It’s outrageous, but planning a 2,100 mile hike along the Appalachian Trail is easier than most things that you do.

Step 1: Buy the AT Guide: I recommend getting it loose-leaf. Take out the first quarter, give the rest to a friend to mail to you when you need it.

Step 2: Buy a plane ticket to Altlanta, Georgia.

Step 3: Reserve a shuttle to the trailhead.

Step 4: Buy 2-4 days of food. I bought two lunches, two breakfasts and two dinners.

Step 5: Pack your pack and go!