Appalachian Trail 2003 Hiker Survey

The majority of survey responses we received were from northbound thru-hikers, so these results are therefore representative of their experiences. To date we have received 49 replies to our Appalachian Trail survey. According to the ATC, there were 503 hikers that reported finishing the AT in 2003.

Backpacking Gear - Continued

Info on thru-hiker Seasonal Gear Changes coming soon. Please check back in a few days.

Backpack Weight

Trimming your pack weight while on the Trail can be quite a challenge, but after lugging 50-plus pounds up a mountain, it is one that hikers are willing to accept. You'd be surprised what you can do without. Lowering backpack weight will only increase your enjoyment of the hike, by allowing you to move faster more comfortably.

Highest Pack Weights (in pounds)
21 - 25	2%
26 - 30	6%
31 - 35	13%
36 - 40	11%
41 - 45	24%
46 - 50	20%
51 - 55	6%
56 - 60	9%
Over 60	9%
Lowest Pack Weights (in pounds)
10 - 15	2%
16 - 20	22%
21 - 25	17%
26 - 30	13%
31 - 35	24%
36 - 40	20%
41 - 45	2%