[at-l] Downward Trend on the AT

[art at crystalacresnh.com (Art Cloutman)]

The numbers are down but the success rate is up.  I believe more 
people are well informed of what it takes to do a thru hike.  So, 
those that attempt a thru have a better chance of success.  And a lot 
of other people draw the conclusion that they will not succeed so do 
not attempt.  People on the trail in 2004 seemed extremely well 
informed about light weight gear, pace, weather, food.  Many sections 
hikers and weekend hikers seemed to have a better idea of what long 
distance hiking is about.  I really belive the internet plays a major 
part in the higher success rate and lower starting rate.

Art


>I was looking at the ATC website and has anyone else noticed that 
>the numbers of hikers starting and actually finishing the AT have 
>been on a steady decline?    What happened and why aren't more 
>people hiking the AT?
>
>Just thought this may spark some interesting responses.
>
>Russ
>
>
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-- 

Life is Good!!!
Art Cloutman