Appalachian Trail

 

The Appalachian Trail (A.T.) is a 2,175-mile long footpath stretching through 14 eastern states from Maine to Georgia. Conceived in 1921 and first completed in 1937, it traverses the wild, scenic, wooded, pastoral, and culturally significant lands of the Appalachian Mountains. The A.T. is a hiking trail, enjoyed by an estimated 4 million people each year. It is within a day's drive of 2/3rds of the U.S. population. People of all ages and abilities enjoy short walks, day hikes, and long-distance backpacking journeys. It offers a variety of opportunities for viewing spectacular scenery, for exploring, for adventure, for exercise, for nature study, and for renewal. The A.T. is managed cooperatively by the National Park Service, the Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC), volunteers from 30 local A.T. Clubs, the USDA Forest Service, and other public land-managing agencies.  Within this partnership, thousands of volunteers do much of the work each year to keep the Trail open for all to enjoy.  The Trail is on more than 75 different federal and state forests and park lands.

 

The country's premier hiking trail passes right through Botetourt on its way from Georgia to Maine. The trail provided hikers with views of the Botetourt rolling farmland, acres of dense forest in the National forest and spectacular peaks on the Blue Ridge as it dissects the county. No matter whether you're a novice hiker or veteran ridgerunner, the Appalachian Trail offers unparalleled opportunities to explore, experience and connect with nature. Whether you hike the Appalachian Trail for an afternoon, a weekend, or a season, a little planning will go a long way in ensuring your hike is enjoyable and safe.

 

There are several trailheads located throughout the county.

 

Trail Towns in Botetourt

 

County has three trail towns that are on or near the AT.  Each of the towns has amenities that will help day and thru hikers to rest, resupply, and recuperate.  The towns are in order traveling northbound on the trail.

 

Daleville

 

Daleville is home to many of Botetourt County's hotels and restaurants.  The AT crosses right route 220 where hikers can find supplies at the Botetourt Commons shopping center.  Most of the hotels have discounted hiker rates.

 

Hiker Amenities

 

· ABC (Liquor Store)
· Outdoor Trails – Hiking and Camping gear
· Post Office
· UPS Store
· Grocery Store
· Coffee Shop with Internet access
· Several Restaurants
· Pet Friendly hotels
· Banking

 

Troutville

 

Troutville is a hiker-friendly town that has allowed hikers to camp in their town park and even use the shower and washing machines at the fire hall.  The AT has an access point with a long-term parking lot just outside of town. 

 

Hiker Amenities

 

· Post Office
· Grocery Store
· Trailhead parking lot
· Camping allowed in town park
· Showers offered at Fire Department
· Restaurant with ABC permit
· Banking

 

Buchanan

 

Buchanan is a short hike from the AT where it crosses through the National Forest on its way up to the Blue Ridge Parkway.  Buchanan welcomes hikers with its many restaurants, Bed and Breakfasts, two outfitters and the public library that has free Internet access.  Hikers can take a break from the trail at the Historic Buchanan Theatre where pop corn is still only a dollar.

 

Hiker Amenities

 

· Library with free Internet access
· Post Office
· Several Bed and Breakfasts
· Many restaurants
· Grocery store
· H & H Outfitter – Hunting, fishing, and camping supplies
· Twin River Outfitters – Canoe and Kayak trips
· Movie Theatre
· Banking