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
Updated:: Jun 12, 2017
Original:: Apr 21, 2010

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.

Stories

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

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.

Appalachian Trail

The upside to being downsized? Having time to hit the nation's long trails.

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.