Hike America's Long Trails

We know. You've always wanted to hike a long trail. Lucky for you, we've got the comprehensive guides to make your dreams a reality. Check out the best sections and dayhikes along the AT, PCT and CDT. PLUS: See how four hikers beat the recession...by hiking through it.

Author:: BACKPACKER Editors
Publish date:: Apr 21, 2010
Updated on: Jun 12, 2017

Appalachian Trail Trip Planner

Pack Man: The AT Guru

PHOTO GALLERY: AT's Best Wildlife

Pacific Crest Trail Trip Planner

The Fastest Man on the PCT

Continental Divide Trail Trip Planner

CDT's Greatest Rivalry

PHOTO GALLERY: Best Readers Shots from the CDT

Thru-Hiking the Recession

Adventure Travel

Watch your step on Utah' Highline Trail. The nonstop views and rampant wildlife are distractingly spectacular. Plus: Gaze away on 9 more elevated hikes.

Stories

If land has a personality, then Vermont's 270-mile Long Trail is one moody, unpredictable way to hike through New England.

Stories

Want to boost your backcountry karma? Here are three places to hike–and give back.

Backpacker_Magazine_Shenandoah_National_Park

Skills

America's 100 Best Hikes–chosen by you.

Appalachian Trail

Ticking these three prestigious trails off your list is worth the time—but it'll take a lot of it.

Stories

The famed peaks of the Appalachian chain entice some 2,500 people to attempt the thru-hike each year.

Appalachian Trail

Dreaming of a truly long hike someday? Don't limit yourself to the famous options like the Appalachian Trail. Take this quick quiz to find out which trek is really right for you.