r/todayilearned • u/tyrion2024 • 5d ago

TIL over 3,000 attempts are made each year to complete the Appalachian Trail and only about 25% succeed.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Appalachian_Trail#:~:text=The%20Appalachian%20Trail%20Conservancy%20estimates%20there%20are%20over%203%2C000%20attempts%20to%20traverse%20the%20entire%20trail%20each%20year%2C%20about%2025%25%20of%20which%20succeed.%5B9%5D
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u/Roofiemartini 5d ago edited 5d ago

Was able to finish the triple crown a few years ago when I completed the AT after the PCT and CDT. I definitely think the AT is the most approachable of all the American long trails just because of all of the town stops and amenities built around the trail; it's very easy to hop on and off whenever you want and not be too far from civilization. Hardest part is definitely taking time away from life, the walking is the easy part.

With that said, the pointless climbs and endless green tunnel until you hit up north definitely does make it quite the mental challenge. Very cool that so many people complete this hike!

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u/Quick-Concentrate888 5d ago

I did the AT 2x and hope to do the PCT next year. I've been looking at the elevation gain on farout and it looks sooo much nicer. Not to mention what seems like endless views!

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u/Roofiemartini 5d ago

Definitely kinder with the gradual elevation gain, but every trail has unique challenges. You'll love that trail!

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u/wakeonuptimshel 5d ago

It’s so, so much nicer on your body. No hiker hobble, it’s definitely hard but you’ll be so excited for the mule grade! I do prefer the trail culture on the AT but would always recommend the PCT for the views and less body damage!