Connecting the trail to the Indigenous history of western North Carolina, the long military presence near the Carolina coast, and more, Barker offers a new way to understand and appreciate not only the natural beauty of North Carolina but also its people and history. Dedicated long-distance hikers and day-trippers alike will value and enjoy this armchair guide, which places prominent natural features of the trail in context, and introduces hikers to nearby attractions, cultural heritage sites and trail towns. Includes abundant illustrations with over 50 color photographs and maps for each of the MST’s 19 segments. Paperback, 288 pages, $28; e-book, $14.99 (prices may vary by retailer).