The Appalachian National Scenic Trail — commonly known as the Appalachian Trail or simply “the A.T.” — is the longest hiking-only footpath in the world, measuring roughly 2,190 miles in length. The Trail travels through fourteen states along the crests and valleys of the Appalachian Mountain Range, from its southern terminus at Springer Mountain, Georgia, to the northern terminus at Katahdin, Maine.
More than 3 million people visit the Trail every year and over 3,000 people attempt to “thru-hike” the entire footpath in a single year. People from across the globe are drawn to the A.T. for a variety of reasons, such as reconnecting with nature, escaping the stress of city life, meeting new people or deepening old friendships, or experiencing a simpler life.
Completed in 1937, the A.T. is a unit of the National Park System. It is managed under a unique partnership between the public and private sectors led by the Appalachian Trail Conservancy.
The mission of the Appalachian Trail Conservancy since 1925, is to protect, manage, and advocate for the Appalachian National Scenic Trail.
“The Appalachian Trail is more than just a path; it is a symbol of our commitment to conservation and a testament to the power of collective action. ‘As we embark on our next century, we look forward to working with you to keep the Trail alive for generations to come.”
Many attempts have been made to run the tough 2,190-mile Appalachian Trail between Springer Mountain in Georgia and Mt. Katahdin in Maine, crossing 14 states of the US and some of the oldest mountains in the world.
Joe McConaughy, nicknamed “Stringbean”, has held the Appalachian Trail Record since September 2017. He started on June, 16, and completed the challenge on August 31, without any support in 45 days, 12 hours, 15 minutes, breaking Karl Meltzer’s record of the previous year.
Karl kept hold of his supported speed record of 45 days, 22 hours, and 38 minutes for just 1 year. It was his third attempt to complete the challenge. Karl had been crewing Scott Jurek when he set the Appalachian Trail Record in 2015. This experience helped Karl to succeed in his own attempt in 2016. Scott returned the favor and joined the support team of Karl as well.
After Pharr Davis set the Women’s FKT Appalachian Trail Record in 2008 she returned in 2011 to claim the overall (male or female) fastest known time on the “AT”. By sleeping next to the trail and running 16 hours a day she was capable of maintaining an average of 47 miles per day. Her husband was her crew.
Since 2015 Heather Anderson holds the female self-supported Fastest Known Time (FKT) on the Appalachian Trail, carrying her stuff for 54 days, 7 hours and 48 minutes without getting any assistance.