The Appalachian Trail is seeing fewer footsteps this year. According to new data from the Appalachian Trail Conservancy, the number of registered thru-hikers has dropped by nearly 30% compared to 2024. The reasons are complex — weather damage, rising costs, and changing lifestyles are all playing a role.
For Stacey Slamka, who has hiked trails across the country, this story is more than a statistic. It’s a snapshot of how outdoor culture is shifting.
Weather and Trail Damage
Much of the decline can be traced to storm destruction from Hurricane Helene in 2024. Flooding and landslides hit key sections of the Appalachian Trail, especially in North Carolina, Virginia, and Tennessee. Some hikers decided to postpone their trips until repairs are complete, while others opted for shorter, regional hikes.
Even a year later, crews and volunteers are still clearing debris, rebuilding bridges, and repairing washed-out paths. As Stacey Slamka has seen firsthand on trails, recovery from major storm damage takes time and community effort.
Cost, Time, and Changing Priorities
A full thru-hike takes a lot of time and cost several thousand dollars. With inflation still up and remote work opportunities shrinking, fewer people can take that kind of time off. Some hikers are shifting toward section hikes or local adventures instead of the classic Mexico-to-Maine journey.
Trail experts have also noted that the post-pandemic hiking surge is stabilizing. Outdoor participation remains strong, but fewer people are chasing long expeditions.
What It Means for Trail Communities
The drop in hikers is already being felt in nearby towns. Hostels, outfitters, and small cafés that depend on thru-hiker traffic are seeing slower seasons. Yet, this lull could also create breathing room — a chance to restore trail infrastructure, improve sustainability, and prepare for future growth.
For hikers, fewer crowds may mean a quieter, more reflective trail experience — something that reminds us why we walk in the first place.
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