18: Trail Lovers #4: Appalachian National Scenic Trail “The AT” - A Footpath for the People

Today, we’re heading to Appalachia to explore the most famous and well marked hiking trail in the world, the AT.  We work through a Junior Ranger activity together and explore the natural beauty of the Appalachian Mountains, the formation and geological history of the area, its Indigenous heritage, the diverse plants and animals that inhabit the area, the park's establishment as a national scenic trail, and how to start preparing for an AT thru-hike, section hike, or day hike.  Tune in to learn about a yo-yo hike, a flip-flop hike, and so many other fun and interesting facts about the AT.

Junior Rangers are explorers, learning all about the park’s ecosystems, plants and animals, and how to protect nature.  The Junior Ranger program is not just for kids; it's for the young, and the young at heart!

Email:  [e-mail] Instagram:  @NPJRPodcast 

A Special Thanks to: the Appalachian Trail Conservancy, the NPS Appalachian National Scenic Trail, the AT community & all of the volunteers, and my uncle, Brad, for the fun & interesting facts as I was preparing this episode, the 'hike' down memory lane, and reigniting my hope to one day hike the AT!

Source:  https://appalachiantrail.org/ , https://www.nps.gov/appa/index.htm 

Benton MacKaye’s Story: https://appalachiantrail.org/official-blog/from-trauma-to-dream/ 

Trail Trivia Sound Effect by Justin & Robin

Music by FASSounds on Pixabay

Wood Burning in Fire Sound Effect by FTUS on Uppbeat