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The Appalachian Trail
The Appalachian Trail is the longest continual footpath in the world, traversing some of the most scenic beauty of the eastern U.S. from Georgia to Maine. The 2,150 mile trail began as a vision of planner-forester Benton MacKaye in 1921. Existing trails were linked and new sections carved from Rhododendron thickets, grassy balds and forests.
In 1968, the Appalachian Trail became the first "National Scenic Trail." Today it passes through fourteen states, eight national forests, six national park system units, sixty state parks and game lands and scores of small communities. The rugged and narrow footpath is marked by white blazes painted on rocks and trees. One hundred and fifty miles of this exceptionally scenic footpath pass through the Cherokee National Forest. It traverses areas with colloquial place-names like Lemon Gap, Buzzard Roost Ridge, Locust Pole Knob, Beauty spot, Jane Bald and a host of locations commemorating Appalachian family names.
Explore the Appalachian Trail by State
for more information...
Georgia, North Carolina and Tennessee Regional Office
160A Zillicoa Street
Asheville, NC 28801
Phone: 828.254.3708
Fax: 828.254.3754
E-mail: atc-soro@appalachiantrail.org
Monson Appalachian Trail Visitor Center
5 Main Street
Monson, ME 04464
Phone: 207.766.7091
E-mail: monsonvisitorcenter@appalachiantrail.org
Visitor Center Hours:
Open seasonally from June 7th to October 15th
Monday - Sunday
8 am - 11am, 1 pm - 5 pm
Appalachian Trail Conservancy Headquarters and Visitor Center
799 Washington Street
PO Box 807
Harpers Ferry, WV 25425-0807
304-535-6331
Visitor Center Hours:
Monday - Sunday
9 am - 5 pm
Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day
ATC membership:
membership@appalachiantrail.org
Trail and Hiking questions:
info@appalachiantrail.org
Safety
It is important to be well versed before exploring the backcountry. Here are a few basics to help you get started:
- Always hike with another person.
- Always bring a small flashlight.
- Always bring water.
- All water taken from the backcountry should be treated.
- Let someone know your route and return time.
- Wear appropriate shoes and clothing.
- Carry a small first aid kit.
Be informed on the weather and be prepared for quickly changing conditions. Always check current weather conditions.
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