A comprehensive naturalist's guide to the Appalachian Trail, the Visitor's Companion contains all the essential information about the AT - from the trail's fascinating history to detailed information on the geology, trees, flowers, birds, amphibians, reptiles, and mammals of the Appalachian Mountains. Author Leonard M. Adkins even shares suggested hikes. With this guide in hand on the trail, you'll be able to identify certain flowers - and even know how they reproduce and why they grow in select areas. You'll recognize piles of stone as reminders of days gone by. Markings in the mud will become signs of nearby wildlife and the relation of trees to other types of plants will become clear. After reading this guide, you'll gain a greater appreciation and knowledge of this spectacular national treasure and its importance in preserving the natural world. (6 x 9, 240 pages, b&w photos, charts, illustrations).