK a mess-kit
a lightweight
sleeping bag sandals
extra hiking socks
a cell phone
a rain coat 2 water bottles
and a bladder
duct tape
72. toothbrush
and a first-aid kit
toothpaste
dehydrated a small wash cloth a tent
food
toilet paper a few clothing items
WHAT TO PACK a mess-kit
a lightweight
sleeping bag a bandana and hat sandals
extra hiking socks
a cell phone
a rain coat 2 water bottles
and a bladder
duct tape
73. toothbrush
and a first-aid kit
toothpaste
sun screen
dehydrated a small wash cloth a tent
food
toilet paper a few clothing items
WHAT TO PACK a mess-kit
a lightweight
sleeping bag a bandana and hat sandals
extra hiking socks
a cell phone
a rain coat 2 water bottles
and a bladder
duct tape
74. toothbrush
and a first-aid kit
toothpaste
sun screen
dehydrated a small wash cloth a tent
food
toilet paper a few clothing items
WHAT TO PACK a mess-kit
a lightweight
sleeping bag a bandana and hat sandals
extra hiking socks
a cell phone
a rain coat 2 water bottles
bug-spray and a bladder
duct tape
75. toothbrush
and a first-aid kit
toothpaste
sun screen
dehydrated a small wash cloth a tent
food
toilet paper a few clothing items
WHAT TO PACK a mess-kit
a lightweight
sleeping bag a bandana and hat sandals
cards extra hiking socks
a cell phone
a rain coat 2 water bottles
bug-spray and a bladder
duct tape
76. toothbrush
and a first-aid kit
toothpaste
sun screen deodorant
dehydrated a small wash cloth a tent
food
toilet paper a few clothing items
WHAT TO PACK a mess-kit
a lightweight
sleeping bag a bandana and hat sandals
cards extra hiking socks
a cell phone
a rain coat 2 water bottles
bug-spray and a bladder
duct tape
77. toothbrush
comb or hairbrush
and a first-aid kit
toothpaste
sun screen deodorant
dehydrated a small wash cloth a tent
food
toilet paper a few clothing items
WHAT TO PACK a mess-kit
a lightweight
sleeping bag a bandana and hat sandals
cards extra hiking socks
a cell phone
a rain coat 2 water bottles
bug-spray and a bladder
duct tape
78. toothbrush
comb or hairbrush
and a small stove a first-aid kit
toothpaste
sun screen deodorant
dehydrated a small wash cloth a tent
food
toilet paper a few clothing items
WHAT TO PACK a mess-kit
a lightweight
sleeping bag a bandana and hat sandals
cards extra hiking socks
a cell phone
a rain coat 2 water bottles
bug-spray and a bladder
duct tape
79. toothbrush
comb or hairbrush
and a small stove a first-aid kit
toothpaste
sun screen deodorant
dehydrated a small wash cloth a tent
food
toilet paper a few clothing items
WHAT TO PACK a mess-kit
a lightweight
sleeping bag a bandana and hat sandals
cards extra hiking socks
a cell phone
a rain coat 2 water bottles
bug-spray matches and a bladder
duct tape
80. toothbrush
comb or hairbrush
and a small stove a first-aid kit
toothpaste a water purifier
sun screen deodorant
dehydrated a small wash cloth a tent
food
toilet paper a few clothing items
WHAT TO PACK a mess-kit
a lightweight
sleeping bag a bandana and hat sandals
cards extra hiking socks
a cell phone
a rain coat 2 water bottles
bug-spray matches and a bladder
duct tape
81. toothbrush
comb or hairbrush
and a small stove a first-aid kit
toothpaste a water purifier
sun screen deodorant
dehydrated a small wash cloth a tent
food
toilet paper a few clothing items
WHAT TO PACK a mess-kit
a lightweight
sleeping bag a bandana and hat sandals
cards extra hiking socks
a cell phone
a rain coat and one luxury item
2 water bottles
bug-spray matches and a bladder
duct tape
85. How to Pack
• Compress
• Eliminate unnecessary things
86. How to Pack
• Compress
• Eliminate unnecessary things
• Avoid bulging, keep the pack
stream line
87. How to Pack
• Compress
• Eliminate unnecessary things
• Avoid bulging, keep the pack
stream line
• Keep things you’ll need in
easy access, like your map,
water, etc
92. First Aid Kit
campingtourist.com/camping-tips/the-perfect-
first-aid-kit-for-your-camping-trip/
93. First Aid Kit
• Exam gloves
campingtourist.com/camping-tips/the-perfect-
first-aid-kit-for-your-camping-trip/
94. First Aid Kit
• Exam gloves
• CPR face shield
campingtourist.com/camping-tips/the-perfect-
first-aid-kit-for-your-camping-trip/
95. First Aid Kit
• Exam gloves
• CPR face shield
• Bandages: Elastic roll bandage, Adhesive tape, Adhesive
bandages, Gauze pads,
campingtourist.com/camping-tips/the-perfect-
first-aid-kit-for-your-camping-trip/
96. First Aid Kit
• Exam gloves
• CPR face shield
• Bandages: Elastic roll bandage, Adhesive tape, Adhesive
bandages, Gauze pads,
• Moleskin/ Blister kit
campingtourist.com/camping-tips/the-perfect-
first-aid-kit-for-your-camping-trip/
97. First Aid Kit
• Exam gloves
• CPR face shield
• Bandages: Elastic roll bandage, Adhesive tape, Adhesive
bandages, Gauze pads,
• Moleskin/ Blister kit
• Alcohol swabs
campingtourist.com/camping-tips/the-perfect-
first-aid-kit-for-your-camping-trip/
98. First Aid Kit
• Exam gloves
• CPR face shield
• Bandages: Elastic roll bandage, Adhesive tape, Adhesive
bandages, Gauze pads,
• Moleskin/ Blister kit
• Alcohol swabs
• Antiseptic ointment
campingtourist.com/camping-tips/the-perfect-
first-aid-kit-for-your-camping-trip/
99. First Aid Kit
• Exam gloves
• CPR face shield
• Bandages: Elastic roll bandage, Adhesive tape, Adhesive
bandages, Gauze pads,
• Moleskin/ Blister kit
• Alcohol swabs
• Antiseptic ointment
• Scissors
campingtourist.com/camping-tips/the-perfect-
first-aid-kit-for-your-camping-trip/
100. First Aid Kit
• Exam gloves
• CPR face shield
• Bandages: Elastic roll bandage, Adhesive tape, Adhesive
bandages, Gauze pads,
• Moleskin/ Blister kit
• Alcohol swabs
• Antiseptic ointment
• Scissors
• Tweezers, and/or a Tick removal kit
campingtourist.com/camping-tips/the-perfect-
first-aid-kit-for-your-camping-trip/
101. First Aid Kit
• Exam gloves
• CPR face shield
• Bandages: Elastic roll bandage, Adhesive tape, Adhesive
bandages, Gauze pads,
• Moleskin/ Blister kit
• Alcohol swabs
• Antiseptic ointment
• Scissors
• Tweezers, and/or a Tick removal kit
• Ibuprofen (Tylenol etc)
campingtourist.com/camping-tips/the-perfect-
first-aid-kit-for-your-camping-trip/
102. On the Trail
(blueridgeoutdoors.com/departments/great-falls-national-park-va/)
103. On the Trail
(blueridgeoutdoors.com/departments/great-falls-national-park-va/)
104. Some Terms You Might
Want to Know
• Through Hiking/Through-Hiking: n. hike of the
Trail’s entire length in one season
• Section Hiking: The approach to walking the length
of the Trail in segments
• Trail Magic: Random acts of kindness by nonhikers
for through hikers and long distance sectional hikers
107. Courtesies and
Responsibilities
• Leave No Trace
• Staying on Trail
108. Courtesies and
Responsibilities
• Leave No Trace
• Staying on Trail
109. Courtesies and
Responsibilities
• Leave No Trace
• Staying on Trail
• Picking up trash
110. Courtesies and
Responsibilities
• Leave No Trace
• Staying on Trail
• Picking up trash
• Collecting fallen wood for
fire, not chopping it down
111. Courtesies and
Responsibilities
• Leave No Trace
• Staying on Trail
• Picking up trash
• Collecting fallen wood for
fire, not chopping it down
112. Courtesies and
Responsibilities
• Leave No Trace
• Staying on Trail
• Picking up trash
• Collecting fallen wood for
fire, not chopping it down
113. Courtesies and
Responsibilities
• If you’ve gotta go...
• Use a shovel to make a hole at least 6 in.
deep
• Go at least 20-30 feet away from the trail
• Make sure to take your trash with you
• If your going to use leaves make sure you
know what they are
129. Water
• Unfortunately today
we cant drink right out
of the steams anymore
• Bacteria can cause
hikers to become
very sick
(purebound.com)
130. Water
• Unfortunately today
we cant drink right out
of the steams anymore
• Bacteria can cause
hikers to become
very sick
• Sterilizing water
• iodine tablets
• pump (purebound.com)
• boiling
133. Shelters
• General Rules to Shelters
• Keep your food out of reach to
animals, especially if there is a bear
advisory
134. Shelters
• General Rules to Shelters
• Keep your food out of reach to
animals, especially if there is a bear
advisory
• Larger groups should let smaller
groups and through hikers stay in the
trail
135. Shelters
• General Rules to Shelters
• Keep your food out of reach to
animals, especially if there is a bear
advisory
• Larger groups should let smaller
groups and through hikers stay in the
trail
• Keep the site clean and trash free
136. Shelters
• General Rules to Shelters
• Keep your food out of reach to
animals, especially if there is a bear
advisory
• Larger groups should let smaller
groups and through hikers stay in the
trail
• Keep the site clean and trash free
• Towns
137. Shelters
• General Rules to Shelters
• Keep your food out of reach to
animals, especially if there is a bear
advisory
• Larger groups should let smaller
groups and through hikers stay in the
trail
• Keep the site clean and trash free
• Towns
• Restock on food, fresh water
138. Shelters
• General Rules to Shelters
• Keep your food out of reach to
animals, especially if there is a bear
advisory
• Larger groups should let smaller
groups and through hikers stay in the
trail
• Keep the site clean and trash free
• Towns
• Restock on food, fresh water
• Bath and wash clothes
139. Wildlife
• Animals can rip into packs
and tents
• Raccoons, Bears, Deer,
Chipmunks
• Avoid them by hanging
your food or putting it in a
bear container
141. Terrain
• Northern Bolders
• New Hampshire and Vermont
• Rocky
• Pennsylvania
• Flat with Hills
• Through crossing steams
• On intersecting roads and highways
Outline slide of presentation:
An explanation of what backpacking is and what hiking is
An explanation of what the Appalachian Trail is and facts about it
Information of how to prepare for a backpacking trip, particularly an AT trip
Insight into wildlifegeneral courtesies and responsibilities that are expected of hikers on the AT
Why people hike the AT and why it’s unique
An explanation of my application and what happened
After talking about my presentation I will do the class activity
photo: purebound.com
Backpacking is an rigorous form of hiking. Though backpackers are hiking they carry all the equipment they will need with them. Usually backpacking is an extended hike that lasts for at least a day. These backpacks carry the hikers essential equipment like food and water. Backpacking is harder than just the simple hike. These packs can weight 30-70lbs and the additional weight on the hikers legs and back can cause more injuries.
People enjoy hiking for many different reasons. For some it separates them from the rest of the world and really lets them take a look at what else is around them and how beautiful nature can be. Unlike many other physical activities hiking allows people to move at a comfortable pace while still getting exercise. Some of the more extensive hikes like the AT are a form of a challenge (man vs wild); it is both a survival challenge and an endurance challenge of how many miles are hiked and the types terrain encountered.
photo:purebound.com
Backpacking is an rigorous form of hiking. Though backpackers are hiking they carry all the equipment they will need with them. Usually backpacking is an extended hike that lasts for at least a day. These backpacks carry the hikers essential equipment like food and water. Backpacking is harder than just the simple hike. These packs can weight 30-70lbs and the additional weight on the hikers legs and back can cause more injuries.
People enjoy hiking for many different reasons. For some it separates them from the rest of the world and really lets them take a look at what else is around them and how beautiful nature can be. Unlike many other physical activities hiking allows people to move at a comfortable pace while still getting exercise. Some of the more extensive hikes like the AT are a form of a challenge (man vs wild); it is both a survival challenge and an endurance challenge of how many miles are hiked and the types terrain encountered.
photo:purebound.com
Backpacking is an rigorous form of hiking. Though backpackers are hiking they carry all the equipment they will need with them. Usually backpacking is an extended hike that lasts for at least a day. These backpacks carry the hikers essential equipment like food and water. Backpacking is harder than just the simple hike. These packs can weight 30-70lbs and the additional weight on the hikers legs and back can cause more injuries.
People enjoy hiking for many different reasons. For some it separates them from the rest of the world and really lets them take a look at what else is around them and how beautiful nature can be. Unlike many other physical activities hiking allows people to move at a comfortable pace while still getting exercise. Some of the more extensive hikes like the AT are a form of a challenge (man vs wild); it is both a survival challenge and an endurance challenge of how many miles are hiked and the types terrain encountered.
photo:purebound.com
Backpacking is an rigorous form of hiking. Though backpackers are hiking they carry all the equipment they will need with them. Usually backpacking is an extended hike that lasts for at least a day. These backpacks carry the hikers essential equipment like food and water. Backpacking is harder than just the simple hike. These packs can weight 30-70lbs and the additional weight on the hikers legs and back can cause more injuries.
People enjoy hiking for many different reasons. For some it separates them from the rest of the world and really lets them take a look at what else is around them and how beautiful nature can be. Unlike many other physical activities hiking allows people to move at a comfortable pace while still getting exercise. Some of the more extensive hikes like the AT are a form of a challenge (man vs wild); it is both a survival challenge and an endurance challenge of how many miles are hiked and the types terrain encountered.
photo:purebound.com
Backpacking is an rigorous form of hiking. Though backpackers are hiking they carry all the equipment they will need with them. Usually backpacking is an extended hike that lasts for at least a day. These backpacks carry the hikers essential equipment like food and water. Backpacking is harder than just the simple hike. These packs can weight 30-70lbs and the additional weight on the hikers legs and back can cause more injuries.
People enjoy hiking for many different reasons. For some it separates them from the rest of the world and really lets them take a look at what else is around them and how beautiful nature can be. Unlike many other physical activities hiking allows people to move at a comfortable pace while still getting exercise. Some of the more extensive hikes like the AT are a form of a challenge (man vs wild); it is both a survival challenge and an endurance challenge of how many miles are hiked and the types terrain encountered.
photo:purebound.com
Backpacking is an rigorous form of hiking. Though backpackers are hiking they carry all the equipment they will need with them. Usually backpacking is an extended hike that lasts for at least a day. These backpacks carry the hikers essential equipment like food and water. Backpacking is harder than just the simple hike. These packs can weight 30-70lbs and the additional weight on the hikers legs and back can cause more injuries.
People enjoy hiking for many different reasons. For some it separates them from the rest of the world and really lets them take a look at what else is around them and how beautiful nature can be. Unlike many other physical activities hiking allows people to move at a comfortable pace while still getting exercise. Some of the more extensive hikes like the AT are a form of a challenge (man vs wild); it is both a survival challenge and an endurance challenge of how many miles are hiked and the types terrain encountered.
photo:purebound.com
Backpacking is an rigorous form of hiking. Though backpackers are hiking they carry all the equipment they will need with them. Usually backpacking is an extended hike that lasts for at least a day. These backpacks carry the hikers essential equipment like food and water. Backpacking is harder than just the simple hike. These packs can weight 30-70lbs and the additional weight on the hikers legs and back can cause more injuries.
People enjoy hiking for many different reasons. For some it separates them from the rest of the world and really lets them take a look at what else is around them and how beautiful nature can be. Unlike many other physical activities hiking allows people to move at a comfortable pace while still getting exercise. Some of the more extensive hikes like the AT are a form of a challenge (man vs wild); it is both a survival challenge and an endurance challenge of how many miles are hiked and the types terrain encountered.
photo:purebound.com
Backpacking is an rigorous form of hiking. Though backpackers are hiking they carry all the equipment they will need with them. Usually backpacking is an extended hike that lasts for at least a day. These backpacks carry the hikers essential equipment like food and water. Backpacking is harder than just the simple hike. These packs can weight 30-70lbs and the additional weight on the hikers legs and back can cause more injuries.
People enjoy hiking for many different reasons. For some it separates them from the rest of the world and really lets them take a look at what else is around them and how beautiful nature can be. Unlike many other physical activities hiking allows people to move at a comfortable pace while still getting exercise. Some of the more extensive hikes like the AT are a form of a challenge (man vs wild); it is both a survival challenge and an endurance challenge of how many miles are hiked and the types terrain encountered.
photo:purebound.com
Intro slide to backpacking and hiking
What is backpacking?
How is it different from hiking?
Why it’s done
Its challenges
photo: purebound.com
The Appalachian Trail is the nation's longest marked footpath, at approximately 2,178 miles. The path travels from Mt. Katahdin, Maine to Springer Mountain, Georgia; touching 14 states total. Dubbed a privately managed national park the AT crosses six other national park system and eight national forests. The AT is maintained by 30 trail clubs and multiple partnerships; more than 6,000 volunteers contribute about 200,000 hours to the Appalachian Trail every year. (Appalachian Trail Conservancy)
It takes approximately 5 million footsteps to walk the entire length of the Trail. (Appalachian Trail Conservancy)
The general half-way point is at Harpers Ferry, WV. Here the Appalachian Trail Conservancy “preserves and manages of the natural, scenic, historic, and cultural resources associated with the Appalachian National Scenic Trail in order to provide primitive outdoor-recreation and educational opportunities for Trail visitors.” (Appalachian Trail Conservancy)
photo: Appalachian Trail Conservancy
The Appalachian Trail was founded by Benton MacKaye; he was “convinced that the pace of urban and industrial life along the East Coast was harmful to people.” (Appalachian Trail Conservancy). So he envisioned the A.T. as a path interspersed with planned wilderness communities where people could go to renew themselves. (Appalachian Trail Conservancy). That idea never gained much traction, but the notion of a thousand-mile footpath in the mountains fired the imaginations of hikers and outdoorsmen from Maine to Georgia. Inspired by him, they began building trails and trying to connect them. (Appalachian Trail Conservancy)
The trail was completed in 1937. It fell into disrepair during World War II, when Trail maintainers were unable to work on it, and parts of the route were lost. After the war, a concerted effort was made to restore it, and it was once again declared complete in 1951. (Appalachian Trail Conservancy)
Arthur Perkins (an ex-judge) and Myron Avery (lawyer). (Appalachian Trail Conservancy)
Both rekindled the idea of the Trail in 1928 and 1929 by using MacKaye's ideas to recruit volunteers, establishing hiking clubs up and down the coast, and actually going out to hike, clear brush, and mark paths themselves. When Perkins' health failed in the early 1930s, Avery took over, establishing a network of volunteers, developing clubs, working with the government, building the organization of the ATC, and setting the Trail's northern terminus at Katahdin in his native Maine. Avery remained chairman of ATC until 1952. (Appalachian Trail Conservancy)
At first, the goal was to blaze a connected route so that the Trail led along old forest roads and other trails. Trail maintainers mostly just cleared brush and painted blazes. (Appalachian Trail Conservancy). “Today's Trail has mostly been moved off the old roads and onto new paths dug and reinforced especially for hikers. Today's route, though engineered much more elaborately, often requires more climbing, because it leads up the sides of many mountains that the old woods roads bypassed.” (Appalachian Trail Conservancy)
photo: www.mensjournal.com/original-thru-hiker
Since the completion of the trail people have embraced MacKaye’s philosophy and hiked the AT to get away from the hectic of the urban world. (AT VIDEO).
“More than 10,000 people have reported hiking the length of the Trail.”(Appalachian Trail Conservancy)
Through-Hiking: n. hike of the Trail’s entire length in one season
Section Hiking: v. The approach to walking the length of the Trail in segments
“Because the A.T. spans a great variety of terrain, ranging from relatively flat and easy, to extremely arduous, the following scale was created as a general guide:
1=Flat
5=Strenuous ups and downs, only occasional flat sections
10=Use of hands required, footing precarious — not recommended for those with fear of heights and not in good physical condition.”
(Appalachian Trail Conservancy)
“Maine: 3-10, New Hampshire: 6-10”
picture: www.mensjournal.com/original-thru-hiker
Preparation for backpacking, hiking the AT
physically
health
what to pack
how to pack
special for through-hikers
It’s important to practice hiking and backpacking before you start your endeavor on the AT. Some good places to practice are local parks and around the neighborhood. This “warmup” is a perfect opportunity to break in your boots and become accustomed to your pack. The terrain on the AT is much more demanding than your local foot path so it’d important to build leg muscle before going on the trail. This will also prevent injuries; like sprains, or pulled muscles. The most common injuries that occur on the AT evolve the knee, hamstrings, and back; so if you have preexisting problems with these areas it’s important to take care of them by stretching or seeing your doctor for a brace of some sort.
The muscles used when backpacking: the abdominals, lumbar muscles, dorsal muscles, gluteals, quadriceps, hamstrings, and calves. This diagram shows where they are in the body, to give a better understanding that it’s just not walking; you’re using all sorts of muscles.
(Berger, Karen. Hiking and Backpacking: A Complete Guide)
photo: blogs.sun.com/mjsim/resource/muscle.2.jpg
The muscles used when backpacking: the abdominals, lumbar muscles, dorsal muscles, gluteals, quadriceps, hamstrings, and calves. This diagram shows where they are in the body, to give a better understanding that it’s just not walking; you’re using all sorts of muscles.
(Berger, Karen. Hiking and Backpacking: A Complete Guide)
photo: blogs.sun.com/mjsim/resource/muscle.2.jpg
The muscles used when backpacking: the abdominals, lumbar muscles, dorsal muscles, gluteals, quadriceps, hamstrings, and calves. This diagram shows where they are in the body, to give a better understanding that it’s just not walking; you’re using all sorts of muscles.
(Berger, Karen. Hiking and Backpacking: A Complete Guide)
photo: blogs.sun.com/mjsim/resource/muscle.2.jpg
The muscles used when backpacking: the abdominals, lumbar muscles, dorsal muscles, gluteals, quadriceps, hamstrings, and calves. This diagram shows where they are in the body, to give a better understanding that it’s just not walking; you’re using all sorts of muscles.
(Berger, Karen. Hiking and Backpacking: A Complete Guide)
photo: blogs.sun.com/mjsim/resource/muscle.2.jpg
The muscles used when backpacking: the abdominals, lumbar muscles, dorsal muscles, gluteals, quadriceps, hamstrings, and calves. This diagram shows where they are in the body, to give a better understanding that it’s just not walking; you’re using all sorts of muscles.
(Berger, Karen. Hiking and Backpacking: A Complete Guide)
photo: blogs.sun.com/mjsim/resource/muscle.2.jpg
The muscles used when backpacking: the abdominals, lumbar muscles, dorsal muscles, gluteals, quadriceps, hamstrings, and calves. This diagram shows where they are in the body, to give a better understanding that it’s just not walking; you’re using all sorts of muscles.
(Berger, Karen. Hiking and Backpacking: A Complete Guide)
photo: blogs.sun.com/mjsim/resource/muscle.2.jpg
The muscles used when backpacking: the abdominals, lumbar muscles, dorsal muscles, gluteals, quadriceps, hamstrings, and calves. This diagram shows where they are in the body, to give a better understanding that it’s just not walking; you’re using all sorts of muscles.
(Berger, Karen. Hiking and Backpacking: A Complete Guide)
photo: blogs.sun.com/mjsim/resource/muscle.2.jpg
The muscles used when backpacking: the abdominals, lumbar muscles, dorsal muscles, gluteals, quadriceps, hamstrings, and calves. This diagram shows where they are in the body, to give a better understanding that it’s just not walking; you’re using all sorts of muscles.
(Berger, Karen. Hiking and Backpacking: A Complete Guide)
photo: blogs.sun.com/mjsim/resource/muscle.2.jpg
The muscles used when backpacking: the abdominals, lumbar muscles, dorsal muscles, gluteals, quadriceps, hamstrings, and calves. This diagram shows where they are in the body, to give a better understanding that it’s just not walking; you’re using all sorts of muscles.
(Berger, Karen. Hiking and Backpacking: A Complete Guide)
photo: blogs.sun.com/mjsim/resource/muscle.2.jpg
The muscles used when backpacking: the abdominals, lumbar muscles, dorsal muscles, gluteals, quadriceps, hamstrings, and calves. This diagram shows where they are in the body, to give a better understanding that it’s just not walking; you’re using all sorts of muscles.
(Berger, Karen. Hiking and Backpacking: A Complete Guide)
photo: blogs.sun.com/mjsim/resource/muscle.2.jpg
The muscles used when backpacking: the abdominals, lumbar muscles, dorsal muscles, gluteals, quadriceps, hamstrings, and calves. This diagram shows where they are in the body, to give a better understanding that it’s just not walking; you’re using all sorts of muscles.
(Berger, Karen. Hiking and Backpacking: A Complete Guide)
photo: blogs.sun.com/mjsim/resource/muscle.2.jpg
The muscles used when backpacking: the abdominals, lumbar muscles, dorsal muscles, gluteals, quadriceps, hamstrings, and calves. This diagram shows where they are in the body, to give a better understanding that it’s just not walking; you’re using all sorts of muscles.
(Berger, Karen. Hiking and Backpacking: A Complete Guide)
photo: blogs.sun.com/mjsim/resource/muscle.2.jpg
The muscles used when backpacking: the abdominals, lumbar muscles, dorsal muscles, gluteals, quadriceps, hamstrings, and calves. This diagram shows where they are in the body, to give a better understanding that it’s just not walking; you’re using all sorts of muscles.
(Berger, Karen. Hiking and Backpacking: A Complete Guide)
photo: blogs.sun.com/mjsim/resource/muscle.2.jpg
The muscles used when backpacking: the abdominals, lumbar muscles, dorsal muscles, gluteals, quadriceps, hamstrings, and calves. This diagram shows where they are in the body, to give a better understanding that it’s just not walking; you’re using all sorts of muscles.
(Berger, Karen. Hiking and Backpacking: A Complete Guide)
photo: blogs.sun.com/mjsim/resource/muscle.2.jpg
The muscles used when backpacking: the abdominals, lumbar muscles, dorsal muscles, gluteals, quadriceps, hamstrings, and calves. This diagram shows where they are in the body, to give a better understanding that it’s just not walking; you’re using all sorts of muscles.
(Berger, Karen. Hiking and Backpacking: A Complete Guide)
photo: blogs.sun.com/mjsim/resource/muscle.2.jpg
The muscles used when backpacking: the abdominals, lumbar muscles, dorsal muscles, gluteals, quadriceps, hamstrings, and calves. This diagram shows where they are in the body, to give a better understanding that it’s just not walking; you’re using all sorts of muscles.
(Berger, Karen. Hiking and Backpacking: A Complete Guide)
photo: blogs.sun.com/mjsim/resource/muscle.2.jpg
The muscles used when backpacking: the abdominals, lumbar muscles, dorsal muscles, gluteals, quadriceps, hamstrings, and calves. This diagram shows where they are in the body, to give a better understanding that it’s just not walking; you’re using all sorts of muscles.
(Berger, Karen. Hiking and Backpacking: A Complete Guide)
photo: blogs.sun.com/mjsim/resource/muscle.2.jpg
The muscles used when backpacking: the abdominals, lumbar muscles, dorsal muscles, gluteals, quadriceps, hamstrings, and calves. This diagram shows where they are in the body, to give a better understanding that it’s just not walking; you’re using all sorts of muscles.
(Berger, Karen. Hiking and Backpacking: A Complete Guide)
photo: blogs.sun.com/mjsim/resource/muscle.2.jpg
The muscles used when backpacking: the abdominals, lumbar muscles, dorsal muscles, gluteals, quadriceps, hamstrings, and calves. This diagram shows where they are in the body, to give a better understanding that it’s just not walking; you’re using all sorts of muscles.
(Berger, Karen. Hiking and Backpacking: A Complete Guide)
photo: blogs.sun.com/mjsim/resource/muscle.2.jpg
The muscles used when backpacking: the abdominals, lumbar muscles, dorsal muscles, gluteals, quadriceps, hamstrings, and calves. This diagram shows where they are in the body, to give a better understanding that it’s just not walking; you’re using all sorts of muscles.
(Berger, Karen. Hiking and Backpacking: A Complete Guide)
photo: blogs.sun.com/mjsim/resource/muscle.2.jpg
The muscles used when backpacking: the abdominals, lumbar muscles, dorsal muscles, gluteals, quadriceps, hamstrings, and calves. This diagram shows where they are in the body, to give a better understanding that it’s just not walking; you’re using all sorts of muscles.
(Berger, Karen. Hiking and Backpacking: A Complete Guide)
photo: blogs.sun.com/mjsim/resource/muscle.2.jpg
The muscles used when backpacking: the abdominals, lumbar muscles, dorsal muscles, gluteals, quadriceps, hamstrings, and calves. This diagram shows where they are in the body, to give a better understanding that it’s just not walking; you’re using all sorts of muscles.
(Berger, Karen. Hiking and Backpacking: A Complete Guide)
photo: blogs.sun.com/mjsim/resource/muscle.2.jpg
The muscles used when backpacking: the abdominals, lumbar muscles, dorsal muscles, gluteals, quadriceps, hamstrings, and calves. This diagram shows where they are in the body, to give a better understanding that it’s just not walking; you’re using all sorts of muscles.
(Berger, Karen. Hiking and Backpacking: A Complete Guide)
photo: blogs.sun.com/mjsim/resource/muscle.2.jpg
The muscles used when backpacking: the abdominals, lumbar muscles, dorsal muscles, gluteals, quadriceps, hamstrings, and calves. This diagram shows where they are in the body, to give a better understanding that it’s just not walking; you’re using all sorts of muscles.
(Berger, Karen. Hiking and Backpacking: A Complete Guide)
photo: blogs.sun.com/mjsim/resource/muscle.2.jpg
The muscles used when backpacking: the abdominals, lumbar muscles, dorsal muscles, gluteals, quadriceps, hamstrings, and calves. This diagram shows where they are in the body, to give a better understanding that it’s just not walking; you’re using all sorts of muscles.
(Berger, Karen. Hiking and Backpacking: A Complete Guide)
photo: blogs.sun.com/mjsim/resource/muscle.2.jpg
What you bring depends on how long your going to be out on the trail and what season you’ll be hiking in. But what should you bring in general?
dehydrated or food that doesn't need to be refrigerated,
a lightweight sleeping bag (this can take up a lot of room, stores like REI and EMS sell special light weight bags that barely take up any space),
a tent (depending on how many people there are you can split up the load, make sure it has a rain fly),
a mess-kit (to cook your food in)
a few clothing items (this should be limited to a few shirts and a few shorts)
a first aid kit
toothbrush and toothpaste (small, paste can be shared)
a rain coat
2 water bottles and a bladder (hydration is one of the most important things when hiking)
sandals (after a day of hiking miles and miles your feet need a break, however they should still be protective)
extra hiking socks (will be worth it, it’s important to keep you feet dry, there’s only one thing worse than cold, wet, soar feet... wet toilet paper)
toilet paper IN A WATERPROOF BAG (there’s nothing as useless as wet toilet paper)
however there’s nothing more useful than duct tape(take it off the roll to save space)
a cell phone (for emergencies so you wont use it often)
a small wash cloth (to wipe down with and it comes in handy as a hot pad or “oven mitt”)
a bandana and hat (keeps you cool and keeps the sun out of your eyes)
sun screen (the most common injury on the AT is sunburn, it sucks and can get nasty)
bug-spray (for those Westnile infested states like West Virginia)
cards (you get bored, truly is a sanity item)
deodorant (many hikers smell bad because of the lack of showers, deodorant makes the smell a little more bearable)
a comb or brush (after a while hikers just seem to stop brushing their hair so a small brush or comb would be better)
a small stove (it’s easier to cook food on a stove and the heat can be more controlled than on a fire, also comes in handy when there’s rain)
matches (mans tool to create fire, and light a stove)
a water purifier (back in the day the water may have been safe to drink but today there are all sorts of bacteria in that water than can make you spend you day in the privy or worse)
and finally ONE LUXERY ITEM (this is the item that a hiker can bring for their enjoyment, like a book, teddy bear, ball, extra clothes, or an umbrella)
(Berger, Karen. Backpacking and Hiking )
What you bring depends on how long your going to be out on the trail and what season you’ll be hiking in. But what should you bring in general?
dehydrated or food that doesn't need to be refrigerated,
a lightweight sleeping bag (this can take up a lot of room, stores like REI and EMS sell special light weight bags that barely take up any space),
a tent (depending on how many people there are you can split up the load, make sure it has a rain fly),
a mess-kit (to cook your food in)
a few clothing items (this should be limited to a few shirts and a few shorts)
a first aid kit
toothbrush and toothpaste (small, paste can be shared)
a rain coat
2 water bottles and a bladder (hydration is one of the most important things when hiking)
sandals (after a day of hiking miles and miles your feet need a break, however they should still be protective)
extra hiking socks (will be worth it, it’s important to keep you feet dry, there’s only one thing worse than cold, wet, soar feet... wet toilet paper)
toilet paper IN A WATERPROOF BAG (there’s nothing as useless as wet toilet paper)
however there’s nothing more useful than duct tape(take it off the roll to save space)
a cell phone (for emergencies so you wont use it often)
a small wash cloth (to wipe down with and it comes in handy as a hot pad or “oven mitt”)
a bandana and hat (keeps you cool and keeps the sun out of your eyes)
sun screen (the most common injury on the AT is sunburn, it sucks and can get nasty)
bug-spray (for those Westnile infested states like West Virginia)
cards (you get bored, truly is a sanity item)
deodorant (many hikers smell bad because of the lack of showers, deodorant makes the smell a little more bearable)
a comb or brush (after a while hikers just seem to stop brushing their hair so a small brush or comb would be better)
a small stove (it’s easier to cook food on a stove and the heat can be more controlled than on a fire, also comes in handy when there’s rain)
matches (mans tool to create fire, and light a stove)
a water purifier (back in the day the water may have been safe to drink but today there are all sorts of bacteria in that water than can make you spend you day in the privy or worse)
and finally ONE LUXERY ITEM (this is the item that a hiker can bring for their enjoyment, like a book, teddy bear, ball, extra clothes, or an umbrella)
(Berger, Karen. Backpacking and Hiking )
What you bring depends on how long your going to be out on the trail and what season you’ll be hiking in. But what should you bring in general?
dehydrated or food that doesn't need to be refrigerated,
a lightweight sleeping bag (this can take up a lot of room, stores like REI and EMS sell special light weight bags that barely take up any space),
a tent (depending on how many people there are you can split up the load, make sure it has a rain fly),
a mess-kit (to cook your food in)
a few clothing items (this should be limited to a few shirts and a few shorts)
a first aid kit
toothbrush and toothpaste (small, paste can be shared)
a rain coat
2 water bottles and a bladder (hydration is one of the most important things when hiking)
sandals (after a day of hiking miles and miles your feet need a break, however they should still be protective)
extra hiking socks (will be worth it, it’s important to keep you feet dry, there’s only one thing worse than cold, wet, soar feet... wet toilet paper)
toilet paper IN A WATERPROOF BAG (there’s nothing as useless as wet toilet paper)
however there’s nothing more useful than duct tape(take it off the roll to save space)
a cell phone (for emergencies so you wont use it often)
a small wash cloth (to wipe down with and it comes in handy as a hot pad or “oven mitt”)
a bandana and hat (keeps you cool and keeps the sun out of your eyes)
sun screen (the most common injury on the AT is sunburn, it sucks and can get nasty)
bug-spray (for those Westnile infested states like West Virginia)
cards (you get bored, truly is a sanity item)
deodorant (many hikers smell bad because of the lack of showers, deodorant makes the smell a little more bearable)
a comb or brush (after a while hikers just seem to stop brushing their hair so a small brush or comb would be better)
a small stove (it’s easier to cook food on a stove and the heat can be more controlled than on a fire, also comes in handy when there’s rain)
matches (mans tool to create fire, and light a stove)
a water purifier (back in the day the water may have been safe to drink but today there are all sorts of bacteria in that water than can make you spend you day in the privy or worse)
and finally ONE LUXERY ITEM (this is the item that a hiker can bring for their enjoyment, like a book, teddy bear, ball, extra clothes, or an umbrella)
(Berger, Karen. Backpacking and Hiking )
What you bring depends on how long your going to be out on the trail and what season you’ll be hiking in. But what should you bring in general?
dehydrated or food that doesn't need to be refrigerated,
a lightweight sleeping bag (this can take up a lot of room, stores like REI and EMS sell special light weight bags that barely take up any space),
a tent (depending on how many people there are you can split up the load, make sure it has a rain fly),
a mess-kit (to cook your food in)
a few clothing items (this should be limited to a few shirts and a few shorts)
a first aid kit
toothbrush and toothpaste (small, paste can be shared)
a rain coat
2 water bottles and a bladder (hydration is one of the most important things when hiking)
sandals (after a day of hiking miles and miles your feet need a break, however they should still be protective)
extra hiking socks (will be worth it, it’s important to keep you feet dry, there’s only one thing worse than cold, wet, soar feet... wet toilet paper)
toilet paper IN A WATERPROOF BAG (there’s nothing as useless as wet toilet paper)
however there’s nothing more useful than duct tape(take it off the roll to save space)
a cell phone (for emergencies so you wont use it often)
a small wash cloth (to wipe down with and it comes in handy as a hot pad or “oven mitt”)
a bandana and hat (keeps you cool and keeps the sun out of your eyes)
sun screen (the most common injury on the AT is sunburn, it sucks and can get nasty)
bug-spray (for those Westnile infested states like West Virginia)
cards (you get bored, truly is a sanity item)
deodorant (many hikers smell bad because of the lack of showers, deodorant makes the smell a little more bearable)
a comb or brush (after a while hikers just seem to stop brushing their hair so a small brush or comb would be better)
a small stove (it’s easier to cook food on a stove and the heat can be more controlled than on a fire, also comes in handy when there’s rain)
matches (mans tool to create fire, and light a stove)
a water purifier (back in the day the water may have been safe to drink but today there are all sorts of bacteria in that water than can make you spend you day in the privy or worse)
and finally ONE LUXERY ITEM (this is the item that a hiker can bring for their enjoyment, like a book, teddy bear, ball, extra clothes, or an umbrella)
(Berger, Karen. Backpacking and Hiking )
What you bring depends on how long your going to be out on the trail and what season you’ll be hiking in. But what should you bring in general?
dehydrated or food that doesn't need to be refrigerated,
a lightweight sleeping bag (this can take up a lot of room, stores like REI and EMS sell special light weight bags that barely take up any space),
a tent (depending on how many people there are you can split up the load, make sure it has a rain fly),
a mess-kit (to cook your food in)
a few clothing items (this should be limited to a few shirts and a few shorts)
a first aid kit
toothbrush and toothpaste (small, paste can be shared)
a rain coat
2 water bottles and a bladder (hydration is one of the most important things when hiking)
sandals (after a day of hiking miles and miles your feet need a break, however they should still be protective)
extra hiking socks (will be worth it, it’s important to keep you feet dry, there’s only one thing worse than cold, wet, soar feet... wet toilet paper)
toilet paper IN A WATERPROOF BAG (there’s nothing as useless as wet toilet paper)
however there’s nothing more useful than duct tape(take it off the roll to save space)
a cell phone (for emergencies so you wont use it often)
a small wash cloth (to wipe down with and it comes in handy as a hot pad or “oven mitt”)
a bandana and hat (keeps you cool and keeps the sun out of your eyes)
sun screen (the most common injury on the AT is sunburn, it sucks and can get nasty)
bug-spray (for those Westnile infested states like West Virginia)
cards (you get bored, truly is a sanity item)
deodorant (many hikers smell bad because of the lack of showers, deodorant makes the smell a little more bearable)
a comb or brush (after a while hikers just seem to stop brushing their hair so a small brush or comb would be better)
a small stove (it’s easier to cook food on a stove and the heat can be more controlled than on a fire, also comes in handy when there’s rain)
matches (mans tool to create fire, and light a stove)
a water purifier (back in the day the water may have been safe to drink but today there are all sorts of bacteria in that water than can make you spend you day in the privy or worse)
and finally ONE LUXERY ITEM (this is the item that a hiker can bring for their enjoyment, like a book, teddy bear, ball, extra clothes, or an umbrella)
(Berger, Karen. Backpacking and Hiking )
What you bring depends on how long your going to be out on the trail and what season you’ll be hiking in. But what should you bring in general?
dehydrated or food that doesn't need to be refrigerated,
a lightweight sleeping bag (this can take up a lot of room, stores like REI and EMS sell special light weight bags that barely take up any space),
a tent (depending on how many people there are you can split up the load, make sure it has a rain fly),
a mess-kit (to cook your food in)
a few clothing items (this should be limited to a few shirts and a few shorts)
a first aid kit
toothbrush and toothpaste (small, paste can be shared)
a rain coat
2 water bottles and a bladder (hydration is one of the most important things when hiking)
sandals (after a day of hiking miles and miles your feet need a break, however they should still be protective)
extra hiking socks (will be worth it, it’s important to keep you feet dry, there’s only one thing worse than cold, wet, soar feet... wet toilet paper)
toilet paper IN A WATERPROOF BAG (there’s nothing as useless as wet toilet paper)
however there’s nothing more useful than duct tape(take it off the roll to save space)
a cell phone (for emergencies so you wont use it often)
a small wash cloth (to wipe down with and it comes in handy as a hot pad or “oven mitt”)
a bandana and hat (keeps you cool and keeps the sun out of your eyes)
sun screen (the most common injury on the AT is sunburn, it sucks and can get nasty)
bug-spray (for those Westnile infested states like West Virginia)
cards (you get bored, truly is a sanity item)
deodorant (many hikers smell bad because of the lack of showers, deodorant makes the smell a little more bearable)
a comb or brush (after a while hikers just seem to stop brushing their hair so a small brush or comb would be better)
a small stove (it’s easier to cook food on a stove and the heat can be more controlled than on a fire, also comes in handy when there’s rain)
matches (mans tool to create fire, and light a stove)
a water purifier (back in the day the water may have been safe to drink but today there are all sorts of bacteria in that water than can make you spend you day in the privy or worse)
and finally ONE LUXERY ITEM (this is the item that a hiker can bring for their enjoyment, like a book, teddy bear, ball, extra clothes, or an umbrella)
(Berger, Karen. Backpacking and Hiking )
What you bring depends on how long your going to be out on the trail and what season you’ll be hiking in. But what should you bring in general?
dehydrated or food that doesn't need to be refrigerated,
a lightweight sleeping bag (this can take up a lot of room, stores like REI and EMS sell special light weight bags that barely take up any space),
a tent (depending on how many people there are you can split up the load, make sure it has a rain fly),
a mess-kit (to cook your food in)
a few clothing items (this should be limited to a few shirts and a few shorts)
a first aid kit
toothbrush and toothpaste (small, paste can be shared)
a rain coat
2 water bottles and a bladder (hydration is one of the most important things when hiking)
sandals (after a day of hiking miles and miles your feet need a break, however they should still be protective)
extra hiking socks (will be worth it, it’s important to keep you feet dry, there’s only one thing worse than cold, wet, soar feet... wet toilet paper)
toilet paper IN A WATERPROOF BAG (there’s nothing as useless as wet toilet paper)
however there’s nothing more useful than duct tape(take it off the roll to save space)
a cell phone (for emergencies so you wont use it often)
a small wash cloth (to wipe down with and it comes in handy as a hot pad or “oven mitt”)
a bandana and hat (keeps you cool and keeps the sun out of your eyes)
sun screen (the most common injury on the AT is sunburn, it sucks and can get nasty)
bug-spray (for those Westnile infested states like West Virginia)
cards (you get bored, truly is a sanity item)
deodorant (many hikers smell bad because of the lack of showers, deodorant makes the smell a little more bearable)
a comb or brush (after a while hikers just seem to stop brushing their hair so a small brush or comb would be better)
a small stove (it’s easier to cook food on a stove and the heat can be more controlled than on a fire, also comes in handy when there’s rain)
matches (mans tool to create fire, and light a stove)
a water purifier (back in the day the water may have been safe to drink but today there are all sorts of bacteria in that water than can make you spend you day in the privy or worse)
and finally ONE LUXERY ITEM (this is the item that a hiker can bring for their enjoyment, like a book, teddy bear, ball, extra clothes, or an umbrella)
(Berger, Karen. Backpacking and Hiking )
What you bring depends on how long your going to be out on the trail and what season you’ll be hiking in. But what should you bring in general?
dehydrated or food that doesn't need to be refrigerated,
a lightweight sleeping bag (this can take up a lot of room, stores like REI and EMS sell special light weight bags that barely take up any space),
a tent (depending on how many people there are you can split up the load, make sure it has a rain fly),
a mess-kit (to cook your food in)
a few clothing items (this should be limited to a few shirts and a few shorts)
a first aid kit
toothbrush and toothpaste (small, paste can be shared)
a rain coat
2 water bottles and a bladder (hydration is one of the most important things when hiking)
sandals (after a day of hiking miles and miles your feet need a break, however they should still be protective)
extra hiking socks (will be worth it, it’s important to keep you feet dry, there’s only one thing worse than cold, wet, soar feet... wet toilet paper)
toilet paper IN A WATERPROOF BAG (there’s nothing as useless as wet toilet paper)
however there’s nothing more useful than duct tape(take it off the roll to save space)
a cell phone (for emergencies so you wont use it often)
a small wash cloth (to wipe down with and it comes in handy as a hot pad or “oven mitt”)
a bandana and hat (keeps you cool and keeps the sun out of your eyes)
sun screen (the most common injury on the AT is sunburn, it sucks and can get nasty)
bug-spray (for those Westnile infested states like West Virginia)
cards (you get bored, truly is a sanity item)
deodorant (many hikers smell bad because of the lack of showers, deodorant makes the smell a little more bearable)
a comb or brush (after a while hikers just seem to stop brushing their hair so a small brush or comb would be better)
a small stove (it’s easier to cook food on a stove and the heat can be more controlled than on a fire, also comes in handy when there’s rain)
matches (mans tool to create fire, and light a stove)
a water purifier (back in the day the water may have been safe to drink but today there are all sorts of bacteria in that water than can make you spend you day in the privy or worse)
and finally ONE LUXERY ITEM (this is the item that a hiker can bring for their enjoyment, like a book, teddy bear, ball, extra clothes, or an umbrella)
(Berger, Karen. Backpacking and Hiking )
What you bring depends on how long your going to be out on the trail and what season you’ll be hiking in. But what should you bring in general?
dehydrated or food that doesn't need to be refrigerated,
a lightweight sleeping bag (this can take up a lot of room, stores like REI and EMS sell special light weight bags that barely take up any space),
a tent (depending on how many people there are you can split up the load, make sure it has a rain fly),
a mess-kit (to cook your food in)
a few clothing items (this should be limited to a few shirts and a few shorts)
a first aid kit
toothbrush and toothpaste (small, paste can be shared)
a rain coat
2 water bottles and a bladder (hydration is one of the most important things when hiking)
sandals (after a day of hiking miles and miles your feet need a break, however they should still be protective)
extra hiking socks (will be worth it, it’s important to keep you feet dry, there’s only one thing worse than cold, wet, soar feet... wet toilet paper)
toilet paper IN A WATERPROOF BAG (there’s nothing as useless as wet toilet paper)
however there’s nothing more useful than duct tape(take it off the roll to save space)
a cell phone (for emergencies so you wont use it often)
a small wash cloth (to wipe down with and it comes in handy as a hot pad or “oven mitt”)
a bandana and hat (keeps you cool and keeps the sun out of your eyes)
sun screen (the most common injury on the AT is sunburn, it sucks and can get nasty)
bug-spray (for those Westnile infested states like West Virginia)
cards (you get bored, truly is a sanity item)
deodorant (many hikers smell bad because of the lack of showers, deodorant makes the smell a little more bearable)
a comb or brush (after a while hikers just seem to stop brushing their hair so a small brush or comb would be better)
a small stove (it’s easier to cook food on a stove and the heat can be more controlled than on a fire, also comes in handy when there’s rain)
matches (mans tool to create fire, and light a stove)
a water purifier (back in the day the water may have been safe to drink but today there are all sorts of bacteria in that water than can make you spend you day in the privy or worse)
and finally ONE LUXERY ITEM (this is the item that a hiker can bring for their enjoyment, like a book, teddy bear, ball, extra clothes, or an umbrella)
(Berger, Karen. Backpacking and Hiking )
What you bring depends on how long your going to be out on the trail and what season you’ll be hiking in. But what should you bring in general?
dehydrated or food that doesn't need to be refrigerated,
a lightweight sleeping bag (this can take up a lot of room, stores like REI and EMS sell special light weight bags that barely take up any space),
a tent (depending on how many people there are you can split up the load, make sure it has a rain fly),
a mess-kit (to cook your food in)
a few clothing items (this should be limited to a few shirts and a few shorts)
a first aid kit
toothbrush and toothpaste (small, paste can be shared)
a rain coat
2 water bottles and a bladder (hydration is one of the most important things when hiking)
sandals (after a day of hiking miles and miles your feet need a break, however they should still be protective)
extra hiking socks (will be worth it, it’s important to keep you feet dry, there’s only one thing worse than cold, wet, soar feet... wet toilet paper)
toilet paper IN A WATERPROOF BAG (there’s nothing as useless as wet toilet paper)
however there’s nothing more useful than duct tape(take it off the roll to save space)
a cell phone (for emergencies so you wont use it often)
a small wash cloth (to wipe down with and it comes in handy as a hot pad or “oven mitt”)
a bandana and hat (keeps you cool and keeps the sun out of your eyes)
sun screen (the most common injury on the AT is sunburn, it sucks and can get nasty)
bug-spray (for those Westnile infested states like West Virginia)
cards (you get bored, truly is a sanity item)
deodorant (many hikers smell bad because of the lack of showers, deodorant makes the smell a little more bearable)
a comb or brush (after a while hikers just seem to stop brushing their hair so a small brush or comb would be better)
a small stove (it’s easier to cook food on a stove and the heat can be more controlled than on a fire, also comes in handy when there’s rain)
matches (mans tool to create fire, and light a stove)
a water purifier (back in the day the water may have been safe to drink but today there are all sorts of bacteria in that water than can make you spend you day in the privy or worse)
and finally ONE LUXERY ITEM (this is the item that a hiker can bring for their enjoyment, like a book, teddy bear, ball, extra clothes, or an umbrella)
(Berger, Karen. Backpacking and Hiking )
What you bring depends on how long your going to be out on the trail and what season you’ll be hiking in. But what should you bring in general?
dehydrated or food that doesn't need to be refrigerated,
a lightweight sleeping bag (this can take up a lot of room, stores like REI and EMS sell special light weight bags that barely take up any space),
a tent (depending on how many people there are you can split up the load, make sure it has a rain fly),
a mess-kit (to cook your food in)
a few clothing items (this should be limited to a few shirts and a few shorts)
a first aid kit
toothbrush and toothpaste (small, paste can be shared)
a rain coat
2 water bottles and a bladder (hydration is one of the most important things when hiking)
sandals (after a day of hiking miles and miles your feet need a break, however they should still be protective)
extra hiking socks (will be worth it, it’s important to keep you feet dry, there’s only one thing worse than cold, wet, soar feet... wet toilet paper)
toilet paper IN A WATERPROOF BAG (there’s nothing as useless as wet toilet paper)
however there’s nothing more useful than duct tape(take it off the roll to save space)
a cell phone (for emergencies so you wont use it often)
a small wash cloth (to wipe down with and it comes in handy as a hot pad or “oven mitt”)
a bandana and hat (keeps you cool and keeps the sun out of your eyes)
sun screen (the most common injury on the AT is sunburn, it sucks and can get nasty)
bug-spray (for those Westnile infested states like West Virginia)
cards (you get bored, truly is a sanity item)
deodorant (many hikers smell bad because of the lack of showers, deodorant makes the smell a little more bearable)
a comb or brush (after a while hikers just seem to stop brushing their hair so a small brush or comb would be better)
a small stove (it’s easier to cook food on a stove and the heat can be more controlled than on a fire, also comes in handy when there’s rain)
matches (mans tool to create fire, and light a stove)
a water purifier (back in the day the water may have been safe to drink but today there are all sorts of bacteria in that water than can make you spend you day in the privy or worse)
and finally ONE LUXERY ITEM (this is the item that a hiker can bring for their enjoyment, like a book, teddy bear, ball, extra clothes, or an umbrella)
(Berger, Karen. Backpacking and Hiking )
What you bring depends on how long your going to be out on the trail and what season you’ll be hiking in. But what should you bring in general?
dehydrated or food that doesn't need to be refrigerated,
a lightweight sleeping bag (this can take up a lot of room, stores like REI and EMS sell special light weight bags that barely take up any space),
a tent (depending on how many people there are you can split up the load, make sure it has a rain fly),
a mess-kit (to cook your food in)
a few clothing items (this should be limited to a few shirts and a few shorts)
a first aid kit
toothbrush and toothpaste (small, paste can be shared)
a rain coat
2 water bottles and a bladder (hydration is one of the most important things when hiking)
sandals (after a day of hiking miles and miles your feet need a break, however they should still be protective)
extra hiking socks (will be worth it, it’s important to keep you feet dry, there’s only one thing worse than cold, wet, soar feet... wet toilet paper)
toilet paper IN A WATERPROOF BAG (there’s nothing as useless as wet toilet paper)
however there’s nothing more useful than duct tape(take it off the roll to save space)
a cell phone (for emergencies so you wont use it often)
a small wash cloth (to wipe down with and it comes in handy as a hot pad or “oven mitt”)
a bandana and hat (keeps you cool and keeps the sun out of your eyes)
sun screen (the most common injury on the AT is sunburn, it sucks and can get nasty)
bug-spray (for those Westnile infested states like West Virginia)
cards (you get bored, truly is a sanity item)
deodorant (many hikers smell bad because of the lack of showers, deodorant makes the smell a little more bearable)
a comb or brush (after a while hikers just seem to stop brushing their hair so a small brush or comb would be better)
a small stove (it’s easier to cook food on a stove and the heat can be more controlled than on a fire, also comes in handy when there’s rain)
matches (mans tool to create fire, and light a stove)
a water purifier (back in the day the water may have been safe to drink but today there are all sorts of bacteria in that water than can make you spend you day in the privy or worse)
and finally ONE LUXERY ITEM (this is the item that a hiker can bring for their enjoyment, like a book, teddy bear, ball, extra clothes, or an umbrella)
(Berger, Karen. Backpacking and Hiking )
What you bring depends on how long your going to be out on the trail and what season you’ll be hiking in. But what should you bring in general?
dehydrated or food that doesn't need to be refrigerated,
a lightweight sleeping bag (this can take up a lot of room, stores like REI and EMS sell special light weight bags that barely take up any space),
a tent (depending on how many people there are you can split up the load, make sure it has a rain fly),
a mess-kit (to cook your food in)
a few clothing items (this should be limited to a few shirts and a few shorts)
a first aid kit
toothbrush and toothpaste (small, paste can be shared)
a rain coat
2 water bottles and a bladder (hydration is one of the most important things when hiking)
sandals (after a day of hiking miles and miles your feet need a break, however they should still be protective)
extra hiking socks (will be worth it, it’s important to keep you feet dry, there’s only one thing worse than cold, wet, soar feet... wet toilet paper)
toilet paper IN A WATERPROOF BAG (there’s nothing as useless as wet toilet paper)
however there’s nothing more useful than duct tape(take it off the roll to save space)
a cell phone (for emergencies so you wont use it often)
a small wash cloth (to wipe down with and it comes in handy as a hot pad or “oven mitt”)
a bandana and hat (keeps you cool and keeps the sun out of your eyes)
sun screen (the most common injury on the AT is sunburn, it sucks and can get nasty)
bug-spray (for those Westnile infested states like West Virginia)
cards (you get bored, truly is a sanity item)
deodorant (many hikers smell bad because of the lack of showers, deodorant makes the smell a little more bearable)
a comb or brush (after a while hikers just seem to stop brushing their hair so a small brush or comb would be better)
a small stove (it’s easier to cook food on a stove and the heat can be more controlled than on a fire, also comes in handy when there’s rain)
matches (mans tool to create fire, and light a stove)
a water purifier (back in the day the water may have been safe to drink but today there are all sorts of bacteria in that water than can make you spend you day in the privy or worse)
and finally ONE LUXERY ITEM (this is the item that a hiker can bring for their enjoyment, like a book, teddy bear, ball, extra clothes, or an umbrella)
(Berger, Karen. Backpacking and Hiking )
What you bring depends on how long your going to be out on the trail and what season you’ll be hiking in. But what should you bring in general?
dehydrated or food that doesn't need to be refrigerated,
a lightweight sleeping bag (this can take up a lot of room, stores like REI and EMS sell special light weight bags that barely take up any space),
a tent (depending on how many people there are you can split up the load, make sure it has a rain fly),
a mess-kit (to cook your food in)
a few clothing items (this should be limited to a few shirts and a few shorts)
a first aid kit
toothbrush and toothpaste (small, paste can be shared)
a rain coat
2 water bottles and a bladder (hydration is one of the most important things when hiking)
sandals (after a day of hiking miles and miles your feet need a break, however they should still be protective)
extra hiking socks (will be worth it, it’s important to keep you feet dry, there’s only one thing worse than cold, wet, soar feet... wet toilet paper)
toilet paper IN A WATERPROOF BAG (there’s nothing as useless as wet toilet paper)
however there’s nothing more useful than duct tape(take it off the roll to save space)
a cell phone (for emergencies so you wont use it often)
a small wash cloth (to wipe down with and it comes in handy as a hot pad or “oven mitt”)
a bandana and hat (keeps you cool and keeps the sun out of your eyes)
sun screen (the most common injury on the AT is sunburn, it sucks and can get nasty)
bug-spray (for those Westnile infested states like West Virginia)
cards (you get bored, truly is a sanity item)
deodorant (many hikers smell bad because of the lack of showers, deodorant makes the smell a little more bearable)
a comb or brush (after a while hikers just seem to stop brushing their hair so a small brush or comb would be better)
a small stove (it’s easier to cook food on a stove and the heat can be more controlled than on a fire, also comes in handy when there’s rain)
matches (mans tool to create fire, and light a stove)
a water purifier (back in the day the water may have been safe to drink but today there are all sorts of bacteria in that water than can make you spend you day in the privy or worse)
and finally ONE LUXERY ITEM (this is the item that a hiker can bring for their enjoyment, like a book, teddy bear, ball, extra clothes, or an umbrella)
(Berger, Karen. Backpacking and Hiking )
What you bring depends on how long your going to be out on the trail and what season you’ll be hiking in. But what should you bring in general?
dehydrated or food that doesn't need to be refrigerated,
a lightweight sleeping bag (this can take up a lot of room, stores like REI and EMS sell special light weight bags that barely take up any space),
a tent (depending on how many people there are you can split up the load, make sure it has a rain fly),
a mess-kit (to cook your food in)
a few clothing items (this should be limited to a few shirts and a few shorts)
a first aid kit
toothbrush and toothpaste (small, paste can be shared)
a rain coat
2 water bottles and a bladder (hydration is one of the most important things when hiking)
sandals (after a day of hiking miles and miles your feet need a break, however they should still be protective)
extra hiking socks (will be worth it, it’s important to keep you feet dry, there’s only one thing worse than cold, wet, soar feet... wet toilet paper)
toilet paper IN A WATERPROOF BAG (there’s nothing as useless as wet toilet paper)
however there’s nothing more useful than duct tape(take it off the roll to save space)
a cell phone (for emergencies so you wont use it often)
a small wash cloth (to wipe down with and it comes in handy as a hot pad or “oven mitt”)
a bandana and hat (keeps you cool and keeps the sun out of your eyes)
sun screen (the most common injury on the AT is sunburn, it sucks and can get nasty)
bug-spray (for those Westnile infested states like West Virginia)
cards (you get bored, truly is a sanity item)
deodorant (many hikers smell bad because of the lack of showers, deodorant makes the smell a little more bearable)
a comb or brush (after a while hikers just seem to stop brushing their hair so a small brush or comb would be better)
a small stove (it’s easier to cook food on a stove and the heat can be more controlled than on a fire, also comes in handy when there’s rain)
matches (mans tool to create fire, and light a stove)
a water purifier (back in the day the water may have been safe to drink but today there are all sorts of bacteria in that water than can make you spend you day in the privy or worse)
and finally ONE LUXERY ITEM (this is the item that a hiker can bring for their enjoyment, like a book, teddy bear, ball, extra clothes, or an umbrella)
(Berger, Karen. Backpacking and Hiking )
What you bring depends on how long your going to be out on the trail and what season you’ll be hiking in. But what should you bring in general?
dehydrated or food that doesn't need to be refrigerated,
a lightweight sleeping bag (this can take up a lot of room, stores like REI and EMS sell special light weight bags that barely take up any space),
a tent (depending on how many people there are you can split up the load, make sure it has a rain fly),
a mess-kit (to cook your food in)
a few clothing items (this should be limited to a few shirts and a few shorts)
a first aid kit
toothbrush and toothpaste (small, paste can be shared)
a rain coat
2 water bottles and a bladder (hydration is one of the most important things when hiking)
sandals (after a day of hiking miles and miles your feet need a break, however they should still be protective)
extra hiking socks (will be worth it, it’s important to keep you feet dry, there’s only one thing worse than cold, wet, soar feet... wet toilet paper)
toilet paper IN A WATERPROOF BAG (there’s nothing as useless as wet toilet paper)
however there’s nothing more useful than duct tape(take it off the roll to save space)
a cell phone (for emergencies so you wont use it often)
a small wash cloth (to wipe down with and it comes in handy as a hot pad or “oven mitt”)
a bandana and hat (keeps you cool and keeps the sun out of your eyes)
sun screen (the most common injury on the AT is sunburn, it sucks and can get nasty)
bug-spray (for those Westnile infested states like West Virginia)
cards (you get bored, truly is a sanity item)
deodorant (many hikers smell bad because of the lack of showers, deodorant makes the smell a little more bearable)
a comb or brush (after a while hikers just seem to stop brushing their hair so a small brush or comb would be better)
a small stove (it’s easier to cook food on a stove and the heat can be more controlled than on a fire, also comes in handy when there’s rain)
matches (mans tool to create fire, and light a stove)
a water purifier (back in the day the water may have been safe to drink but today there are all sorts of bacteria in that water than can make you spend you day in the privy or worse)
and finally ONE LUXERY ITEM (this is the item that a hiker can bring for their enjoyment, like a book, teddy bear, ball, extra clothes, or an umbrella)
(Berger, Karen. Backpacking and Hiking )
What you bring depends on how long your going to be out on the trail and what season you’ll be hiking in. But what should you bring in general?
dehydrated or food that doesn't need to be refrigerated,
a lightweight sleeping bag (this can take up a lot of room, stores like REI and EMS sell special light weight bags that barely take up any space),
a tent (depending on how many people there are you can split up the load, make sure it has a rain fly),
a mess-kit (to cook your food in)
a few clothing items (this should be limited to a few shirts and a few shorts)
a first aid kit
toothbrush and toothpaste (small, paste can be shared)
a rain coat
2 water bottles and a bladder (hydration is one of the most important things when hiking)
sandals (after a day of hiking miles and miles your feet need a break, however they should still be protective)
extra hiking socks (will be worth it, it’s important to keep you feet dry, there’s only one thing worse than cold, wet, soar feet... wet toilet paper)
toilet paper IN A WATERPROOF BAG (there’s nothing as useless as wet toilet paper)
however there’s nothing more useful than duct tape(take it off the roll to save space)
a cell phone (for emergencies so you wont use it often)
a small wash cloth (to wipe down with and it comes in handy as a hot pad or “oven mitt”)
a bandana and hat (keeps you cool and keeps the sun out of your eyes)
sun screen (the most common injury on the AT is sunburn, it sucks and can get nasty)
bug-spray (for those Westnile infested states like West Virginia)
cards (you get bored, truly is a sanity item)
deodorant (many hikers smell bad because of the lack of showers, deodorant makes the smell a little more bearable)
a comb or brush (after a while hikers just seem to stop brushing their hair so a small brush or comb would be better)
a small stove (it’s easier to cook food on a stove and the heat can be more controlled than on a fire, also comes in handy when there’s rain)
matches (mans tool to create fire, and light a stove)
a water purifier (back in the day the water may have been safe to drink but today there are all sorts of bacteria in that water than can make you spend you day in the privy or worse)
and finally ONE LUXERY ITEM (this is the item that a hiker can bring for their enjoyment, like a book, teddy bear, ball, extra clothes, or an umbrella)
(Berger, Karen. Backpacking and Hiking )
What you bring depends on how long your going to be out on the trail and what season you’ll be hiking in. But what should you bring in general?
dehydrated or food that doesn't need to be refrigerated,
a lightweight sleeping bag (this can take up a lot of room, stores like REI and EMS sell special light weight bags that barely take up any space),
a tent (depending on how many people there are you can split up the load, make sure it has a rain fly),
a mess-kit (to cook your food in)
a few clothing items (this should be limited to a few shirts and a few shorts)
a first aid kit
toothbrush and toothpaste (small, paste can be shared)
a rain coat
2 water bottles and a bladder (hydration is one of the most important things when hiking)
sandals (after a day of hiking miles and miles your feet need a break, however they should still be protective)
extra hiking socks (will be worth it, it’s important to keep you feet dry, there’s only one thing worse than cold, wet, soar feet... wet toilet paper)
toilet paper IN A WATERPROOF BAG (there’s nothing as useless as wet toilet paper)
however there’s nothing more useful than duct tape(take it off the roll to save space)
a cell phone (for emergencies so you wont use it often)
a small wash cloth (to wipe down with and it comes in handy as a hot pad or “oven mitt”)
a bandana and hat (keeps you cool and keeps the sun out of your eyes)
sun screen (the most common injury on the AT is sunburn, it sucks and can get nasty)
bug-spray (for those Westnile infested states like West Virginia)
cards (you get bored, truly is a sanity item)
deodorant (many hikers smell bad because of the lack of showers, deodorant makes the smell a little more bearable)
a comb or brush (after a while hikers just seem to stop brushing their hair so a small brush or comb would be better)
a small stove (it’s easier to cook food on a stove and the heat can be more controlled than on a fire, also comes in handy when there’s rain)
matches (mans tool to create fire, and light a stove)
a water purifier (back in the day the water may have been safe to drink but today there are all sorts of bacteria in that water than can make you spend you day in the privy or worse)
and finally ONE LUXERY ITEM (this is the item that a hiker can bring for their enjoyment, like a book, teddy bear, ball, extra clothes, or an umbrella)
(Berger, Karen. Backpacking and Hiking )
What you bring depends on how long your going to be out on the trail and what season you’ll be hiking in. But what should you bring in general?
dehydrated or food that doesn't need to be refrigerated,
a lightweight sleeping bag (this can take up a lot of room, stores like REI and EMS sell special light weight bags that barely take up any space),
a tent (depending on how many people there are you can split up the load, make sure it has a rain fly),
a mess-kit (to cook your food in)
a few clothing items (this should be limited to a few shirts and a few shorts)
a first aid kit
toothbrush and toothpaste (small, paste can be shared)
a rain coat
2 water bottles and a bladder (hydration is one of the most important things when hiking)
sandals (after a day of hiking miles and miles your feet need a break, however they should still be protective)
extra hiking socks (will be worth it, it’s important to keep you feet dry, there’s only one thing worse than cold, wet, soar feet... wet toilet paper)
toilet paper IN A WATERPROOF BAG (there’s nothing as useless as wet toilet paper)
however there’s nothing more useful than duct tape(take it off the roll to save space)
a cell phone (for emergencies so you wont use it often)
a small wash cloth (to wipe down with and it comes in handy as a hot pad or “oven mitt”)
a bandana and hat (keeps you cool and keeps the sun out of your eyes)
sun screen (the most common injury on the AT is sunburn, it sucks and can get nasty)
bug-spray (for those Westnile infested states like West Virginia)
cards (you get bored, truly is a sanity item)
deodorant (many hikers smell bad because of the lack of showers, deodorant makes the smell a little more bearable)
a comb or brush (after a while hikers just seem to stop brushing their hair so a small brush or comb would be better)
a small stove (it’s easier to cook food on a stove and the heat can be more controlled than on a fire, also comes in handy when there’s rain)
matches (mans tool to create fire, and light a stove)
a water purifier (back in the day the water may have been safe to drink but today there are all sorts of bacteria in that water than can make you spend you day in the privy or worse)
and finally ONE LUXERY ITEM (this is the item that a hiker can bring for their enjoyment, like a book, teddy bear, ball, extra clothes, or an umbrella)
(Berger, Karen. Backpacking and Hiking )
What you bring depends on how long your going to be out on the trail and what season you’ll be hiking in. But what should you bring in general?
dehydrated or food that doesn't need to be refrigerated,
a lightweight sleeping bag (this can take up a lot of room, stores like REI and EMS sell special light weight bags that barely take up any space),
a tent (depending on how many people there are you can split up the load, make sure it has a rain fly),
a mess-kit (to cook your food in)
a few clothing items (this should be limited to a few shirts and a few shorts)
a first aid kit
toothbrush and toothpaste (small, paste can be shared)
a rain coat
2 water bottles and a bladder (hydration is one of the most important things when hiking)
sandals (after a day of hiking miles and miles your feet need a break, however they should still be protective)
extra hiking socks (will be worth it, it’s important to keep you feet dry, there’s only one thing worse than cold, wet, soar feet... wet toilet paper)
toilet paper IN A WATERPROOF BAG (there’s nothing as useless as wet toilet paper)
however there’s nothing more useful than duct tape(take it off the roll to save space)
a cell phone (for emergencies so you wont use it often)
a small wash cloth (to wipe down with and it comes in handy as a hot pad or “oven mitt”)
a bandana and hat (keeps you cool and keeps the sun out of your eyes)
sun screen (the most common injury on the AT is sunburn, it sucks and can get nasty)
bug-spray (for those Westnile infested states like West Virginia)
cards (you get bored, truly is a sanity item)
deodorant (many hikers smell bad because of the lack of showers, deodorant makes the smell a little more bearable)
a comb or brush (after a while hikers just seem to stop brushing their hair so a small brush or comb would be better)
a small stove (it’s easier to cook food on a stove and the heat can be more controlled than on a fire, also comes in handy when there’s rain)
matches (mans tool to create fire, and light a stove)
a water purifier (back in the day the water may have been safe to drink but today there are all sorts of bacteria in that water than can make you spend you day in the privy or worse)
and finally ONE LUXERY ITEM (this is the item that a hiker can bring for their enjoyment, like a book, teddy bear, ball, extra clothes, or an umbrella)
(Berger, Karen. Backpacking and Hiking )
What you bring depends on how long your going to be out on the trail and what season you’ll be hiking in. But what should you bring in general?
dehydrated or food that doesn't need to be refrigerated,
a lightweight sleeping bag (this can take up a lot of room, stores like REI and EMS sell special light weight bags that barely take up any space),
a tent (depending on how many people there are you can split up the load, make sure it has a rain fly),
a mess-kit (to cook your food in)
a few clothing items (this should be limited to a few shirts and a few shorts)
a first aid kit
toothbrush and toothpaste (small, paste can be shared)
a rain coat
2 water bottles and a bladder (hydration is one of the most important things when hiking)
sandals (after a day of hiking miles and miles your feet need a break, however they should still be protective)
extra hiking socks (will be worth it, it’s important to keep you feet dry, there’s only one thing worse than cold, wet, soar feet... wet toilet paper)
toilet paper IN A WATERPROOF BAG (there’s nothing as useless as wet toilet paper)
however there’s nothing more useful than duct tape(take it off the roll to save space)
a cell phone (for emergencies so you wont use it often)
a small wash cloth (to wipe down with and it comes in handy as a hot pad or “oven mitt”)
a bandana and hat (keeps you cool and keeps the sun out of your eyes)
sun screen (the most common injury on the AT is sunburn, it sucks and can get nasty)
bug-spray (for those Westnile infested states like West Virginia)
cards (you get bored, truly is a sanity item)
deodorant (many hikers smell bad because of the lack of showers, deodorant makes the smell a little more bearable)
a comb or brush (after a while hikers just seem to stop brushing their hair so a small brush or comb would be better)
a small stove (it’s easier to cook food on a stove and the heat can be more controlled than on a fire, also comes in handy when there’s rain)
matches (mans tool to create fire, and light a stove)
a water purifier (back in the day the water may have been safe to drink but today there are all sorts of bacteria in that water than can make you spend you day in the privy or worse)
and finally ONE LUXERY ITEM (this is the item that a hiker can bring for their enjoyment, like a book, teddy bear, ball, extra clothes, or an umbrella)
(Berger, Karen. Backpacking and Hiking )
What you bring depends on how long your going to be out on the trail and what season you’ll be hiking in. But what should you bring in general?
dehydrated or food that doesn't need to be refrigerated,
a lightweight sleeping bag (this can take up a lot of room, stores like REI and EMS sell special light weight bags that barely take up any space),
a tent (depending on how many people there are you can split up the load, make sure it has a rain fly),
a mess-kit (to cook your food in)
a few clothing items (this should be limited to a few shirts and a few shorts)
a first aid kit
toothbrush and toothpaste (small, paste can be shared)
a rain coat
2 water bottles and a bladder (hydration is one of the most important things when hiking)
sandals (after a day of hiking miles and miles your feet need a break, however they should still be protective)
extra hiking socks (will be worth it, it’s important to keep you feet dry, there’s only one thing worse than cold, wet, soar feet... wet toilet paper)
toilet paper IN A WATERPROOF BAG (there’s nothing as useless as wet toilet paper)
however there’s nothing more useful than duct tape(take it off the roll to save space)
a cell phone (for emergencies so you wont use it often)
a small wash cloth (to wipe down with and it comes in handy as a hot pad or “oven mitt”)
a bandana and hat (keeps you cool and keeps the sun out of your eyes)
sun screen (the most common injury on the AT is sunburn, it sucks and can get nasty)
bug-spray (for those Westnile infested states like West Virginia)
cards (you get bored, truly is a sanity item)
deodorant (many hikers smell bad because of the lack of showers, deodorant makes the smell a little more bearable)
a comb or brush (after a while hikers just seem to stop brushing their hair so a small brush or comb would be better)
a small stove (it’s easier to cook food on a stove and the heat can be more controlled than on a fire, also comes in handy when there’s rain)
matches (mans tool to create fire, and light a stove)
a water purifier (back in the day the water may have been safe to drink but today there are all sorts of bacteria in that water than can make you spend you day in the privy or worse)
and finally ONE LUXERY ITEM (this is the item that a hiker can bring for their enjoyment, like a book, teddy bear, ball, extra clothes, or an umbrella)
(Berger, Karen. Backpacking and Hiking )
What you bring depends on how long your going to be out on the trail and what season you’ll be hiking in. But what should you bring in general?
dehydrated or food that doesn't need to be refrigerated,
a lightweight sleeping bag (this can take up a lot of room, stores like REI and EMS sell special light weight bags that barely take up any space),
a tent (depending on how many people there are you can split up the load, make sure it has a rain fly),
a mess-kit (to cook your food in)
a few clothing items (this should be limited to a few shirts and a few shorts)
a first aid kit
toothbrush and toothpaste (small, paste can be shared)
a rain coat
2 water bottles and a bladder (hydration is one of the most important things when hiking)
sandals (after a day of hiking miles and miles your feet need a break, however they should still be protective)
extra hiking socks (will be worth it, it’s important to keep you feet dry, there’s only one thing worse than cold, wet, soar feet... wet toilet paper)
toilet paper IN A WATERPROOF BAG (there’s nothing as useless as wet toilet paper)
however there’s nothing more useful than duct tape(take it off the roll to save space)
a cell phone (for emergencies so you wont use it often)
a small wash cloth (to wipe down with and it comes in handy as a hot pad or “oven mitt”)
a bandana and hat (keeps you cool and keeps the sun out of your eyes)
sun screen (the most common injury on the AT is sunburn, it sucks and can get nasty)
bug-spray (for those Westnile infested states like West Virginia)
cards (you get bored, truly is a sanity item)
deodorant (many hikers smell bad because of the lack of showers, deodorant makes the smell a little more bearable)
a comb or brush (after a while hikers just seem to stop brushing their hair so a small brush or comb would be better)
a small stove (it’s easier to cook food on a stove and the heat can be more controlled than on a fire, also comes in handy when there’s rain)
matches (mans tool to create fire, and light a stove)
a water purifier (back in the day the water may have been safe to drink but today there are all sorts of bacteria in that water than can make you spend you day in the privy or worse)
and finally ONE LUXERY ITEM (this is the item that a hiker can bring for their enjoyment, like a book, teddy bear, ball, extra clothes, or an umbrella)
(Berger, Karen. Backpacking and Hiking )
What you bring depends on how long your going to be out on the trail and what season you’ll be hiking in. But what should you bring in general?
dehydrated or food that doesn't need to be refrigerated,
a lightweight sleeping bag (this can take up a lot of room, stores like REI and EMS sell special light weight bags that barely take up any space),
a tent (depending on how many people there are you can split up the load, make sure it has a rain fly),
a mess-kit (to cook your food in)
a few clothing items (this should be limited to a few shirts and a few shorts)
a first aid kit
toothbrush and toothpaste (small, paste can be shared)
a rain coat
2 water bottles and a bladder (hydration is one of the most important things when hiking)
sandals (after a day of hiking miles and miles your feet need a break, however they should still be protective)
extra hiking socks (will be worth it, it’s important to keep you feet dry, there’s only one thing worse than cold, wet, soar feet... wet toilet paper)
toilet paper IN A WATERPROOF BAG (there’s nothing as useless as wet toilet paper)
however there’s nothing more useful than duct tape(take it off the roll to save space)
a cell phone (for emergencies so you wont use it often)
a small wash cloth (to wipe down with and it comes in handy as a hot pad or “oven mitt”)
a bandana and hat (keeps you cool and keeps the sun out of your eyes)
sun screen (the most common injury on the AT is sunburn, it sucks and can get nasty)
bug-spray (for those Westnile infested states like West Virginia)
cards (you get bored, truly is a sanity item)
deodorant (many hikers smell bad because of the lack of showers, deodorant makes the smell a little more bearable)
a comb or brush (after a while hikers just seem to stop brushing their hair so a small brush or comb would be better)
a small stove (it’s easier to cook food on a stove and the heat can be more controlled than on a fire, also comes in handy when there’s rain)
matches (mans tool to create fire, and light a stove)
a water purifier (back in the day the water may have been safe to drink but today there are all sorts of bacteria in that water than can make you spend you day in the privy or worse)
and finally ONE LUXERY ITEM (this is the item that a hiker can bring for their enjoyment, like a book, teddy bear, ball, extra clothes, or an umbrella)
(Berger, Karen. Backpacking and Hiking )
What you bring depends on how long your going to be out on the trail and what season you’ll be hiking in. But what should you bring in general?
dehydrated or food that doesn't need to be refrigerated,
a lightweight sleeping bag (this can take up a lot of room, stores like REI and EMS sell special light weight bags that barely take up any space),
a tent (depending on how many people there are you can split up the load, make sure it has a rain fly),
a mess-kit (to cook your food in)
a few clothing items (this should be limited to a few shirts and a few shorts)
a first aid kit
toothbrush and toothpaste (small, paste can be shared)
a rain coat
2 water bottles and a bladder (hydration is one of the most important things when hiking)
sandals (after a day of hiking miles and miles your feet need a break, however they should still be protective)
extra hiking socks (will be worth it, it’s important to keep you feet dry, there’s only one thing worse than cold, wet, soar feet... wet toilet paper)
toilet paper IN A WATERPROOF BAG (there’s nothing as useless as wet toilet paper)
however there’s nothing more useful than duct tape(take it off the roll to save space)
a cell phone (for emergencies so you wont use it often)
a small wash cloth (to wipe down with and it comes in handy as a hot pad or “oven mitt”)
a bandana and hat (keeps you cool and keeps the sun out of your eyes)
sun screen (the most common injury on the AT is sunburn, it sucks and can get nasty)
bug-spray (for those Westnile infested states like West Virginia)
cards (you get bored, truly is a sanity item)
deodorant (many hikers smell bad because of the lack of showers, deodorant makes the smell a little more bearable)
a comb or brush (after a while hikers just seem to stop brushing their hair so a small brush or comb would be better)
a small stove (it’s easier to cook food on a stove and the heat can be more controlled than on a fire, also comes in handy when there’s rain)
matches (mans tool to create fire, and light a stove)
a water purifier (back in the day the water may have been safe to drink but today there are all sorts of bacteria in that water than can make you spend you day in the privy or worse)
and finally ONE LUXERY ITEM (this is the item that a hiker can bring for their enjoyment, like a book, teddy bear, ball, extra clothes, or an umbrella)
(Berger, Karen. Backpacking and Hiking )
What you bring depends on how long your going to be out on the trail and what season you’ll be hiking in. But what should you bring in general?
dehydrated or food that doesn't need to be refrigerated,
a lightweight sleeping bag (this can take up a lot of room, stores like REI and EMS sell special light weight bags that barely take up any space),
a tent (depending on how many people there are you can split up the load, make sure it has a rain fly),
a mess-kit (to cook your food in)
a few clothing items (this should be limited to a few shirts and a few shorts)
a first aid kit
toothbrush and toothpaste (small, paste can be shared)
a rain coat
2 water bottles and a bladder (hydration is one of the most important things when hiking)
sandals (after a day of hiking miles and miles your feet need a break, however they should still be protective)
extra hiking socks (will be worth it, it’s important to keep you feet dry, there’s only one thing worse than cold, wet, soar feet... wet toilet paper)
toilet paper IN A WATERPROOF BAG (there’s nothing as useless as wet toilet paper)
however there’s nothing more useful than duct tape(take it off the roll to save space)
a cell phone (for emergencies so you wont use it often)
a small wash cloth (to wipe down with and it comes in handy as a hot pad or “oven mitt”)
a bandana and hat (keeps you cool and keeps the sun out of your eyes)
sun screen (the most common injury on the AT is sunburn, it sucks and can get nasty)
bug-spray (for those Westnile infested states like West Virginia)
cards (you get bored, truly is a sanity item)
deodorant (many hikers smell bad because of the lack of showers, deodorant makes the smell a little more bearable)
a comb or brush (after a while hikers just seem to stop brushing their hair so a small brush or comb would be better)
a small stove (it’s easier to cook food on a stove and the heat can be more controlled than on a fire, also comes in handy when there’s rain)
matches (mans tool to create fire, and light a stove)
a water purifier (back in the day the water may have been safe to drink but today there are all sorts of bacteria in that water than can make you spend you day in the privy or worse)
and finally ONE LUXERY ITEM (this is the item that a hiker can bring for their enjoyment, like a book, teddy bear, ball, extra clothes, or an umbrella)
(Berger, Karen. Backpacking and Hiking )
What you bring depends on how long your going to be out on the trail and what season you’ll be hiking in. But what should you bring in general?
dehydrated or food that doesn't need to be refrigerated,
a lightweight sleeping bag (this can take up a lot of room, stores like REI and EMS sell special light weight bags that barely take up any space),
a tent (depending on how many people there are you can split up the load, make sure it has a rain fly),
a mess-kit (to cook your food in)
a few clothing items (this should be limited to a few shirts and a few shorts)
a first aid kit
toothbrush and toothpaste (small, paste can be shared)
a rain coat
2 water bottles and a bladder (hydration is one of the most important things when hiking)
sandals (after a day of hiking miles and miles your feet need a break, however they should still be protective)
extra hiking socks (will be worth it, it’s important to keep you feet dry, there’s only one thing worse than cold, wet, soar feet... wet toilet paper)
toilet paper IN A WATERPROOF BAG (there’s nothing as useless as wet toilet paper)
however there’s nothing more useful than duct tape(take it off the roll to save space)
a cell phone (for emergencies so you wont use it often)
a small wash cloth (to wipe down with and it comes in handy as a hot pad or “oven mitt”)
a bandana and hat (keeps you cool and keeps the sun out of your eyes)
sun screen (the most common injury on the AT is sunburn, it sucks and can get nasty)
bug-spray (for those Westnile infested states like West Virginia)
cards (you get bored, truly is a sanity item)
deodorant (many hikers smell bad because of the lack of showers, deodorant makes the smell a little more bearable)
a comb or brush (after a while hikers just seem to stop brushing their hair so a small brush or comb would be better)
a small stove (it’s easier to cook food on a stove and the heat can be more controlled than on a fire, also comes in handy when there’s rain)
matches (mans tool to create fire, and light a stove)
a water purifier (back in the day the water may have been safe to drink but today there are all sorts of bacteria in that water than can make you spend you day in the privy or worse)
and finally ONE LUXERY ITEM (this is the item that a hiker can bring for their enjoyment, like a book, teddy bear, ball, extra clothes, or an umbrella)
(Berger, Karen. Backpacking and Hiking )
What you bring depends on how long your going to be out on the trail and what season you’ll be hiking in. But what should you bring in general?
dehydrated or food that doesn't need to be refrigerated,
a lightweight sleeping bag (this can take up a lot of room, stores like REI and EMS sell special light weight bags that barely take up any space),
a tent (depending on how many people there are you can split up the load, make sure it has a rain fly),
a mess-kit (to cook your food in)
a few clothing items (this should be limited to a few shirts and a few shorts)
a first aid kit
toothbrush and toothpaste (small, paste can be shared)
a rain coat
2 water bottles and a bladder (hydration is one of the most important things when hiking)
sandals (after a day of hiking miles and miles your feet need a break, however they should still be protective)
extra hiking socks (will be worth it, it’s important to keep you feet dry, there’s only one thing worse than cold, wet, soar feet... wet toilet paper)
toilet paper IN A WATERPROOF BAG (there’s nothing as useless as wet toilet paper)
however there’s nothing more useful than duct tape(take it off the roll to save space)
a cell phone (for emergencies so you wont use it often)
a small wash cloth (to wipe down with and it comes in handy as a hot pad or “oven mitt”)
a bandana and hat (keeps you cool and keeps the sun out of your eyes)
sun screen (the most common injury on the AT is sunburn, it sucks and can get nasty)
bug-spray (for those Westnile infested states like West Virginia)
cards (you get bored, truly is a sanity item)
deodorant (many hikers smell bad because of the lack of showers, deodorant makes the smell a little more bearable)
a comb or brush (after a while hikers just seem to stop brushing their hair so a small brush or comb would be better)
a small stove (it’s easier to cook food on a stove and the heat can be more controlled than on a fire, also comes in handy when there’s rain)
matches (mans tool to create fire, and light a stove)
a water purifier (back in the day the water may have been safe to drink but today there are all sorts of bacteria in that water than can make you spend you day in the privy or worse)
and finally ONE LUXERY ITEM (this is the item that a hiker can bring for their enjoyment, like a book, teddy bear, ball, extra clothes, or an umbrella)
(Berger, Karen. Backpacking and Hiking )
Berger, Karen. Backpacking and Hiking
Berger, Karen. Backpacking and Hiking
Berger, Karen. Backpacking and Hiking
Berger, Karen. Backpacking and Hiking
Berger, Karen. Backpacking and Hiking
responsibilities and courtesies of the trail
terrain
wildlife
cautions
shelters and towns
signs
water sources
trail magic- what is it, why it’s awesome
There are 165,000 blazes along the length of the Trail.
These trail blazers help hikers stay on the path
photo: www.blueridgeoutdoors.com/2009/03/
There are 165,000 blazes along the length of the Trail.
These trail blazers help hikers stay on the path
photo: www.blueridgeoutdoors.com/2009/03/
There are 165,000 blazes along the length of the Trail.
These trail blazers help hikers stay on the path
photo: www.blueridgeoutdoors.com/2009/03/
There are 165,000 blazes along the length of the Trail.
These trail blazers help hikers stay on the path
photo: www.blueridgeoutdoors.com/2009/03/
There are 165,000 blazes along the length of the Trail.
These trail blazers help hikers stay on the path
photo: www.blueridgeoutdoors.com/2009/03/
There are 165,000 blazes along the length of the Trail.
These trail blazers help hikers stay on the path
photo: www.blueridgeoutdoors.com/2009/03/
There are 165,000 blazes along the length of the Trail.
These trail blazers help hikers stay on the path
photo: www.blueridgeoutdoors.com/2009/03/
There are 165,000 blazes along the length of the Trail.
These trail blazers help hikers stay on the path
photo: www.blueridgeoutdoors.com/2009/03/
There are 165,000 blazes along the length of the Trail.
These trail blazers help hikers stay on the path
photo: www.blueridgeoutdoors.com/2009/03/
There are 165,000 blazes along the length of the Trail.
These trail blazers help hikers stay on the path
photo: www.blueridgeoutdoors.com/2009/03/
There are 165,000 blazes along the length of the Trail.
These trail blazers help hikers stay on the path
photo: www.blueridgeoutdoors.com/2009/03/
There are 165,000 blazes along the length of the Trail.
These trail blazers help hikers stay on the path
photo: www.blueridgeoutdoors.com/2009/03/
Houses more than 2,000 occurrences of rare, threatened, endangered, and sensitive plant and animal species at about 535 sites.