- Follow proper privy hygiene to help prevent the spread of illness on the Appalachian Trail.
- Wash your hands with biodegradable soap and water, especially because hand sanitizer is not effective against norovirus.
- Treat your hands as though they are always dirty to reduce the risk of contamination while eating and hiking.
- Stay away from other hikers if you feel sick to help protect the trail community.
- The Appy Lodge proudly supports the Appalachian Trail Conservancy and encourages safe, responsible hiking in the Smoky Mountains.
Read on to learn more about some of the top health and safety tips that are important to follow when hiking the Appalachian Trail.
Our Gatlinburg Hotel’s Connection to the Appalachian Trail
The Appy Lodge was inspired by the Appalachian Trail, making the trail an important part of our identity. We are proud to support the Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC), whose work helps preserve, protect, and manage one of America's most iconic hiking trails. The ATC's Ridgerunners share valuable safety guidance based on extensive outdoor experience and wilderness first aid training.
1. Practice Good Privy Hygiene
Privies, or small trail outhouses, play an important role in keeping the Appalachian Trail clean and protecting the surrounding environment. Before using a privy, prepare an antiviral wipe and a small trash bag so you can clean your hands immediately afterward and properly dispose of the used wipe. Good hygiene helps reduce the spread of illnesses among hikers.
Best Practices:
- Carry antiviral wipes.
- Pack a small trash bag for used wipes.
- Clean your hands immediately after using a privy.
- Dispose of waste properly.
2. Be Mindful of Norovirus
Norovirus is one of the illnesses hikers should be aware of while spending time on the Appalachian Trail. The virus can survive on frequently touched surfaces, including shelter logbooks and shared facilities. Since hand sanitizer is not effective against norovirus, biodegradable soap and water remain the best way to wash your hands before eating and after using the restroom.
Remember to:
- Carry biodegradable soap.
- Wash your hands with soap and water whenever possible.
- Clean your hands before eating.
- Wash after using restroom facilities.
3. Always Assume Your Hands Are Dirty
While hiking, your hands regularly come into contact with trekking poles, rocks, trees, railings, and other shared surfaces. Treating your hands as though they are always contaminated helps reduce unnecessary exposure to germs. For example, pour trail mix directly from the bag into your mouth instead of grabbing it with your fingers.
Helpful Habits:
- Avoid touching food with unwashed hands.
- Minimize contact between your hands and snacks.
- Wash your hands whenever possible.
4. Keep Your Distance If You Are Sick
If you believe you may be sick, maintaining distance from other hikers is one of the simplest ways to help prevent the spread of illness. Giving others space helps keep shelters, trailheads, and shared facilities safer for everyone enjoying the Appalachian Trail.
Ways to Help Protect Others:
- Avoid close contact with fellow hikers.
- Practice good hygiene.
- Consider postponing your hike if you are feeling ill.
FAQ About Safety While Hiking the Appalachian Trail
What health risks should hikers be aware of on the Appalachian Trail in the Smokies?
Hikers should be mindful of illnesses such as norovirus, which can spread through contaminated surfaces and improper hand hygiene.
Why is soap and water recommended over hand sanitizer?
Hand sanitizer is not effective against norovirus. Washing your hands with biodegradable soap and water provides better protection before eating and after using restroom facilities.
What is the best way to practice good trail hygiene?
Wash your hands regularly, use privies properly, dispose of trash responsibly, and avoid touching food with unwashed hands.
What are Appalachian Trail privies?
Privies are small outhouse-style restroom facilities located along the Appalachian Trail that help protect the environment by reducing human waste in natural areas.
Why does The Appy Lodge support the Appalachian Trail Conservancy?
The Appalachian Trail inspired The Appy Lodge's name, and we proudly support the Appalachian Trail Conservancy's mission to preserve, maintain, and protect the trail for future generations.
Who are the Appalachian Trail Conservancy Ridgerunners?
Ridgerunners are experienced outdoor professionals trained in wilderness first aid who educate hikers, promote Leave No Trace practices, and help improve safety along the Appalachian Trail.
Learn More About Trail Safety
When you follow these important health and safety tips, you can enjoy the natural beauty of the Appalachian Trail here in the Smoky Mountains while maximizing your chances of a smooth hike. While these tips are especially essential for those hiking long portions of the trail, they are valuable for anyone heading out to explore the trail. If you want to find out more safety information and learn more about the Ridgerunners, check out some of the ATC’s resources for hiking the Appalachian Trail in the Smokies right here!
