A History of the Appalachian Trail

The Appalachian Trail has connected thousands of thru-hikers and day-hikers to Bedford, Virginia, for decades. Considered to be the longest “hiking only” footpath in the world, the Appalachian Trail twists and winds for nearly 2,200 miles through the Appalachian Mountain Range in the Eastern United States.

Journeying through a total of 14 states, the experience of hiking the entire Appalachian Trail is one hikers will never forget. In fact, the elevation gain and loss of hiking the entire Appalachian Trail is equivalent to climbing Mount Everest 16 times. That means that hikers will cover a total of 464,464 feet in elevation. Hiking the Appalachian Trail in its entirety is no easy feat—in fact, only approximately 15,000 people can claim to have done it.

As a way to honor this almost 100 year old trail and to pay tribute to the men and women who have hiked the Appalachian Trail, Emerson Creek Pottery has created a special edition Appalachian Trail Mug. Completely handcrafted and handpainted in Bedford, Virginia, where the Appalachian Trail just misses, the Appalachian Trail Mug is chemical free and non-toxic, and is also dishwasher, microwave and oven safe.

Whether you or someone you know has hiked the entire trail or you simply enjoy quick day or weekend hikes on the Appalachian Trail, this mug is for you.

Facts About the Appalachian Trail

• It’s estimated that roughly 99% of the trail has been relocated or rebuilt since its completion. Tennessee’s Roan Mountain, Virginia’s Grayson Highlands, New Jersey’s Pochuck Creek swamp and Maine’s Saddleback Mountain were not part of the original trail.
• The Appalachian Trail cuts through the oldest mountain range on the planet. It’s believed that the Appalachian Mountain Range predates the creation of the North American continent.
• Even though the Appalachian Trail goes through 14 states, it only reaches the highest points of seven total states: Tennessee, Virginia, New Jersey, Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Maine.
• Skyline Drive follows the original path of the Appalachian Trail. You can access Skyline Drive just 90 minutes outside of Bedford, where Emerson Creek Pottery is headquartered.