Concealed Carry on the Appalachian Trail

After a recent reported threat of a machete-wielding-man traveling the Appalachian Trail turned out to be false, concerned travelers wanted to know how they could carry guns to protect themselves along the famous pathway.

 The Appalachian Trail extends across 14 states from Georgia to Maine, and roughly 2,200 miles. Between eight national forests and two national parks, hikers are bound to encounter their fair share of hazards.

 For gun owners, it is important to know that each state has different gun laws and may or may not accept the concealed carry license or permit (CCL) of another state. For residents of Tennessee, Georgia, North Carolina, Virginia, West Virginia, Pennsylvania, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine accept Tennessee’s permit. States where the permit is not recognized include Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Connecticut and Massachusetts.

 In addition to being aware of gun laws on a state-by-state basis, gun owners would be wise to find out before visiting National Parks which have their own rules as well. For example, the Great Smokey Mountains National Park and Cherokee National Forest allow you to carry a concealed weapon as long as you have not been convicted of a felony and have a recognized permit.

Travelers interested in taking their guns with them should do their research into each state about the gun laws and requirements before heading out on trips with the intent to carry for the purpose of self-defense.