Not for the light-hearted or weekend warrior, the mighty Appalachian Trail will give you a challenge like nowhere else above 3,000 feet. Originally cleared from 1921 to 1937, the AT was designated the first National Scenic Trail in 1968 by President Johnson and now stretches its raggedy arms wide across the eastern seaboard of America. Day-runners should start on a short access trail like Andrews Cove, Jarrad Gap, or Byron Herbert Reece, which will lead directly to the Appalachian in two miles or less. Spend your day racing over rocks and roots through alpine Georgia, then overnight in one of the trail's many shelters. If speed isn't your bag, hike the trail at your leisure with a backpack, staying at the regularly located overnight shelters. It's a great way to soak up the wonders of nature on Georgia's strip of the Appalachian Trail.