Plan and Prepare

Hiker Preparation Series

Are you planning an A.T. hike?

Before heading out to the Appalachian Trail for your long-distance hike, check out our hiker preparation series for tips and checklists on how to have a safe and enjoyable A.T. experience.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

Preparing for Your A.T. adventures

View our helpful tips and guides designed to help you plan and prepare for your next Appalachian Trail visit.
BACK TO THE BASICS

Tips for Applying Leave No Trace to Hiking Adventures

By packing out trash, camping and traveling on durable surfaces and respecting wildlife, visitors can help make the Trail a better and safer place.
Respect Wildlife

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.
Where to Sleep

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.
PLAN AND PREPARE

#1 Priority: Safety on the A.T.

Before heading out on your next A.T. hike, make sure you have the equipment and knowledge you need to stay healthy and safe.
Trail Preparation

Your A.T. Adventure Awaits

Learn about the many ways you can help protect the A.T. experience and how you can have a safe, enjoyable visit to the Trail.
Plan and Prepare

Flip-Flops: An Alternative A.T. Thru-Hike

A.T. flip-flop thu-hikes offer multiple advantages over “traditional” northbound or southbound thru-hikes, including milder weather, more flexible time frames for completion, and starting journeys on more moderate terrain.
Plan and Prepare

Southbound A.T. Thru-Hikes: A Primer

Discover some of the special preparation needed to undertake a successful southbound thru-hike on the Appalachian Trail.