Alabamian becomes oldest to complete the Appalachian Trail, includes Pinhoti Trail in historic trek

He did it. This weekend, Alabamian Nimblewell Nomad became the oldest person to finish the Appalachian Trail at 83 years old.

Appalachian Trail and Flagg Mountain

The legendary and beloved hiker not only finished the world famous 2,193-mile Appalachian Trail (AT), he began his trek at Flagg Mountain, the terminus of the Pinhoti Trail, where the Southern Appalachian mountains actually begin.

A fun fact— Nimblewell Nomad — which is his trail name (his legal name is M.J. “Sunny” Eberhart) is the caretaker at Coosa County, Alabama’s Flagg Mountain in the Weogufka State Forest. Many have advocated over the years, the Southern end of the AT should begin there instead of  Springer Mountain in North Georgia.

Hero in Alabama Hiking Community

Recently featured in the Alabama Rivers Alliance Southern Exposure short film documentary “The Last Last Hike”, Nimblewell is a hero within the Alabama hiking community.  He is only one of two people to have finished all 11 National Scenic Trails, which include the Pacific Crest and Continental Divide trails. His book — “10 Million Steps” about his journey on Eastern Continental Trail is a “must read’ ‘ for long distance hikers and nature lovers alike.

• 

• 

. 

“Sunny Eberhart is an inspiration to me daily,” said Maggie Johnston, Executive Director of Wild Alabama, who actually joined Nimblewell on the AT trek. “His longtime friendship has brought me joy and hope for the future many times. On tough days this thought comes to my mind… “wonder what obstacles Nimblewill is facing today?” I look forward to seeing him back home at Flagg Mountain, Alabama soon.”

Welcome Home Party

On November 21st, Wild Alabama and the Alabama Hiking Trail Society are throwing a Welcome Home party for Nimblewell at Flagg Mountain. The public is welcome.

Here are the details.

Have you hiked the Pinhoti? Appalachian Trail? Tell us your favorite trails and tag The Bama Buzz on social media