Have you heard about Nettles (not John Nettles of Midsomer Murders fame), but the plants found in the woods sometimes called "Screaming Nettles."
Can you imagine walking through this wearing shorts? Well, we did and it was not pleasant. (1974 photo is by Ralph Ferrusi). See the trail blaze in the background?
This problem of vegetation is unique in the southern AT, since plants do not grow as quickly in the north. This creates an entirely new approach to trail maintenance. Read about this and other great information in Thomas R. Johnson's (2021) book called "From Dream to Realty: History of the Appalachian Trail." This book is a 10/10!! See page 107 for the plant growth issue.
This is a must read for anyone interested in our loved AT.
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