Since Benton MacKaye first presented the idea for the Appalachian Trail in 1921, many books have been published dealing with some aspect of the Appalachian Trail. Probably the most familiar at the moment is Bill Bryson's "A Walk in the Woods: Rediscovering America on the Appalachian Trail". The first through hiker, Earl Shaffer, wrote of his time on the trail in "Walking With Spring" Another fascinating book is about the first woman through hiker, Emma "Grandma" Gatewood, "Grandma Gatewood's Walk", by Ben Montgomery.

Publications such as "The AT Guide" and "the Appalachian Trail Thru-Hikers' Companion" provide the hiker with information about hiking the trail in detail...don't leave home without one!