Episode Five: Halfway There

 Coming soon! This episode will be available on July 30th, 2025.

As Matt and Candy reach Harper’s Ferry, known as the psychological mid-point of a thru-hike, we explore how the trail went from simple footpath to a uniquely shaped National Park. The AT’s history is also a history of racial segregation, and we talk to historians and modern hiking guides who are using the trail to teach about the underground railroad.

This episode’s guests:

  • Sandra Marra

    President and CEO of the Appalachian Trail Conservancy

  • Philip D'Anieri

    Author of “The Appalachian Trail: A Biography”

  • Anthony Cohen

    Historian, founder of the Menare Foundation

  • Brittany Leavitt

    CEO of Brown Girls Climb

  • Mills Kelly

    Emeritus Professor of History at George Mason University

Chili Pepper Woman crossing into West Virginia.

Chili Pepper Woman crossing into West Virginia.

The AT enters the historic town of Harper's Ferry.

The AT enters the historic town of Harper's Ferry.

HQ for the Appalachian Trail Conservancy.

HQ for the Appalachian Trail Conservancy.

The AT crosses a number of railroad lines in Pennsylvania.

The AT crosses a number of railroad lines in Pennsylvania.

Episode Credits:

Produced by: The Wild Lens Collective in partnership with New Hampshire Public Radio

With Support from: Big Agnes

Producers: Matthew Podolsky, Taylor Quimby

Promotion/Social Media: Hannah Mulvany

Music by: Blue Dot Sessions