Plan and Prepare
Hiker Resource Library
A collection of resources for planning a safe, healthy, and responsible experience on the Appalachian Trail.
Plan and Prepare
Register Your Hike
Planning an overnight, multi-day, or thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail? Register your hike using our ATCamp system to help choose a date and starting location that will help you avoid crowded trailheads and campsites.
Trail Updates
Keep up-to-date with the latest alerts and conditions on the Appalachian Trail.
Photo courtesy of “Weathercarrot”
Hiking Basics
Get the information you need to help ensure your next A.T. adventure is safe and enjoyable.
Bear Canister Lending Program – Georgia and Vermont Section Hikers
Planning a backpacking trip in Georgia or Vermont? Try a bear canister for free through these simple lending programs.
Check Out Our Hiker Prep Series
Prepare for your upcoming A.T. hike with these tips and checklists.
View Our Hiker Prep Webinar Series
View conversations with seasoned A.T. thru-hikers and ATC staff that will equip you with the skills needed for safe, fun A.T. adventures!
The A.T. Ethic: Hiking Sustainably
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Trail Karma
If you take care of the Trail, the Trail will take care of you, that's Trail Karma!
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Leave No Trace
Please do your part by learning these practices and encourage others to learn about and adopt these techniques which “Leave No Trace” on the Appalachian Trail.
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Trail Magic
Trail magic has charmed A.T. long-distance hikers for decades, surfacing as serendipitous experiences. Trail magic just happens!
Finish Well at Baxter State Park
Celebrate the history and significance of Katahdin and your thru-hike by following these guidelines while hiking to the northern terminus of the Appalachian Trail.
Report a Successful Hike of the Entire Appalachian Trail
Section hikers and thru-hikers who complete the entire A.T. can report their journeys to us by filling out the 2,000-miler application. Those who submit their applications will be added to our roster of 2,000-milers and will receive a certificate of recognition, an A.T. patch, an accompanying 2,000-miler “rocker” patch, and be featured in the Spring issue of A.T. Journeys magazine. Click below to view our 2,000-miler recognition policy and submit your application today.
Alternate Trails
The Appalachian Trail can be a crowded place during certain times of the year, making it difficult to minimize your impact on fragile Trail environments and find the solitude you may be seeking. This list highlights alternative trails that typically offer less-crowded campsites and hiking conditions.
Report an Incident
While the Appalachian Trail is a relatively safe place to visit, that does not mean that there are not potential dangers while you are hiking or camping. If you see something, say something — this will help us keep the A.T. as safe as possible for our visitors.
COVID-19 Safety
Important tips for ensuring you and other hikers minimize the risk of spreading COVID-19 on the Appalachian Trail or in trailside communities.
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About the ATC
We are the stewards of the world’s longest hiking-only footpath, the Appalachian Trail.
Stay Informed
Latest News
Read the latest news and updates about the Appalachian Trail and our work to protect it.
BY CAITLIN MILLER
11 Easy Ways to Improve Your Leave No Trace Footprint
A collection of simple and seemingly small ways you can practice Leave No Trace and help protect the A.T. experience.