NOBO

A NOBO (northbounder) is a hiker who travels from south to north on a long-distance trail, particularly on major trails like the Appalachian Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, or Continental Divide Trail. This directional terminology helps identify a hiker's planned route and timing, as NOBOs typically start their thru-hikes in spring at the southern terminus to follow favorable weather patterns northward. The term is commonly used in trail communities and logistics planning, with NOBOs often forming informal groups or "trail families" as they encounter other hikers traveling in the same direction at similar paces.