Wildflowers of the Appalachian Trail

Whether you are a weekend hiker, a long-distance trekker, a trained naturalist, or a wildflower enthusiast, Wildflowers of the Appalachian Trail is a necessary companion for anyone interested in the flora of the East's longest trail. Along with elegant, large-format photographs, this book contains information on the flower color, bloom season, size, and range of nearly 100 species. Also included are citations to more than 60 additional species, with respect to their distinguishing features.

Yet this is no ordinary field guide. In addition to being able to identify a particular flower, you will also learn the story behind its name, the fascinating role it has played through history, and its value in folkloric and modern medicine. You will discover that Skunk Cabbage produces its own heat (often melting snow and ice around it) and that Bloodroot contains an anti-plaque agent used in toothpastes and mouthwashes. Unlike any other resource, this book notes specific sites along the Appalachian Trail where flower species may be seen; each site mentioned can be found in the index of its respective Appalachian Trail Guide.

Leonard M. Adkins, profiled by Backpacker magazine, and referred to as 'The Habitual Hiker,' has hiked more than 19,000 miles exploring the back-country areas of the U.S., Canada, Europe, and the Caribbean. He lives in Catawba, VA.

Joe Cook and Monica Cook are both avid hikers of the Appalachian Trail. A former newspaper photographer, Joe displays his work in galleries and art shows throughout the Southeast. Joe and Monica are co-authors of River Song: A Journey Down the Chattahoochee and Apalachicola Rivers. Joe and Monica live in Georgia.