Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Appalachian National Scenic Trail adventure.
The Appalachian Trail, or AT for short, is the longest hiking-only footpath in the world, extending across 14 states between Mount Katahdin in Maine and Springer Mountain in Georgia. Passing through eight different national forests, six national park units and numerous state parks means there are plenty of opportunities to explore, whether you're a casual day hiker or a thru-hiker set on conquering all 2,190 miles.
Although not the exact mid-point, Harpers Ferry, WV is considered to be the halfway marker along the trail with the headquarters of the Appalachian Trail Conservancy located nearby. If you're looking for the state with the largest portion of the path, head to Virginia where you'll find more than a quarter of the trail lies there. If it's elevation you desire, head for the highest point along the trail at Clingmans Dome in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which is situated 6,643 feet above sea level.
Besides hiking, points along the trail offer many chances for camping, picnicking, and wildlife viewing. Limited portions of the trail may also offer rock climbing, biking, horseback riding, and if you're visiting in the winter, snowshoeing and cross country skiing.
With more than 500 scenic access points, 250 shelters, 100 designated camp sites, and new options for camping on private land through Hipcamp its easy to see why the AT is always on top of any wanderer's bucket list. What are you waiting for? Get out there and explore one of the most diverse trails in the world!