Take the Appalachian Trail hiker’s pledge and help ensure the A.T. experience continues to benefit us all for generations to come.

As an A.T. hiker, I will lead by example and:

  • Leave the A.T. better than I found it – every hiker makes a difference.
  • Carefully use existing campsites and not build new ones.
  • Bury my poop in a 6-to-8-inch-deep hole far away from camp and water sources, and help keep privies clean when I use them.
  • Pack out all my trash and food waste, and help pack out the trash I find.
  • Protect wildlife by never letting animals get my food — bear canisters are the surest, most flexible food storage method.
  • Be respectful of all other A.T. hikers and visitors.
A.T. White Blaze with hiker in the background.

Tips for Maintaining Your Pledge to the Trail

Doing what’s right for the A.T. and those around you on the Trail is simple once you’re equipped with the knowledge and skills you need. Check out the sources below to help you begin your journey on the right foot.

Hiker Resource Library

Getting ready for an A.T. adventure? This library of resources will help you stay safe, healthy, and responsible on the Appalachian Trail.

Hiker Resource Library

Leave No Trace

Learn ways that you can help protect natural habitats and preserve the one-of-a-kind Appalachian Trail hiking experience.

Leave No Trace

Register Your Hike on ATCamp

Prevent crowding, stay informed, and plan ahead. Register your thru-hike or section hike on ATCamp.org.

Register Your Hike

Campsite Selection: The Secret to Happy Campers

Where you choose to set up camp for the night maximizes your enjoyment and safety, and reduces your impacts to the A.T.

Selecting a Campsite

Don’t Feed the Bears

Storing your food properly on the Appalachian Trail will help keep you, your supplies, and wildlife along the Trail safe.

Bear Safety Tips

Backcountry Food Storage

Storing your food properly is your best defense against a negative encounter with bears or other A.T. wildlife.

Food Storage