What kind of people hike the entire Appalachian Trail?

When I did my thru-hike in 2015, I was in a demographic minority, in terms of age: I turned 40 on the Trail, and I hiked it with my Dad (who turned 67). read more

I hiked the entire Appalachian Trail as a North-bounder in 2013. People come from different regions of the USA (mostly East Coast) and from other countries such as Germany. The rate of men to women is probably around 1 women in 5 men. The age range is predominantly mid-twenties to early 30s, but there are still others in 40s, 50s, 60s, and 70s. read more

THE APPALACHIAN TRAIL is the longest hiking-only footpath in America — and with 2,187 miles of trail, more than 250 shelters, and an overall elevation gain equivalent to climbing Mount Everest 16 times, it earns that title. read more

The number of people hiking the entire Trail has risen dramatically over the years. From 1936 to 1969, only 59 completions are recorded. In 1970, the numbers began to rise. Ten people completed the Trail in 1970, including Ed Garvey, whose thru-hike was well-publicized. read more