On October 2, 2023, Google Doodle celebrated the world’s longest pedestrian-only trail, the Appalachian Trail.
The Appalachian Trail (AT) is a hiking trail in the eastern United States. It is the longest hiking trail in the world just for hiking. The hiking trail spans 14 US states and covers an area of 2,190 miles.
The trail is managed by the National Park Service, the US Forest Service, the Appalachian Trail Conservancy, and many other state agencies and volunteers.
Google Doodle mentions: “Today’s slideshow Doodle celebrates the Appalachian Trail — click the Doodle to explore the 2,190-mile hiking trail that spans 14 US states! The Appalachian Trail is the longest hiking trail in the world.”
Source: Google Doodle
What is the history of the Appalachian Trail?
The Appalachian Trail was founded in 1921 by Benton MacKaye, a forester and conservationist. MacKaye envisioned a trail that would run from Maine to Georgia, giving people a place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and reconnect with nature.
The AT was completed in 1937 and has been a popular destination for hikers ever since.
The Appalachian Trail Conservancy states: “Completed in 1937, the AT is a unit of the National Park System. It is managed by a unique public-private partnership led by the Appalachian Trail Conservancy.”
In 1968, President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the National Trail System Act, which designated the Appalachian Trail as one of the first National Scenic Trails and recognized it as federal land. This was a big turning point for AT,
How many people visit the track?
Every year, more than 3 million people visit the AT, and around 3,000 people attempt to hike the entire trail from end to end.
“More than 3 million people visit the Trail each year, and more than 3,000 people attempt to “hike” the entire hiking trail in one year. People from all over the world are drawn to AT for various reasons, such as reconnecting with nature, escaping the stress of city life, meeting new people or deepening old friendships or experiencing a simpler life,” says the Appalachian Trail Conservancy.
The AT is a challenging trail, but it is also rewarding. Hikers on the AT experience a variety of landscapes, including forests, mountains, rivers and valleys. They also have the opportunity to see a variety of wildlife, including deer, bears and moose.
What is the purpose of the Appalachian Trail?
The Appalachian Trail serves a number of purposes, including:
- Recreation: The AT is a popular destination for hikers, backpackers, and campers. It offers a variety of landscapes to experience, including forests, mountains, rivers and valleys.
- Conservation: AT helps protect corridors of land along the Appalachian Mountains. This country is home to a variety of plants and animals, including many endangered species.
- Education: The AT can be a valuable educational experience for hikers. Hikers can learn about the history and culture of the Appalachian region, as well as the natural environment.
- Personal Development: The AT can be a challenging trail, but it is also rewarding. Hikers on the AT often experience a sense of personal growth and accomplishment.
AT is a national treasure and a testament to the importance of conservation and outdoor recreation. It is a place where people can come together to experience the beauty of nature and the challenge of hiking through the Appalachian Mountains.
Categories: Trends
Source: HIS Education