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Appalachian National Scenic Trail

National Parks Traveler Episode 30: Hiker Trash, Fishing Great Smoky, "Acting" Directors

"Hiker Trash," a new book that examines hiker life along the Appalachian Trail through the sketches of a graphic artist, is the topic of our interview with author Sarah Kaizar. We also examine the fisheries of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and comment on the long-running vacancy of a permanent director of the National Park Service.

Traveler Special Report: Private Philanthropy Fills The Gaps Of Deferred Maintenance

“How we treat our land, how we build upon it, how we act toward our air and water, will in the long run tell what kind of people we really are.” These words, spoken by philanthropist Laurance S. Rockefeller, reflect the passion that philanthropists large and small exhibit when they invest in the National Park System. Whether the Congress as a whole embraces that passion remains to be seen.

New Long-Distance Trail Could Be In The Offing For Hikers With Time On Their Hands

For hikers with an inordinate amount of time on their hands, good feet and extra boots, a trail stretching nearly 7,000 miles and meandering through 21 states might soon be ready for them. Put another way, you could walk through the woods and across the prairies from North Dakota to Georgia.

Trails Into History: Walk Into The Past On A National Historic Trail

It was 50 years ago that the National Trails System was designated. Today there are 30 trails under that designation, and they range from the path followed by Lewis and Clark into history to the Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail. Choose any one of the 19 National Historic Trails and you can walk, or paddle, into history.

Long-Distance Trails For Your Consideration

Since 1966, national scenic and historic trails have been an American priority. They traverse mountains, canyons, forests, and grasslands across the country, crossing creeks and rivers and skirting lakes. These narrow corridors through the wilderness provide recreation and protect historic resources while conserving natural features. There are many physical, emotional, and logistical requirements for these trips, and winter is the perfect season to get in shape and plan for a long walk. Here’s a quick look at a few of these trails to help you plan a trip.

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