As the world’s longest hiking only trail, The Appalachian Trail (affectionately referred to as the AT) traverses most of the eastern US. The AT runs from Mount Katahdin in Maine to Springer Mountain in northern Georgia. The AT first opened as a continuous trail in 1937. It is marked by iconic white blazes (one about every 70 feet). The actual length changes from year to year as the trail shifts and detours are added or removed. Each year, thousands attempt to hike the entire trail. Of those that finish, it takes an average of 165 days. The AT was the first trail to be named a National Scenic Trail by the National Trails System Act in 1968. Rights of way and government ownership protect more than 99 percent of the trail. The AT is maintained by over 4,000 volunteers.
~14 States ~2,200 Miles ~165 Days to Hike ~3 Million Annual Visitors
In 2021, the town of Clayton, in Rabun County, was designated as the 51st AT Community. As an AT Community, Clayton and Rabun County welcome hikers with special services such as drop off, pick up and retail discounts at participating locations. Hike the AT in Rabun County starting at Dick’s Creek Gap for stunning summit views and catching sight of Lake Burton nestled between rolling mountains near the horizon.
For more information visit Appalachian Trail News, Information, and Advice – AppalachianTrail.com
