Listen carefully. Don't answer too quickly. At least, don't say "yes" too soon. A friend might ask, "Want to take a hike?" You should say, "Where?" If he replies "The entire Appalachian Trail (阿巴拉契亚国家步道)"，take warning. Here's why.
The trail is one of the longest marked footpaths in the world. It starts at Springer Mountain, Georgia. It winds (蜿蜒) along the top of the mountains. It goes through 14 states. It ends at Mount Katahdin, Maine. As the crow(乌鸦)flies, this is about 2,200 miles. But when walked, the trail is 2,600 miles. If you walk nonstop, it takes about six months to walk through the trail.
Most hikers begin from Springer Mountain. They start around April 1. This is why. The snow has probably melted (融化) in the south. But there may still be snow in the north. By the time they reach Maine, the snow will have been long gone. What's the chance of making it nonstop? Here is the data. About 1,500 people try it each year. About 300 people make it. It is a great challenge.
Careful planning is necessary. There are problems to solve. The biggest one is the weight on one's back. Too many hikers start out with too much. Wise ones don't carry food. They send packages to post offices along the way. There are no campfires allowed. Some shelters are near the path. But the trail is crowded. It is hard to find space. A perfect tent is necessary. And it rains a lot. Great rain gear (用具) is needed. It should be light.
Benton MacKaye founded the trail. The first section of the trail was opened in 1923. It is cared for by volunteers in each state. Do you plan to go? Read lots of books by people who've done it.
