News: 5 hikers rescued on Appalachian Trail near the North Carolina-Tennessee state line

The Citizen Times has the full story on a group of Appalachian Trail hikers that were rescued earlier this week from the Walnut Gap shelter.  It's a good reminder at just how quickly conditions can change on the Appalachian Trail or on any trail really, especially at higher elevations, whether you are in the southern United States, the Northeast or anywhere else.

Read the full story at the Citizen Times

You should always be prepared for changing conditions and make sure you carry rain gear and enough clothing to keep yourself warm in the changing conditions.  It also helps to make sure you have the proper gear including shelter and sleeping bags.

Thankfully this story had a happy ending, but in situations like this, things can quickly go from bad to worse when you aren't properly prepared.

For more info on being properly dressed for a hike, check out our guide to Hiking Apparel and Clothing.