4 The Longest Trail

Listen carefully. Don’t answer too quickly. At least, don't say “yes” too soon. A friend might ask, “Want to take a hike?” You should say, “Where?” If he replies, “The entire Appalachian Trail,” take warning. Here's why.

The trail is the longest marked footpath in the world. It starts at Springer Mountain, Georgia. It winds along the crest of the mountains. It goes through 14 states. It ends at Mt. Katahdin, Maine, As the crow flies, this is about 2,200 miles. But when walked, the trail is 2,600 miles. If done nonstop, it takes about six months.

Most hikers begin from Springer Mountain. They start around April 1. This is why. The snow has probably melted in the south. But there may still be snow in the north. By the time they reach Maine, the snow will be long gone. What's the chance of making it nonstop? Here are the data. About 1,500 attempt it each year. About

300 make it. It is a great challenge.

Careful planning is necessary. There are problems to solve. The biggest is weight on one’s back. Too many hikers start out with too much. Wise ones don’t carry food. They send packages to post offices along the way. There are no camp fires allowed. Some shelters are near the path. But the trail is crowded. It is hard to find space. A perfect tent is necessary. And it rains a lot. Great rain gear is needed. It should be light.

Benton MacKaye founded the trail. The first part was cut in 1922. It is cared

for by volunteers in each state. Do you plan to go? Read lots of books by people who've done it.