GARDNERS, PA (April 24, 2012) - Hiking the 2000 plus miles of the Appalachian Trail from Maine to Georgia is an accomplishment for some, but a dream or curiosity for many, many more. The first in a series of programs reviewing the trail in each of the 14 states that it crosses will be presented on Sunday, May 6, at 2 p.m. at the Ironmaster's Mansion in Pine Grove State Park in Cumberland County.

"We are really excited about this year's lineup of programs that will be offered from May through the first Sunday in September," said Gwen Loose, program chair for the Appalachian Trail Museum Society – sponsor of the programs. "The variety will include something for almost everyone, from the experienced to the novice hiker and from youngsters to grandparents."

The "Georgia on My Mind" program on May 6 will focus on the Appalachian Trail experience through Georgia where Springer Mountain is the starting point for northbound Appalachian Trail journeys and where the trail ends for south-bounders. The trail's history, highlights and natural beauty in the Peach State will be discussed by Lorrie Preston, Appalachian Trail section-hiker and Appalachian Trail Museum volunteer. She also will explain how to section-hike the Appalachian Trail through Georgia in one week, using just a day pack.

Loose said other programs during the spring and summer will include: (note to editor – see accompanying list of programs for 2012)

• Story-telling, songs and activities for children

• Appalachian Trail history

• Arts and crafts on the Appalachian Trail

• Natural features of the Appalachian Trail

• Trail maintenance techniques

• Hiker skills, equipment and safety

• Pioneer hiker profiles and why they are important

• First person hiking experiences and accomplishments

All programs will begin at 2 pm on Sundays at the Appalachian Trail Museum unless otherwise announced.

Programs topics may be submitted to info@atmuseum.org for consideration. Anyone interested in being a program leader or an Appalachian Trail Museum volunteer may contact atmuseumgreeters@gmail.com or call 717-486-4083.

Located in a 200-year-old, restored grist mill in historic Pine Grove Furnace State Park and at the midway point of the 2,184-mile-long Appalachian Trail, the museum is across from the Pine Grove General Store on Pennsylvania Route 233 in Cumberland County.