Courtesy of Appalachian History
Today, or what is left of it, is the 40th anniversary of the National Trails System Act of 1968. The act made possible a system of national trails, including National Scenic Trails, National Recreation Trails, and a series of connecting and side trails. It also formally established and promoted the Appalachian Trail, the Pacific Crest Trail and The Continental Divide Trail, which was added about 10 years later.
For me, Appalachia will be forever inextricably linked to the notion of worker’s rights – something for which I have always had a passion (remember, I’m the daughter of a union man). This is due to my participation in Project Appalachia or The Appalachian Experience, where I spent time in Hazard, KY and Neon, KY helping to build new homes for families. Hiking and exploring the areas was always a part of the service immersion trip, so ever since I have had a fascination with and admiration for those that have hiked the entire Appalachian Trail – though I have never actually met someone who has done it.
On a side note, because I just watched the Vice Presidential debate, and therefore can’t not mention politics right now, find out where the Mine workers of Appalachia stand on the election.
I didn’t realize the ATs anniversary was this week.
We managed to set foot on the trail a few years back, last time we were in northern New England, just to say we did. We aren’t huge hikers, and real flatlanders to boot, but I’ve always thought it would be great to spend at least a couple of days exploring out on the trail.
[...] And Transient Travels pays homage to the ghost of Applachain Trail’s past. [Transient Travels] [...]