MARYVILLE, Tenn. (AP) -- National Park officials said they’re expecting a spike in traffic along the Appalachian Trail after the release next month of a Hollywood film about two hikers who attempt to conquer the 2,190-mile route.
The Daily Times in Maryville reported Great Smoky Mountains National Park officials saw a 60 percent increase in traffic in the area after the book, "A Walk in the Woods: Rediscovering America on The Appalachian Trail," was published. The movie has been based on the 1998 book and stars Robert Redford and Nick Nolte.
Christine Hoyer, backcountry management specialist for the park, said officials knew the movie was coming. She said the land managers with responsibility for The Appalachian Trail have been working with The Appalachian Trail Conservancy to deal with the expected increase in traffic.
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