The longest hiking-only trail in the US is the Appalachian National Scenic Trail, commonly known as the Appalachian Trail or simply “the A.T.”
Exploring America's Longest Hiking Footpath
Stretching across the eastern United States, the Appalachian Trail holds the distinguished title of the world's longest hiking-only footpath. This iconic trail offers a unique and challenging experience for long-distance hikers, passing through diverse landscapes and historical regions.
Key Characteristics of the Appalachian Trail
- Length: The Appalachian Trail measures approximately 2,190 miles (about 3,524 kilometers) in length. Its exact mileage can vary slightly year by year due to reroutes or maintenance.
- Designation: It is one of the original eleven National Scenic Trails in the United States, established under the National Trails System Act of 1968. This designation highlights its significant scenic, historic, natural, and cultural qualities.
- Exclusivity: Unlike many other long-distance trails that permit horses, bicycles, or motorized vehicles on certain sections, the A.T. is specifically designed and maintained for foot travel only, ensuring a consistent wilderness hiking experience. This makes it distinct from other long trails like the Pacific Crest Trail or Continental Divide Trail, which are multi-use in various segments.
- Route: The trail spans 14 states, from Springer Mountain in Georgia to Mount Katahdin in Maine, offering a continuous green corridor through the Appalachian Mountains.
States Traversed by the Appalachian Trail
The Appalachian Trail winds its way through a remarkable cross-section of Eastern US states, providing diverse terrain and cultural experiences. From south to north, these states include:
- Georgia
- North Carolina
- Tennessee
- Virginia
- West Virginia
- Maryland
- Pennsylvania
- New Jersey
- New York
- Connecticut
- Massachusetts
- Vermont
- New Hampshire
- Maine
The Appalachian Trail at a Glance
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Official Name | Appalachian National Scenic Trail |
| Common Name | Appalachian Trail (A.T.) |
| Type of Trail | Hiking-Only Footpath |
| Approximate Length | 2,190 miles (3,524 km) |
| Termini | Springer Mountain, Georgia (South) to Mount Katahdin, Maine (North) |
| States Traversed | 14 |
| Managing Organizations | The Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC) works in partnership with the National Park Service, U.S. Forest Service, state agencies, and thousands of volunteers. |
The dedication to maintaining the A.T. as a hiking-only path underscores its unique role in providing an immersive outdoor experience, free from other forms of transit. This makes it a premier destination for thru-hikers aiming to complete the entire trail in one continuous journey, as well as for section hikers and day hikers exploring shorter segments.
