filed under: health and social benefits
This study evaluated pack weight to understand the limits of long-term load carriage. Participants were Appalachian Trail hikers who attempted to complete the entire trail in the 2012 season.
This study examines pack weights and how it affects a hiker’s ability to complete a long distance trail, such as the Appalachian Trail (AT). This study also reviews injuries sustained in previous studies by AT hikers and attempts to provide additional data for this domain. The factors that can influence a hiker’s endurance are also explored. The primary focus of the study was to collect survey-based data from hikers to identify pack-load limits for long-distance hikes like the AT based on pack weight and load percentages of total body weight.
Published June 2013
Improving Accessibility on Public Lands
Recommendations from American Trails
The Great American Outdoors Act (GAOA) is Making a Difference Across America
Use this interactive map to find where, when, and how these funds are being used.
Everything you need to know about the positive impact of trails on health, environment, economics, and more.
Chattahoochee River NRA Water Trail
A 48-mile water trail along the Chattahoochee River in Georgia. The water trail is contained within the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area (NRA).
