The Appalachian Trail Conservancy recently released the results of their annual long-distance hiker survey, which offers a wealth of interesting insights and useful information, not only for aspiring thru-hikers but for day and weekend hikers as well. The ATC is the agency responsible for managing and advocating for the 2,200-mile national scenic trail from Georgia to Maine, in partnership with the National Park Service.
The No. 1 item that 2024 survey respondents agreed upon was the importance of solitude during their journeys. Camaraderie ranked high, too, but most hikers concurred that being out in nature, enjoying time alone amid the peace and quiet of the woods and mountains, and absorbing the many beautiful sights and sounds along the way (in stark contrast to the hubbub of their busy daily lives back at home) was paramount.
The ATC survey also highlights the top gaps in backpacking skills as identified by trail hikers. Many who begin their AT hikes are inexperienced; they start out with big dreams and a backpack full of new gear and learn the ropes as they go. In addition, the survey details poor behaviors that impact the trail experience for everybody. These can be attributed not only to a lack of knowledge but to plain and simple inconsideration.
Some 165,000 white blazes mark the AT route, along with a complement of directional signs. Even so, many hikers reported that their inexperience navigating with map and compass caused considerable difficulty over some stretches due to heavy fog, clouds and rain. Further, Hurricane Helene devastated the southeastern U.S. in September 2024, leaving a tangle of blowdowns in its wake and forcing many reroutes.
Crossing swollen streams and negotiating unbridged rivers — even under normal conditions — caused headaches for last year’s hikers. Maine’s trail section, for example, is rife with these situations, especially in late spring and early fall. The Carrabassett, Piscataquis and Pleasant rivers, plus Big Wilson and Long Pond streams are well-known high water hazards requiring good judgment and solid technique for safe passage.
Food storage is a perennial issue on the trail. Mice, squirrels, chipmunks and raccoons, never mind black bears, are attracted to hiker food bags. The old days of hanging your food from a shelter rafter is no longer adequate for keeping these critters at bay. Bear canisters and bear-proof sacks, and the use of cable lines, bear poles and bear boxes where available, are a must for food protection, your safety, and that of the animals.
Water treatment and toilet hygiene are still hot topics. Most hikers carry a water filter or purification drops or tablets, but many remain skeptical about their effectiveness. These tools, however, remain the best hedges against giardia and other water-borne illnesses. As for pooping in the woods, there’s no excuse for leaving an unsightly, unhealthy mess. A standard kit includes TP, wipes, hand sanitizer and a small trowel.
Pet peeves are many among AT hikers, and litter ranks at the top of the list. An errant candy bar wrapper from a hiker’s pocket can be excused (sort of), but not trash discarded in the firepit or the privy vault. And it’s all too common to find gallon zip-close bags of garbage left in lean-tos or at road crossings. Exposed toilet paper and excrement are big offenders. Bury your waste, please, as deep as you can. Some backcountry areas require you to pack out your TP, a good idea on heavily-trafficked trails.
Graffiti is a problem that boggles the mind. Who carries a felt marker in their backpack? Or stickers? It defies logic. But lo and behold, trail signs, shelter walls, road signs, privy walls — any blank space available to a scribbling Kilroy — seems to get defaced. It’s ugly. But worse, it’s vandalism and cannot be tolerated.
Finally, unleashed dogs are a concern for the safety of other hikers and wildlife. Pet owners: you know what to do, thank you. It’s another mindful part of the whole picture of respecting others and the natural world that contributes to a pleasant and memorable trail experience for all.
The ATC provides an abundance of resources and tips for prospective and seasoned hikers alike through their “Hiker Prep Series.” Learn more at appalachiantrail.org.
Carey Kish of Mount Desert Island is a Triple Crown hiker, freelance writer and author of three hiking guides. Connect with Carey on Facebook and Instagram and at [email protected].
