How long does it take a beginner to hike the Appalachian Trail?

How long does it take to thru-hike the Appalachian Trail from start to finish? It takes the average person anywhere from 5-7 months, but experienced hikers going for fastest known times have completed the entire trail in under 50 days. Overall, 20\% of people who set out to thru-hike the AT will finish.

How many miles a day should you walk on the Appalachian Trail?

The average miles per day for a hiker on the A.T. is 12-16. Usually starting at a pace of 8-10 miles each day, and then slowly working upwards. Most will hit a few 20-25 mile days towards the end of their hike, but the average miles per day on the Appalachian Trail is 16.

Can you hike the Appalachian Trail with no money?

Appalachian Trail costs typically net around around $6,000 for thru-hikers. However, you can easily spend far more, usually because of a lack of budgeting, or less, if you maintain self-control and have a setback-free hike.

Where do you poop on the Appalachian Trail?

Bury it or go directly in a cathole. This hole should be six to eight inches deep, away from the trail, and 200 feet away from water, campsites, and shelters. Always carry a shmoo shovel (trowel) on the trail, and treat it well.

When to start the Appalachian Trail?

recommendations and considerations To avoid crowds and winter conditions, the optimal time to start a northbound thru-hike is the window between April 15 and the first week of May.

How long would it take to walk the entire Appalachian Trail?

The Appalachian Trail is about 2,190 miles of hiking-only footpath that traverses 14 U.S. states. It takes about 6 months and 5,000,000 steps to walk through the entire trail on a thru-hike. But you can enjoy the scenic trail on day hikes and multi-day hikes.

What states are on the Appalachian Trail?

Appalachian Trail. Most of the trail is in forest or wild lands, although some portions traverse towns, roads and farms. It passes through 14 states: Georgia, North Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine .

How much does it cost to hike the Appalachian Trail?

The Appalachian Trail is free for all to enjoy. No fees, memberships, or permits are required to walk on the Trail. However, the A.T. passes through numerous state and national parks, forests and public lands, a few of which charge fees or require permits or reservations to park or to stay overnight in shelters or campsites.