This Land, Your Land

The Appalachian Trail Conservancy and the National Park Service have created an interactive map of the AT based on Google maps, that shows a variety of trail features.

In addition to Google's standard map, satellite and map/satellite viewing mode, the ATC's map - which includes the rest of the globe - can be viewed as a terrain map and as a USGS topography map. (Topo information is confined to the U.S.)

With a click of the mouse, users can bring up trail shelter locations, which with another click include a photo, capacity and amenities; plus parking and scenic vistas, which also include photos.

There are about 300 miles of the 2,181-mile Appalachian National Scenic Trail in North Carolina or along the North Carolina/Tennessee border.

Unlike Google maps, the ATC map does not readily create emailable links or code for embedding portions of the map.

"While useful, this map is for general reference purposes only and not intended to replace the more comprehensive and accurate A.T. printed hiking maps, available from the ATC's Ultimate Trail Store," the ATC says.