If you’re a hiker, chances are you’ve at least heard of thru hiking. But what exactly is thru hiking? In short, thru hiking is the act of hiking a long-distance trail from end to end in one continuous journey. But there’s so much more to it than that! Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about thru hiking, from the gear you’ll need to the best trails in the country.
What is Thru Hiking?
As we mentioned, thru hiking is the act of hiking a long-distance trail from end to end. Thru hikers typically start at one trailhead and hike until they reach the other end of the trail. However, some hikers will choose to hike a trail from beginning to end and then turn around and hike all the way back to where they started (this is known as a “yo-yo”).
Thru hikes can range in length from just a few hundred miles to over 2,000 miles. The most popular thru hikes in the United States include the Appalachian Trail, the Pacific Crest Trail, and the Continental Divide Trail.
What Gear Do I Need for a Thru Hike?
One of the most important things you’ll need for a thru hike is a good pair of hiking boots. Hiking boots should be comfortable, waterproof, and provide good ankle support. You’ll also need a backpack large enough to carry all your gear, including extra clothes, food, water, and shelter.
Other essential gear includes a tent or hammock (depending on where you’ll be camping), a stove and cookware (if you plan on cooking your own meals), first-aid supplies, and maps of the area you’ll be hiking.
What Are Some Tips for Planning a Thru Hike?
If you’re planning on thru hiking any of the major trails in the United States, it’s important to start planning well in advance. This is especially true if you’re planning on thru hiking during peak season (generally late spring through early fall).
Some things you’ll need to consider when planning your thru hike include when you want to start your hike, how long you want to take to complete it, what kind of food and supplies you’ll need, and where you’ll camp along the way. It’s also important to make sure you have all the necessary permits before starting your hike.
Conclusion:
Now that you know everything there is to know about thru hiking, what are you waiting for? lace up your boots and hit the trail!