Choosing a Trail
Depending on which trail you choose, an end-to-end hike can take anywhere from several days to months. The Appalachian Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, and Continental Divide Trail are the most popular – and longest – trails to thru-hike, while plenty of other trails await if a shorter hike is more your speed. In addition to trail length, consider when you’ll be going, how you’ll get there, and what the weather will look like. Once you’ve decided on your trail, purchase a physical map or download a smartphone app that provides offline navigating, making sure to pack a portable charger.
Pack Light
Since you’ll be carrying all your gear, it’s best to pack as light as possible. Consider the weight you’d be comfortable carrying – a good rule of thumb is to keep your pack at no more than 30 pounds – and then tally the weight of your gear as you decide what to bring. Many outdoor outlets sell extra lightweight gear, such as tents and sleeping bags, made especially for backpacking.
Figuring Out Food
For shorter hikes, you can plan to pack all of the food you’ll need. For especially long hikes, you can either ship food to post offices along the trail or plan to resupply at grocery stores as you go. In either case, calorie-dense and protein-rich foods are the best fuel, since hiking burns an average of 400 calories each hour. Granola bars, nuts, dried fruit, and jerky are popular snacks, while freeze-dried meals are a lightweight choice that can be rehydrated come mealtime. When it comes to staying hydrated, a water filtration device can turn natural water sources into safe drinking water.
Dress for Success
Opt for clothing that is comfortable, breathable, and adds little weight to your pack. Layers are a great way to stay cool during the daytime and warm at night, while rain gear will ensure you’re prepared for unpredictable weather. Invest in a durable pair of hiking boots or trail runners, and plenty of high-quality socks, and be sure to break shoes in ahead of time for a smoother start to your journey.
Training for Foot Travel
Long-distance hikes involve traversing miles of sometimes rugged or hilly terrain by foot while carrying extra weight in a pack. Setting aside time to train and focus on personal fitness ahead of your hike will help prepare your body for the physical challenge of continuous foot travel.
Leave No Trace
During any backpacking excursion, it’s important to not disturb the land and wildlife. Bring a disposable bag to pack trash in, and if you’re hiking in bear country, store food and scented items away from your campsite in a bear bag.
Enjoy the Journey
While planning is an important part of any long-distance hike, it’s also a great way to get excited about the adventure ahead. Whether you’re about to spend a week off the grid or begin a months-long excursion, prepare to enjoy the unforgettable journey that awaits.