Whitney Wallace: North Carolina Day Hiking for Every Body

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Mark Perzel talks with author Whitney Harris Wallace about her book, "North Carolina Day Hiking for Every Body: What to Know and Where to Go from the Blue Ridge to the Beaches." Turns out, hiking doesn’t have to involve extreme gear, expert knowledge, or a personality change. They get into what actually counts as a hike, how to get started without overcomplicating it, and a few great places to wander around North Carolina. Worth a listen if you’ve ever thought, “I should get outside more,” and then… didn’t.

LISTENER DISCOUNT CODE: Receive a 25% discount on this title when purchased from McFarland's website by using the code BESTPART at checkout: mcfarlandbooks.com/product/north-carolina-day-hiking-for-every-body

FEATURED TITLE: North Carolina Day Hiking for Every Body: What to Know and Where to Go from the Blue Ridge to the Beaches. McFarland, softcover (2026) ISBN: 9781476697253 mcfarlandbooks.com/product/north-carolina-day-hiking-for-every-body

BOOK DESCRIPTION: Blending practical advice, personal stories and historical context, this book highlights North Carolina trails suitable for diverse bodies, experience levels, and abilities—encouraging those who may not see themselves as typical hikers to find their home on the trail. Alongside detailed tips on safety, preparation, and environmental stewardship, the book also emphasizes the benefits of spending time outdoors.

From serene coastal paths to shaded mountain trails, hikers are invited to slow down, savor the moment, and find calm and connection in the Tar Heel State’s natural spaces. Whether you are a longtime hiker or are just starting out, this guide encourages everyone to step outside and experience North Carolina’s outdoor delights in a whole new way.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Whitney Harris Wallace has lived, and hiked, throughout the state. She is a certified Wilderness First Responder and Forest Therapy Guide. She has also completed the Associate in Wilderness Medicine program through the University of Utah School of Medicine. She lives in Lexington, North Carolina.

OTHER BOOKS BY WHITNEY

Mama's Quilt and Blizzard the White River Otter by Don Harris, illustrated by Whitney Harris Wallace. Warren Publishing, hardcover. Warren Publishing, hardcover www.warrenpublishing.net/store/p116/Mama%27s_Quilt_and_Blizzard_the_White_River_Otter_by_Don_Harris-Hardcover.html

ABOUT MCFARLAND: McFarland, a leading independent publisher of academic and general-interest nonfiction books, is perhaps best known for the serious treatment of popular culture. Founded in 1979, McFarland is recognized among authors and readers as adventurous in range and a reliable source of worthy books that other publishers overlook. They have around 8,000 unique works for sale and publish about 350 new titles a year. Meeting high library standards has been a major focus since the company began, and many McFarland books have received awards from the academic-oriented (Choice Outstanding Academic Title, ALA Outstanding Reference Work) to the mainstream (Hugo, Edgar, Stoker, and Eisner, among others). mcfarlandbooks.com

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