The Appalachian Trail extends for 2168 miles from Springer Mntn, GA to Katahdin, ME.  The entire trail runs through protected land or right-of ways.   At right, you can see the trail as it winds its way along the Appalachian Mountain Chain and the east coast of the US.

Trail links:

Andrew Skurka's site...This guy is hardcore, man

The ATC...The Appalachian Trail Conference

The AT Home Page...A great resource

Thru-Hiker...a great link to average temps on the trail