Building a Long-Distance Hiking Trail Across the Middle East
A case study for examining the challenges and potential of long-distance hiking trails in a region affected by political instability.
Presenters: David Landis, Regional Director, Abraham Path Initiative; Shay Rabineau, Trail Research Consultant, Abraham Path Initiative
Since ancient times, religious pilgrims have crisscrossed the Middle East on foot. Today, tourists of all sorts visit the holy sites and ancient ruins of the Eastern Mediterranean, and demand for hiking is growing as Americans and Europeans learn about routes like the Lebanon Mountain Trail and the Israel National Trail. This session uses the Abraham Path, designated the world’s best new trail in 2014 by National Geographic Traveler, as a case study for examining the challenges and potential of long-distance hiking trails in a region affected by political instability. How do trail-building, waymarking, and infrastructure development in the Middle East compare with their American counterparts? What opportunities exist for American trail builders to contribute to the development of hiking tourism in the Middle East? How can lessons learned overseas improve trails in the US?
2020 Annual CRT Achievement Awards
The Coalition for Recreational Trails is pleased to announce the winners for the 2020 Tom Petri Annual Achievement Awards in recognition of outstanding use of Recreational Trails Program (RTP) funds.
Gwinnett Countywide Trails Master Plan
Gwinnett County is currently the second most populous county in Georgia with more than 936,000 residents and also has a minority-majority population. By 2050, estimates project Gwinnett could grow to as many as 1.5 million residents, making it the most populated county in the state.
Book Review: "Walks of a Lifetime in America’s National Parks"
American Trails contributor Sam Demas reviews "Walks of a Lifetime in America’s National Parks" by Robert and Martha Manning
Ultimate Holiday Gift Guide for Outdoor Lovers
Looking for the perfect gift for an outdoor enthusiast (including yourself)? Check out our guide for amazing gifts in every price range and for every kind of trail lover.
