Thru Hiker is the term given to adventurers traversing the entire length of the Appalachian Trail in one continuous journey. Recent college graduates, retirees, dropouts, and other wanderers pack the bare essentials on their back and trek over 2100 miles from Georgia to Maine. Leaving behind their given names, thru hikers take up trail names. They sleep in basic shelters along the trail or in tents they carry on their backs. Many start out solo and collect into groups along the way.

Franklin, NC is 100 miles from the trail’s start in Georgia. Most hikers have been on the trail for two weeks when they reach the crossing at Winding Stair. From here, it is an easy hitch into town to re-supply, check mail, and perhaps enjoy a hot shower. Then, it’s back to the trail for months of tough terrain through the Smoky Mountains and up into New England. Although the trail is a strenuous physical test, it takes great mental stamina to finish as a Thru Hiker.

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Clouds cover mountaintops
A man uses hiking poles while on a walk
A tree is reflected in a puddle
A man with dreadlocks smiles at the camera
Two men attempt to hitchhike while on a hike
Three hikers walk along the side of the road
A man gives directions to hikers
Shoes walking across a stream
A man rests with his head against a wall
A group stands outside a shelter with clothes hanging on a line
A man stares at a burning camp stove
Two men look at a map using a headlamp

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