What is the American Discovery Trail?

The American Discovery Trail is a comprehensive system of recreational trails and roads designed to create a coast-to-coast hiking and biking route across the mid-section of the United States. It is recognized as the only non-motorized trail that spans the entire country.

What is the total length of the American Discovery Trail, including its alternate routes?

The total length of the American Discovery Trail, encompassing both its northern and southern alternate routes, is approximately 6,800 miles (10,900 kilometers).

What are the designated eastern and western termini for the American Discovery Trail?

The eastern trailhead of the American Discovery Trail is located on the Delmarva Peninsula at Cape Henlopen, Delaware, on the Atlantic Ocean. The western terminus is at Limantour Beach on the northern California coast, facing the Pacific Ocean.

What types of non-motorized recreational activities are permitted on the American Discovery Trail?

The American Discovery Trail is primarily used for hiking and horseback riding, and most sections also accommodate mountain biking.

How does the American Discovery Trail connect with other designated national trails?

The trail integrates with or connects to numerous other trails, including five National Scenic Trails, ten National Historic Trails, and twenty-three National Recreation Trails. It also runs concurrently with or connects to specific long-distance trails such as the North Country Trail, Buckeye Trail, Continental Divide Trail, and Colorado Trail.

Which states does the American Discovery Trail pass through, and what is the approximate mileage in each?

The American Discovery Trail traverses 15 states and the District of Columbia. The mileage in each state is as follows: Delaware (45 miles), Maryland (270 miles), West Virginia (288 miles), Ohio (524 miles), Indiana (250 miles), Illinois (219 miles), Kentucky (8.7 miles), Iowa (512 miles), Missouri (343 miles), Nebraska (523 miles), Kansas (570 miles), Colorado (1,153 miles), Utah (593 miles), Nevada (496 miles), and California (276 miles).

What is the highest elevation point reached by the American Discovery Trail?

The highest point on the American Discovery Trail is Argentine Pass in Colorado, situated at an elevation of 13,207 feet (4,025 meters).

What is the typical seasonal recommendation for traversing the American Discovery Trail?

The trail is generally accessible year-round, but hikers often follow a specific east-to-west itinerary to take advantage of favorable seasonal weather conditions across different regions.

What types of natural and historical attractions can be found along the American Discovery Trail?

The trail passes through numerous significant natural areas, including 14 national parks and 16 national forests. It also incorporates or connects to various historical trails, offering a rich experience of the American landscape and heritage.

Who were the first individuals to backpack the entire official route of the American Discovery Trail?

Joyce and Pete Cottrell were the first to backpack the entire official route of the American Discovery Trail. They completed the hike over two calendar years, finishing in 2003, though they hiked the segments out of sequence.

Who were the first couple to complete the American Discovery Trail in one continuous walk?

Marcia and Ken Powers, from Pleasanton, California, were the first husband-and-wife team to complete the trail in a single continuous walk. Their journey lasted from February 27 to October 15, 2005, covering 5,058 miles.

Who was the first person to backpack the entire 6,800-mile American Discovery Trail, including both northern and southern sections, in one continuous hike?

Mike Daniel, also known as "Lion King," was the first person to backpack the entire 6,800-mile American Discovery Trail, including both its northern and southern sections, in one continuous hike. He completed this feat between June 17, 2007, and November 5, 2008.

Who holds the distinction of being the first woman to backpack the entire American Discovery Trail solo and continuously?

Briana DeSanctis is recognized as the first woman to backpack the entire 6,800-mile American Discovery Trail solo in one continuous hike. Her journey began on January 1, 2022, and concluded on February 10, 2024.

Who was the first person to complete the equestrian route of the American Discovery Trail on horseback?

Matt Parker was the first individual to complete the equestrian route of the American Discovery Trail on horseback. He undertook this journey from May 2003 to November 2005.

What is the significance of Cape Henlopen State Park in relation to the American Discovery Trail?

Cape Henlopen State Park in Delaware serves as the eastern terminus of the American Discovery Trail, marking the starting point for many hikers and equestrians embarking on the cross-country journey.

What notable natural landmarks are associated with the American Discovery Trail in Colorado?

In Colorado, the American Discovery Trail crosses the Rocky Mountains at Argentine Pass, which is the trail's highest point. It also passes through several national forests, including Pike, Arapaho, San Isabel, Gunnison, White River, and Grand Mesa National Forests, and numerous parks like Garden of the Gods and Roxborough State Park.

What is the western terminus of the American Discovery Trail?

The western terminus of the American Discovery Trail is Limantour Beach, located within Point Reyes National Seashore in California.

What are some of the affiliated trails found in Delaware along the American Discovery Trail?

In Delaware, the American Discovery Trail utilizes or connects with the Cape Henlopen Bike Trail and the Georgetown-Lewes Trail. It also passes through Redden State Forest and Cape Henlopen State Park.

Which major national parks and forests does the American Discovery Trail traverse?

The American Discovery Trail passes through 14 national parks and 16 national forests across the United States, providing access to diverse natural landscapes.

What are some of the affiliated trails and parks mentioned in Maryland for the American Discovery Trail?

In Maryland, the trail connects with trails such as the East Coast Greenway, the Appalachian National Scenic Trail, and the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail. It also passes through parks like Martinak State Park, Tuckahoe State Park, Sandy Point State Park, Greenbelt Park, Rock Creek Park, and the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park.

What affiliated trails and forests are noted for the American Discovery Trail in West Virginia?

In West Virginia, the trail utilizes or connects with the North Bend Rail Trail, the Allegheny Trail, and passes through the Monongahela National Forest. Notable parks include Harpers Ferry National Historic Park, Canaan Valley Resort State Park, and Blackwater Falls State Park.

Which affiliated trails and forests are part of the American Discovery Trail route in Ohio?

In Ohio, the trail incorporates the Buckeye Trail and passes through Wayne National Forest, Hocking State Forest, and Shawnee State Forest. It also includes numerous state parks and memorials such as Burr Oak State Park, Hocking Hills State Park, Serpent Mound State Memorial, and Hueston Woods State Park.

What are some key affiliated trails and parks along the northern route of the American Discovery Trail in Indiana?

The northern Indiana route of the American Discovery Trail includes trails like the Whitewater Gorge National Recreation Trail and the Cardinal Greenway. It also passes through state parks such as Tippecanoe River State Park and Summit Lake State Park.

What are some key affiliated trails and parks along the southern route of the American Discovery Trail in Indiana?

The southern Indiana route features trails like the Pigeon Creek Greenway and the Knobstone Trail. It traverses state forests including Clark State Forest and Hoosier National Forest, and state parks such as Clifty Falls State Park and Lincoln State Park.

What affiliated trails and parks are associated with the northern route of the American Discovery Trail in Illinois?

The northern Illinois route includes trails such as the Old Plank Road Trail, the Illinois and Michigan Canal State Trail, and the Grand Illinois Trail. It also passes through several state parks like Channahon State Park, Starved Rock State Park, and Matthiessen State Park.

What affiliated trails and parks are part of the southern route of the American Discovery Trail in Illinois?

The southern Illinois route utilizes the River to River Trail and the Tunnel Hill State Trail, and passes through the Shawnee National Forest. Notable parks include Ferne Clyffe State Park, Giant City State Park, and Cave In Rock State Park.

Which affiliated trails and parks are found along the northern route of the American Discovery Trail in Iowa?

In Iowa, the northern route includes trails such as the Hoover Nature Trail, the Cedar Valley Nature Trail, and the Raccoon River Valley Trail. It also passes through state parks like George Wyth State Park and Wild Cat Den State Park.

What affiliated trails, forests, and parks are associated with the southern route of the American Discovery Trail in Missouri?

The southern Missouri route connects with the Katy Trail and the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail, passing through Daniel Boone State Forest and Baltimore Bend State Forest. Parks include Forest Park in St. Louis, Arrow Rock State Historic Site, and Van Meter State Park.

What affiliated trails and parks are part of the northern route of the American Discovery Trail in Nebraska?

The northern Nebraska route of the American Discovery Trail follows or connects with historic trails like the Pony Express National Historic Trail, Mormon Pioneer National Historic Trail, and Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail. It also includes state historical parks such as Fort Kearny, Ash Hollow, and Buffalo Bill Ranch.

What affiliated trails and parks are associated with the southern route of the American Discovery Trail in Kansas?

The southern Kansas route of the American Discovery Trail connects with the Santa Fe National Historic Trail. It passes through parks like Shawnee Mission Park and Clinton State Park.

What are some of the affiliated trails and forests along the American Discovery Trail in Colorado?

In Colorado, the trail connects with numerous affiliated trails including the Colorado Trail and the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail. It also traverses several national forests such as Pike, Arapaho, San Isabel, Gunnison, White River, and Grand Mesa National Forests.

What affiliated trails, forests, and parks are part of the American Discovery Trail route in Utah?

In Utah, the trail connects with the Kokopelli's Trail and the Great Western Trail, passing through Dixie National Forest, Fishlake National Forest, and Manti-La Sal National Forest. It also goes near Canyonlands National Park and Capitol Reef National Park.

What affiliated trails, forests, and parks are associated with the American Discovery Trail in Nevada?

In Nevada, the trail connects with the Tahoe Rim Trail and the Pony Express National Historic Trail, passing through the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest. It also goes through Great Basin National Park and several state parks and wilderness areas.

What are some of the affiliated trails and parks along the American Discovery Trail in California?

In California, the trail connects with the Pacific Crest Trail and the San Francisco Bay Trail. It passes through numerous parks and recreational areas, including Granite Chief Wilderness, Auburn State Recreation Area, Mt. Diablo State Park, and Point Reyes National Seashore.

What is the significance of the American Discovery Trail being the only non-motorized coast-to-coast trail?

Its status as the only non-motorized coast-to-coast trail highlights its unique role in providing a continuous, accessible route for hikers, bikers, and equestrians across the United States, emphasizing human-powered travel.

How does the American Discovery Trail differ between its northern and southern routes?

The American Discovery Trail features distinct northern and southern alternate routes for portions of its journey. The northern route passes through Chicago, while the southern route goes through St. Louis. These routes vary in length, with the northern route covering 4,834 miles and the southern route covering 5,057 miles.

What is the purpose of the "ADT Society's official trail logo" mentioned in the article?

The ADT Society's official trail logo serves as a recognized symbol for the American Discovery Trail, likely used for identification and branding purposes related to the trail and its managing organization.

What is the role of the American Discovery Trail Society?

The American Discovery Trail Society appears to be the organization responsible for the trail, as indicated by its official logo and the references to its data books and website, suggesting it manages or promotes the trail.

What does the presence of multiple National Park Service and National Forest Service lands signify for the American Discovery Trail?

The trail's passage through numerous National Parks and National Forests indicates that it traverses protected and often scenic areas, highlighting its importance for conservation and recreation across diverse federal lands.

What is the difficulty level of the American Discovery Trail?

The difficulty level of the American Discovery Trail is described as ranging from easy to strenuous, reflecting the varied terrain and conditions encountered along its extensive route.

What hazards might users encounter on the American Discovery Trail?

Users of the American Discovery Trail may encounter hazards such as severe weather conditions, which can vary significantly across the diverse geographical regions the trail traverses.

What is the significance of the trail passing through the California Delta at its lowest point?

The trail's passage through the California Delta at its lowest point, -17 feet below sea level, highlights the extreme topographical variations encountered on the American Discovery Trail, from high mountain passes to below-sea-level regions.

How does the American Discovery Trail utilize existing trail infrastructure?

The American Discovery Trail is designed as a system that incorporates or connects to a vast network of existing trails, including national, state, and local recreational and historic trails, rather than being a single, continuous purpose-built path.

What is the purpose of the "More citations needed" notice at the beginning of the article?

The "More citations needed" notice indicates that the article requires additional references to reliable sources to verify the information presented, a standard Wikipedia practice for ensuring accuracy and verifiability.

What does the "Article is written like a travel guide" notice suggest about the content?

This notice suggests that the article may contain elements typically found in travel guides, such as personal recommendations or a less encyclopedic tone, and indicates a need for revision to maintain a neutral, objective, and encyclopedic style.

What is the role of the "See also" section in the article?

The "See also" section provides links to related topics or articles that may be of interest to the reader, such as the American Perimeter Trail, offering further context or related information.

What kind of information is typically found in the "Further reading" section?

The "Further reading" section lists books, articles, or other publications that offer more in-depth information about the American Discovery Trail, serving as resources for those seeking more detailed knowledge.

What does the "Authority control" section at the end of the article signify?

The "Authority control" section provides links to standardized identifiers in various library and database catalogs (like VIAF, GND, Library of Congress), which help uniquely identify the subject of the article and connect it to related resources in those systems.

What is the significance of the trail passing through both urban centers like Chicago and remote natural areas?

The trail's route through major cities like Chicago and extensive natural landscapes demonstrates its comprehensive nature, connecting diverse environments and potentially offering varied experiences from urban exploration to wilderness trekking.

American Discovery Trail Wiki: The American Discovery Trail: A Transcontinental Expedition

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

When you are ready...
🎮 Play the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge Game🎮

Trail Overview

Transcontinental Network

The American Discovery Trail (ADT) is a meticulously planned system of recreational trails and roads that collectively form a comprehensive, non-motorized, coast-to-coast pathway across the mid-section of the United States. It accommodates hikers, bicyclists, and equestrians across most of its extensive route.

Scale and Scope

Spanning an impressive 6,800 miles (10,900 km), the ADT is recognized as the sole non-motorized, coast-to-coast trail in the nation. It features distinct northern and southern alternates, passing through major hubs like Chicago and St. Louis, thereby offering diverse experiences.

Termini and Routes

The trail's eastern terminus is situated at Cape Henlopen, Delaware, on the Atlantic Ocean, while its western terminus is at Limantour Beach, California, on the Pacific Ocean. The northern route covers approximately 4,834 miles (7,780 km), and the southern route extends for about 5,057 miles (8,138 km).

Geographic Extremes

Highest Point

The trail reaches its apex at Argentine Pass in Colorado, situated at an elevation of 13,207 feet (4,025 meters) as it traverses the Rocky Mountains.

Lowest Point

Conversely, the trail descends to its lowest point in the California Delta, between Isleton and Antioch, California, registering at -17 feet (-5.2 meters) below sea level.

Diverse Terrain

The ADT navigates through a remarkable variety of landscapes, including 14 National Parks and 16 National Forests, showcasing the diverse natural beauty of the United States.

Interconnected Pathways

National Trails Integration

The American Discovery Trail serves as a crucial connector within the national trails system. It integrates with or runs concurrently along sections of five National Scenic Trails, ten National Historic Trails, and twenty-three National Recreation Trails, creating a vast network for exploration.

Major Trail Overlaps

Significant portions of the ADT coincide with other major long-distance trails, including the North Country Trail, the Buckeye Trail, the Continental Divide Trail, and the Colorado Trail, offering opportunities for extended journeys and diverse trail experiences.

Endurance Feats

Pioneering Hikers

The trail has been completed by numerous dedicated individuals. Notable early thru-hikers include Joyce and Pete Cottrell, who completed segments over two years, finishing in 2003. Marcia and Ken Powers were the first couple to complete the trail in a single continuous walk (2005). Mike Daniel achieved the first continuous hike of the full 6,800 miles (2007-2008), and Briana DeSanctis became the first woman to complete the full 6,800 miles solo (2022-2024).

Equestrian Achievement

Demonstrating the trail's versatility, Matt Parker completed the entire equestrian route on horseback between May 2003 and November 2005, highlighting the ADT's suitability for various forms of non-motorized travel.

Cross-Country Traverse

The American Discovery Trail traverses fourteen states and the District of Columbia, offering a unique perspective on America's diverse geography and culture.

Eastern States

Delaware (45 miles)

Parks: Cape Henlopen State Park
Forests: Redden State Forest
Affiliated Trails: Cape Henlopen Bike Trail, Georgetown-Lewes Trail

Maryland (270 miles)

Parks: Martinak State Park, Tuckahoe State Park, Sandy Point State Park, Greenbelt Park, Rock Creek Park, Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park
Affiliated Trails: Love Point to Lewes Trail, WB&A Rail Trail, Baltimore and Annapolis Trail, East Coast Greenway, Anacostia Tributary Trail System, Fort Circle Trail, Capital Crescent Trail, Rock Creek Park Trail, Appalachian National Scenic Trail, Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail, Allegheny Highlands Trail

West Virginia (288 miles)

Parks: Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, Canaan Valley Resort State Park, Tygart Lake State Park, Blackwater Falls State Park, North Bend State Park
Forests: Monongahela National Forest
Affiliated Trails: North Bend Rail Trail, Harrison County Rail-Trail, Dryfork Rail-Trail, Allegheny Trail

Ohio (524 miles)

Parks: Burr Oak State Park, Logan State Park, Hocking Hills State Park, Tar Hollow State Park, Scioto Trail State Park, Pike Lake State Park, Fort Hill State Memorial, Serpent Mound State Memorial, Davis Memorial, Shawnee State Park, Grant Lake St. Mary's State Park, East Fork State Park, Little Miami River State Park, Eden Park, Bicentennial Common, Devou Park (KY), Harrison's Tomb, Miami-Whitewater Forest Hamilton County Park, Indian Creek Preserve, Butler County Metropark, Hueston Woods State Park
Forests: Wayne National Forest, Hocking State Forest, Tar Hollow State Forest, Scioto Trail State Forest, Pike State Forest, Shawnee State Forest
Affiliated Trails: Buckeye Trail, Burr Oak Loop Trail, Robert and Mary Lou Paton Trail, Grandma Gatewood Trail, Perimeter Trail, Riverwalk, Shaker Trace, Hueston Woods State Park Trails, Wayne National Forest Trails

Midwestern Routes

Indiana (Northern route: 250 miles)

Parks: Tippecanoe River State Park, Summit Lake State Park
Forests: Clark State Forest, Harrison-Crawford State Forest, Hoosier National Forest
Affiliated Trails: Whitewater Gorge National Recreation Trail, Cardinal Greenway, Erie Trail, Nickel Plate Trail

Indiana (Southern route)

Parks: Burdette Park, Clifty Falls State Park, Lincoln State Park, Falls of the Ohio State Park, O'Bannon Woods State Park
Forests: Clark State Forest, Harrison-Crawford State Forest, Hoosier National Forest
Affiliated Trails: Pigeon Creek Greenway, Knobstone Trail, Heritage Trail of Madison

Illinois (Northern route: 219 miles)

Parks: Indian Boundary Park, Dewey Helmick Nature Preserve, Hickory Creek Bikeway Trailhead Park, Channahon State Park, McKinley Woods State Park, William G. Stratton State Park, Gebhard Woods State Park, Illini State Park, Starved Rock State Park, Buffalo Rock State Park, Matthiessen State Park, Hennepin Canal Parkway State Park
Forests: Shawnee National Forest
Affiliated Trails: Old Plank Road Trail, Illinois and Michigan Canal State Trail, Grand Illinois Trail, Sauk Trail Forest Preserve Trail, Thorn Creek Trail, Hennepin Canal Parkway State Trail, Great River Trail

Illinois (Southern route)

Parks: Devil's Backbone Park, Ferne Clyffe State Park, Giant City State Park, Cave In Rock State Park
Forests: Shawnee National Forest
Affiliated Trails: River to River Trail, Metro-East Levee Trail, Tunnel Hill State Trail

Iowa (Northern route: 512 miles)

Parks: George Wyth State Park, Wildcat Den State Park, Pleasant Creek State Park
Affiliated Trails: Riverfront Trail, Hoover Nature Trail, Cedar River Trail, Cedar Valley Nature Trail, Cedar Valley Lakes Trail, Pioneer Trail, Comet Trail, Heart of Iowa Nature Trail, Saylorville-Des Moines River Trail, Raccoon River Valley Trail, T-Bone Trail, Wabash Trace Trail

Missouri (Southern route: 343 miles)

Parks: Forest Park (St. Louis), Missouri State Park, Frontier Park, Swope Park, Arrow Rock State Historic Site, Van Meter State Park
Forests: Daniel Boone State Forest, Baltimore Bend State Forest
Affiliated Trails: Katy Trail, Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail, Rock Island Spur

Mountainous & Plains

Nebraska (Northern route: 523 miles)

Parks: Fort Kearny State Historical Park, Ash Hollow State Historical Park, Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historical Park
Affiliated Trails: Pony Express National Historic Trail, Mormon Pioneer National Historic Trail, MoPac East Trail, Oak Creek Trail, Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail, California National Historic Trail, Oregon National Historic Trail

Kansas (Southern route: 570 miles)

Parks: Shawnee Mission Park, Clinton State Park
Affiliated Trails: Santa Fe National Historic Trail

Colorado (1,153 miles)

Parks: John Martin Reservoir State Park, Lake Pueblo State Park, Mueller State Park, Garden of the Gods Park, Roxborough State Park, Chatfield State Park, Bear Creek Regional Park, Mount Falcon Park, O'Fallon Denver Mountain Park, Elk Meadow Park
Forests: Pike National Forest, Arapaho National Forest, San Isabel National Forest, Gunnison National Forest, White River National Forest, Grand Mesa National Forest
Affiliated Trails: Pueblo Riverwalk, Canon City Riverwalk, Cripple Creek Trails System, Ute Pass Trail, America The Beautiful Trail, Green Mountain Falls Bikeway, Sinton Trail, Pikes Peak Greenway, New Santa Fe Trail, Carpenter Peak Trail, Chatfield Trails System, South Platte River Trail, Bear Creek Greenway, Castle Trail, People's Path, Warren Gulch Trail, Spring Creek Trail, South Park Trail, Burning Bear Trail, Hall Valley Trail, Colorado Trail, Vail Pass Tenmile Canyon National Recreation Trail, Chalk Creek Trail, Continental Divide National Scenic Trail, Timberline Trail, Taylor Pass Trail, Brush Creek Trail, Crystal River Trail, Braderick Creek Trail, Lake Ridge Lakes Trail, High Trail, Sunlight-Powderhorn Snowmobile Trail, Leon Lake Trail, Crag Crest National Recreation Trail, Kannah Creek Trail, Old Spanish Trail, Colorado Riverfront Trail, Liberty Cap Trail, Black Ridge Trail, Monument Canyon Trail, Kokopelli's Trail, Fountain Creek Greenway, Cavalier Park Trail

Utah (593 miles)

Parks: Canyonlands National Park, Capitol Reef National Park
Forests: Dixie National Forest, Fishlake National Forest, Manti-La Sal National Forest
Affiliated Trails: Kokopelli's Trail, Great Western Trail, Paiute ATV Trail, Oak Creek Trail, Lockhart Basin Trail, Hurrah Pass Trail

Western Deserts & Peaks

Nevada (496 miles)

Parks: Great Basin National Park, Cave Lake State Park, Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park, Berlin-Ichthyosaur State Park, Sand Mountain Recreation Area, Grimes Point National Historic Site, Fort Churchill State Historic Park, Washoe Lake State Park, Lake Tahoe State Park
Forests: Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest
Wilderness Areas: Currant Mountain Wilderness, Alta Toquima Wilderness, Arc Dome Wilderness, Mt. Rose Wilderness, Table Mountain Wilderness
Affiliated Trails: Tahoe Rim Trail, Pony Express National Historic Trail, Mount Jefferson Trail, Toiyabe National Recreation Trail

California (276 miles)

Parks: Granite Chief Wilderness, Auburn State Recreation Area, Folsom Lake State Recreation Area, American River Parkway, William Land Park, Contra Loma Regional Park, Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve, Mt. Diablo State Park, Shell Ridge Open Space, Heather Farms Park, Acalanes Ridge Open Space, Briones Regional Park, Wildcat Canyon Regional Park, Tilden Regional Park, Presidio of San Francisco, Golden Gate National Recreation Area, Muir Woods National Monument, Mount Tamalpais State Park, Point Reyes National Seashore
Affiliated Trails: Tahoe Rim Trail, Western States Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, Foresthill Loop Trail, Confluence Trail, Pioneer Express Trail, American River Bike Trail, Jedediah Smith National Recreation Trail, Delta de Anza Regional Trail, Stewartville Trail, Ridge Trail, Black Diamond Trail, Cumberland Trail, Black Diamond to Mt. Diablo Trail, Bruce Lee Trail, Mitchell Canyon Trail, Deer Flat Creek Trail, Prospectors Gap Trail, North Peak Trail, Summit Trail, Wall Point Trail, Briones-Mount Diablo Trail, Lafayette Ridge Trail, Homestead Valley Trail, Oursan Trail, Bear Creek Trail, Inspiration Trail, Bay Area Ridge Trail, Sea View Trail, Vollmer Peak Trail, Grizzly Peak Trail, San Francisco Bay Trail, SCA Trail, Bobcat Trail, Miwok Trail, Redwood Creek Trail, Deer Creek Park Fire Trail, Hillside Trail, Ben Johnson Trail, Stapleveldt Trail, Matt Davis Trail, Coastal Trail, Bolinas Ridge Trail, Randall Trail, Olema Valley Trail, Stewart Trail, Glen Trail, Bear Valley Trail, Coast Trail, Mokelumne Coast to Crest Trail

Prepare for Your Journey

Key Considerations

Embarking on a significant portion or the entirety of the American Discovery Trail requires meticulous planning. Factors such as seasonal weather patterns, trail conditions, resupply points, and personal fitness are paramount. Understanding the trail's diverse segments, from mountainous terrain to prairie paths, is essential for a successful expedition.

Planning Resources: Consult the official American Discovery Trail Society website for detailed maps, segment information, and current trail conditions. Consider acquiring specialized guidebooks and data books that provide crucial logistical information.

Physical Preparation: Engage in a progressive training regimen that simulates the demands of long-distance hiking or biking, including elevation changes and carrying necessary gear.

Navigation: Familiarize yourself with map reading and GPS technology. The ADT often utilizes existing trails, roads, and pathways, requiring careful navigation.

Safety: Be prepared for variable weather conditions, wildlife encounters, and potential hazards. Carry appropriate safety equipment and inform others of your itinerary.

Essential Gear

Proper gear is critical for comfort and safety on the ADT. This typically includes a robust backpack, appropriate footwear, shelter (tent or bivy), sleeping system, cooking equipment, navigation tools, first-aid kit, and weather-appropriate clothing.

Backpack
Tent or Tarp
Sleeping Bag & Pad
Stove, Fuel, Cookware
Water Filter/Purifier
Food Supplies
Navigation Tools (Map, Compass, GPS)
First-Aid Kit
Headlamp/Flashlight
Sun Protection (Hat, Sunscreen)
Insect Repellent
Appropriate Clothing Layers
Sturdy Hiking Boots/Shoes
Trekking Poles (Optional)

Teacher's Corner

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

Edit and Print Materials from this study in the wiki2web studio

Click here to open the "American Discovery Trail" Wiki2Web Studio curriculum kit

Use the free Wiki2web Studio to generate printable flashcards, worksheets, exams, and export your materials as a web page or an interactive game.

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?

Learn about american_discovery_trail while playing the wiki2web Clarity Challenge game.

Unlock the mystery image and prove your knowledge by earning trophies. This simple game is addictively fun and is a great way to learn!

Play now

Explore More Topics

Discover other topics to study!

References

A full list of references for this article are available at the American Discovery Trail Wikipedia page

Feedback & Support

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Important Considerations

Disclaimer and Guidance

This content has been generated by an AI model for educational purposes, drawing information from publicly available data. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy and comprehensiveness, users should always consult official sources and experienced professionals for planning and execution.

Trail Conditions and Safety: Trail conditions, accessibility, and safety can vary significantly along the American Discovery Trail due to its vast length and diverse environments. Weather, seasonal changes, and local factors can impact the trail. Always check current conditions and local advisories before undertaking any segment of the trail.

Not Professional Advice: This information is not a substitute for professional advice regarding outdoor recreation, navigation, safety, or logistical planning. Users assume all risks associated with their use of this information.

The American Discovery Trail

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Trail Overview 🗺️

🌐 Transcontinental Network

📏 Scale and Scope

🏁 Termini and Routes

Geographic Extremes ⛰️

⬆️ Highest Point

⬇️ Lowest Point

🏞️ Diverse Terrain

Interconnected Pathways 🔗

⭐ National Trails Integration

🛤️ Major Trail Overlaps

Endurance Feats 🏆

🚶‍♀️ Pioneering Hikers

🐎 Equestrian Achievement

Cross-Country Traverse 🇺🇸

➡️ Eastern States

Delaware (45 miles)

Maryland (270 miles)

West Virginia (288 miles)

Ohio (524 miles)

↔️ Midwestern Routes

Indiana (Northern route: 250 miles)

Indiana (Southern route)

Illinois (Northern route: 219 miles)

Illinois (Southern route)

Iowa (Northern route: 512 miles)

Missouri (Southern route: 343 miles)

🏔️ Mountainous & Plains

Nebraska (Northern route: 523 miles)

Kansas (Southern route: 570 miles)

Colorado (1,153 miles)

Utah (593 miles)

🌵 Western Deserts & Peaks

Nevada (496 miles)

California (276 miles)

Prepare for Your Journey 📚

💡 Key Considerations

🎒 Essential Gear

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

True or False? 🤔

❓ Test Your Knowledge! ❓

Gamer's Corner 🎮

Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?

Explore More Topics

📜 Discover other topics to study!

References

📜 References

Feedback & Support 👍

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Important Considerations ⚠️

📜 Disclaimer and Guidance

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Trail Overview

Transcontinental Network

Scale and Scope

Termini and Routes

Geographic Extremes

Highest Point

Lowest Point

Diverse Terrain

Interconnected Pathways

National Trails Integration

Major Trail Overlaps

Endurance Feats

Pioneering Hikers

Equestrian Achievement

Cross-Country Traverse

Eastern States

Midwestern Routes

Mountainous & Plains

Western Deserts & Peaks

Prepare for Your Journey

Key Considerations

Essential Gear

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Important Considerations

Disclaimer and Guidance