A cozy place to .... in the woods!

Okay, lets get down to the nitty-gritty about backpacking on the Appalachian Trail (A.T.) – doing your “business.” While there are whole books written on how to potty in the woods, the A.T. offers an additional option, the moldering privy. They provide modesty, shelter from rain, and seat positioned over a pile of composting…well you get it… One thing you won’t find is toilet paper, make sure to pack your own or hope you choose the right leaves.

Many shelters along the A.T. have privies to reduce the human impact on the area and some are quite creative. This photo is of a simple model found in North Carolina. For a fun take on A.T. privies, check out these two posts by crafty bloggers: Appalachian Trail Hike: Privy Survival and Appalachian Trail – The Toilets – Trail Privies.