Appalachian Impressions

Throughout the month of October the Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC) will be showcasing the film Appalachian Impressions in 15 cities nationwide, as part of their 2013 membership drive, called A Journey of 2,000 Miles: the Appalachian Trail. The organization has set a goal to gain the support of 2,180 new members, one new member for each mile of the Appalachian Trail (A.T.).

Appalachian Impressions is an epic story about hiking the Appalachian Trail from Georgia to Maine. The program takes viewers on a six-month, 2,180-mile journey along the famous long-distance hiking trail in the world. Participants will hear the stories from hikers who have embarked on this trek and experience the thrills and challenges of daily life on the Trail. The film covers all fourteen states, the changing of the seasons, footwear, food, shelters, volunteer trail crews, and Leave No Trace Ethics. It captures the true essence of this historic pathway, its interesting characters, beautiful scenery and the generous spirit found in small town America.

Each city will feature several guest speakers including authors, volunteers, key members of the A.T. community, and 2,000-milers (those who have hiked the entire A.T.). Some guest speakers include Richard Judy, thru-hiker and author of THRU – A Love Story; Susan Letcher, 2,000-miler and author of The Barefoot Sisters: Southbound; Captain Sean Gobin, co-founder of Warrior Hike & the Walk off the War Program; Michelle Pugh, thru-hiker and author of Love at First Hike: A Memoir about Love & Triumph on the Appalachian Trail; and Ron Tipton executive director/CEO of the ATC.

Included on the tour is Cincinnati, Atlanta, Charlotte, Raleigh, Hot Springs and Franklin NC, and Erwin, TN, among other towns along the east coast.

Show participants will receive a one-year membership to the ATC. They will also have the chance to win cool prizes such as an ATC ENOTM Hammock and a Gregory Backpack.

For more information, as well as a full list of dates, locations and times, please click here.

Here's the trailer from the film:




Jeff
Hiking in the Smokies