Blog

The Appalachian Trail truly intrigues me.  This 2,200 mile trek between Georgia and Maine is said to be the longest hiking trail in the world. An estimated 2 million people per year hiking parts of it! Apparently it was built between 1921 and 1937....and it still vital today. 

Why does it intrigue me?  I'm not completely sure! There are endless hiking paths throughout the world. However, there is a degree of magic when you say "Appalachian Trail"...a culture emerges.  There are elite "thru hikers" that go from one end to another over months of arduous travel. Another group will hike sections at a time to total the full trail.  Countless others will just enjoy a simple afternoon hike or several days camping.  

Over 80 years have passed since it's completion.  When I think of the history that has occurred in that 80 years...it is staggering!  Technology has exploded, 6 o'clock Walter Cronkite to 24 hours news channel, 5 wars, space exploration, vinyl to iTunes...the list is endless!  Yet through all of these changes and 80+ years--2 million people a year continue to flock to the longest hiking path in the world--absolute simplicity (...and poor phone signals).  I love it!

Whether a brief escape to nature or monumental journey the  call of the trail soothes the soul for so many. I painted the picture of the trail symbol because the simple, primitive symbol guides so many through their journey or quickly lets the mind escape to a happy place.  These days when people are "triggered" by just about anything--the trail has remained pure. There are no tolls, entry fees, rental's along the way, bill boards...just an occasional trail symbol to direct and a few rustic shelters.

I'm not sure I would have ever been able to thru hike. I'm older now, out of shape, working too many hours, arthritis, and quite afraid of the dark...but I still love the magic it creates.  I'm beginning to appreciate the meditative role art can play.  Simply gazing at the this simple painting and the symbol on the tree...I can almost hear the birds and feel the fresh air.  A little escape from our complex world to the timeless Appalachian Trail.