The Trail

This is a map of the full length of the trail, all the way from Springer Mountain, Georgia to Katahdin Mountain, Maine. 

The trail is over 2100 miles long, with measurements varying year to year depending upon route changes and whatnot.  Current estimates put it at about 2160 miles. 

A large version of the map is also available, however, it is over 1 meg in size. 

You can also click on the map to see detailed versions that correspond roughly to the sections represented by the official AT guides.

Related Information

Appalachian Trail Conference - The ATC is the overseeing organization responsible for the overall development of the trail.  Their headquarters are in Harper's Ferry, WV. 

Potomac Appalachian Trail Club - One of the many regional trail clubs that take responsibility for trail maintenance.  This club, the PATC, takes care of the AT through the SNP and through MD. 

Book Recommendations

A Walk in the Woods:  Rediscovering America on the Appalachian Trail
by Bill Bryson

- A humorous story about failure and success with the AT.    Not the book to look towards for inspiration, but rather just a funny and informative story about two guys trying to figure out what the trail is all about.  While they don't quite get in synch with the trail and never complete the trail, they still find out what it means to them and reach at least some personal comfort in their achievement.

Walking Home:  A Woman's Pilgrimage on the Appalachian Trail
by Kelly Winters

Don't let the title fool you into thinking this is a book just for women.  This was a very enjoyable read, providing the reader with a real flavor for the trail.  Though the "trail magic" bit gets a bit hokey and unbelievable at times, this is still a great story about discovering oneself on the trail.

On the Beaten Path:  An Appalachian Pilgrimage
by Robert Alden Rubin

Of the personal accounts of the trail I have read thus far, this is my favorite.  Rubin is a true writer, his words flowing beautifully from page to page.  As the Rhymin' Worm he experiences  and shares the unique culture of the trail during his quest to understand why is there.   Highly recommended.