Momentum on the ADT: Dual-Directional Navigation, New Hikers, and Fresh Waypoints
Spring brings navigation improvements, new westbound hikers, and fresh Maryland waypoints to the American Discovery Trail. Join Hiking America's growing ADT community!
Dual-Directional Navigation Update
We've made solid progress on our Dual-Directional navigation update, with nearly one-third of our Gaia GPS data now converted from Eastbound-only to fully Dual-Directional.
Our guides are keeping pace, too—over 80% have been converted, ensuring that current hikers and those about to start have reliable resources available. We're focusing on staying ahead of hikers on the trail in the coming weeks, with more updates rolling out soon. Check out the FREE Delaware State Guide!
This means better navigation for hikers heading both ways on the American Discovery Trail. Best news yet - the entire Eastern section is now completely updated!
New Hiker Hits the Trail
Spring brings new hikers to the ADT, and this week, another reached Cape Henlopen, Delaware, to begin their westbound journey. "SaunterinSteve" Gefell from New York joined the Class of 2025 and officially started his trek across the country this week.
In a nice bit of trail serendipity, Steve ran into fellow ADT hikers Rhiis and Sara, who are into the second week of their journey. These chance encounters on the trail remind us of the special community the ADT creates.
With more hikers expected to start in the coming weeks, this could shape up to be a strong westbound season.
New Waypoints for Delaware & Maryland Hikers
Thanks to Rhiis and Sara, we've added more than a dozen new waypoints for services in Delaware and Eastern Maryland. These updates make a real difference—whether finding a place to sit, resupply points, overnight options, or the next water source.
These improvements are making the ADT more accessible, safer, and easier to navigate. The ADT is truly a living trail, with contributions from hikers helping it evolve each season.
Looking Ahead
With updates continuing and more hikers on the trail, there's great energy around the ADT right now. We're steadily improving GPS data, adding waypoints, and refining turn-by-turn guidance to make coast-to-coast hiking more straightforward.
Let us know if you're already hiking or preparing for your ADT adventure! We value your experiences and trail updates. And if you're following along from home, stay tuned—there's plenty more to come.
Hike Your Hike - John.
Hiking America Patch - $10 - Free Shipping!
Show your Hiking America pride with our durable 3" embroidered patch. Made from high-quality twill and threads, this patch is built to endure the rigors of the trail whether you're adding it to your pack, jacket, or gear.
