Appalachian Trail Hike Bucket List

Time until hike: 43 days

Since 2017, I have published an annual bucket list on January 1st of each year. These lists include things I have never done that I want to try to accomplish during the year. It all started when I was in my final year of undergrad and I realized there were a lot of popular things in the college town I was in that I had never done before. I wanted to change that in my last semester. Thus, the original wish list was created.

I don’t always complete my lists, but that’s not really the point. Having a list encourages and motivates me to do things that I would otherwise stop doing due to the inertia of life. It’s fun to try even if it doesn’t always work.

I just posted my bucket list for 2026. As you can imagine, dear reader, completing a hike on the Appalachian Trail was just the highlight.

In honor of my annual bucket list, I’ve created a bucket list for the hike itself.

AT Thru-Hike Wish List

This list is made up of the firsts I hope to achieve while hiking. An important note is that it does not include most of the major “attractions” on the trail, but that is intentional. My list would be eternal if I included each of them. But don’t worry, I’m still excited to reach every milestone possible.

Here’s what made the list:

1. Get a route name.
2. Get a pack review.
3. Watch a sunrise from the top of a peak.
4. Use a backpacking stove to prepare food.
5. Hitch-hike.
6. Stay in a hiker’s hostel.
7. Contribute to a hikers box.
8. Participate in a paid meal or drink (thanks in advance).
9. Take a photo in front of ATC HQ.
10. Check out a wild pony at Grayson Highlands.

Wish List Summary

Because of the time I will be on the road, I know this list is short. If you think I’m missing something, let me know what you think I should add!

The practice hike I took in October 2025 on the Vermont Long Trail helped me gain some experience with things I’d never done before, like using a water filter, witnessing wildlife, and celebrating the magic of the trail. I’m ready to add experiences to that list by checking off some of these bucket list items.

Creating my annual wish lists gets me excited for the year ahead. They remind me that there is still beauty to be had in the world. They renew a sense of hope and anticipation for life. They remember numerous reasons to fight against the inertia of everyday life for things that make life worth living. Building my AT bucket list through hiking reminds me of the same thing.

And so we continue the adventure….

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