Posts
Examining the Thru-Hiker Dropout Rate: Survey Results
Ever since Zach Davis wrote Appalachian Trials and started the blog that became The Trek, our purpose has been to help long-distance backpackers
The Top Sleeping Pads on the Appalachian Trail: 2016 Thru-Hiker Survey
For the third year in a row, we asked Appalachian Trail thru-hikers and long-distance section hikers about the sleeping pads they used. Many of the
Stoves, Food, Water, and Illness on the Appalachian Trail: 2016 Thru-Hiker Survey
More so than with backpacking gear, food and water plans are different for each trail, because they depend on road access, prevalence of nearby
The Top Sleeping Bags on the Appalachian Trail: 2016 Thru-Hiker Survey
We surveyed one hundred eighty-eight section and thru-hikers who were on the Appalachian Trail (AT) in 2016. We asked about the sleeping bags and
The Top Tents and Hammocks on the Appalachian Trail: 2016 Thru-Hiker Survey
For the third year running, we surveyed long-distance hikers on the Appalachian Trail in 2016, regarding the shelter systems they used. This year, we
The Top Footwear on the Appalachian Trail: 2016 Thru-Hiker Survey
This is the third year in a row I have surveyed hikers about their footwear, and for the third time, it seems be the trickiest gear selection. Just
The Top Backpacks on the Appalachian Trail: 2016 AT Thru-Hiker Survey
Unless you're making the rest of us jealous by slackpacking the whole way, your backpack is one of the most important pieces of gear you take on a
The 2016 Appalachian Trail Thru-Hiker Survey: General Hiker Stats
For the third year now, we surveyed long-distance hikers who completed a section or thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail in 2016. This year, we
By the Numbers: Sleeping Pads on the Appalachian Trail
Also, check out the previous post covering breakdown of sleeping pads). Almost one third of hikers (30.7%) changed sleeping pad models at some
The Top Sleeping Bags on the Appalachian Trail
When I bought a sleeping bag for my thru-hike, I was incredibly overwhelmed. Synthetic fill is more water resistant, but natural down is more